Aspire, a program of Massachusetts General Hospital, is seeking an experienced Group Specialist to lead social skills groups for afternoon/evening weekday and Saturday/Sunday groups of children and teens with autism spectrum disorder levels 1 and 2 and related profiles during the academic year (September thru May). This individual will also hold a leadership position during the summer therapeutic program for children, taking place at Hale Reservation in Westwood, MA. Group Specialist will be trained to use the Aspire intervention model that focuses on teaching increased self-awareness, social competency, and stress management skills.
The Group Specialist is responsible for leading up to 5-8 groups each semester, with each group comprised of 8-12 weekly sessions that include 4-8 participants. In collaboration with an Aspire co-leader, the responsibilities of the position include: developing structured activities and lesson plans for each session; supporting participants to engage in group activities; implementing interventions, supports, and strategies for group participants; regular communication with families and participants between sessions; maintaining accurate timekeeping and record keeping; and complying with program policies and procedures. The Group Specialist must be willing to work closely as part of a team and collaboratively with others.
Prior experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum is required and the position requires a commitment to lead the group(s) for all sessions during the semester to ensure structure and consistency for participants. Primary responsibilities will be Saturday and Sunday groups with option for leading groups early evenings during the week.
Education
Bachelor's Degree Related Field of Study required or Master's Degree Related Field of Study preferred
Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree?
No Responsibilities: The responsibilities will be 80% focused on direct service leading groups.
- Attend all scheduled group sessions. Staff will be provided with planning and supervision time before and after scheduled group sessions. Contact your Program Manager by no later than 7:00 am the day of the group if you are sick and unable to work.
- Follow Program Behavioral Management and Discipline Guidelines. Apply them in a calm, positive, controlled manner.
- Collaborate with staff to develop and implement therapeutic interventions, e.g. social stories, behavior support plans, etc. Collaborate with staff in the planning and presentation of such lessons.
- In collaboration with the participant and key stakeholders, design clear and appropriate goals for participants. Periodically review goals, assess progress, and design interventions to foster further growth.
- Maintain rules of confidentiality in all communications.
- Complete evaluation forms, incident reports, end-of-program reports, and other assigned paperwork in a timely manner.
- Respect the rules and regulations set forth by collaborating agencies; this includes work sites, Hale Reservation and other community spaces that Aspire shares.
- Maintain the health and safety of program participants and staff at all times.
- Maintain the appropriate records and documentation related to the Policies and Procedures of Aspire.
- Complete EPIC training and utilize EPIC as directed for documentation and communication.
- Collaborate with Aspire Administration to problem-solve programmatic issues.
- Communicate with Program Manager to ensure that each group has an adequate schedule and proper support for their participants.
- Model a positive, centered, and non-judgmental communication style with both participants and staff.
- Work to build positive relationships with participants and staff.
- Communicate significant participant behavioral concerns with Program Manager immediately.
- Ensure that all structured behavior support plans are consistent with Aspire policies and procedures as well as Aspire's theoretical and therapeutic models.
- Work collaboratively with area agencies that are involved with Aspire to ensure Aspire's on-going positive relationships with the community including School Personnel, MGH Staff, Transportation Personnel, Dept of Public Health, Office of Child Care Services, Community Programs, etc.
- Assist with intake process including participant application review and supporting in-person individual and group interviews.
Physical Requirements
Standing Frequently (34-66%) Walking Frequently (34-66%) Sitting Occasionally (3-33%) Lifting Frequently (34-66%) 35lbs+ (w/assisted device) Carrying Frequently (34-66%) 20lbs - 35lbs Pushing Occasionally (3-33%) Pulling Occasionally (3-33%) Climbing Rarely (Less than 2%) Balancing Frequently (34-66%) Stooping Occasionally (3-33%) Kneeling Occasionally (3-33%) Crouching Occasionally (3-33%) Crawling Rarely (Less than 2%) Reaching Frequently (34-66%) Gross Manipulation (Handling) Frequently (34-66%) Fine Manipulation (Fingering) Frequently (34-66%) Feeling Constantly (67-100%) Foot Use Rarely (Less than 2%) Vision - Far Constantly (67-100%) Vision - Near Constantly (67-100%) Talking Constantly (67-100%) Hearing Constantly (67-100%)
The General Hospital Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.
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Massachusetts General Hospital
May 02, 2025