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At Risk Youth Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Youth Specialist

Paola, KS · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

The Elizabeth Layton Center is seeking a Youth Specialist to join our CBS (Community Based Services ... Ability to relate and work creatively and energetically with consumers at risk of hospitalization

Youth Specialist

Paola, KS · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

The Elizabeth Layton Center is seeking a Youth Specialist to join our CBS (Community Based Services ... Ability to relate and work creatively and energetically with consumers at risk of hospitalization

Therapist, MST

Hays, KS · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist, MST

Hays, KS · On-site +1

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist, MST

Topeka, KS · On-site +1

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families, and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist I, MST

Salina, KS · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist I, MST

Salina, KS · On-site +1

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist, MST

Wichita, KS · On-site +1

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families, and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist, MST

Dodge City, KS · On-site +1

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families, and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist, MST

Dodge City, KS · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families, and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist, MST

Wichita, KS · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families, and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist I, MST

Hutchinson, KS · On-site +1

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families, and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist, MST

Dodge City, KS · On-site +1

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families, and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist, MST

Dodge City, KS · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families, and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist, MST

Dodge City, KS · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families, and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist I, MST

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families, and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

Therapist, MST

Dodge City, KS · On-site +1

$50K - $55K/yr

Provide direct therapeutic interventions to at-risk youth and their families, and collaborate with other key members. * Implement crisis management strategies as needed to address immediate safety ...

LPN CMC or CMK

Kansas City, KS · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Six months to 1-year related experience and/or training with mental health or at-risk youth (preferred). * Must be at least 21 years of age (required). Essential Functions: To perform this job ...

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Showing results 1-20

At Risk Youth information

See Kansas salary details

$12

$27

$66

How much do at risk youth jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for at risk youth in Kansas is $27.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $34.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are at-risk youth?

At-risk youth are young people who are considered to have a higher probability of facing negative outcomes due to various risk factors in their lives. These factors may include poverty, exposure to violence, family instability, substance abuse, academic challenges, or involvement with the juvenile justice system. Being 'at risk' does not guarantee negative outcomes, but it means these youth may need additional support, resources, and guidance to overcome barriers and reach their full potential.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working with at-risk youth, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals working with at-risk youth often encounter challenges such as building trust with individuals who may have experienced trauma, managing behavioral issues, and navigating complex family dynamics. Addressing these challenges requires strong communication skills, patience, and ongoing training in trauma-informed care. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including counselors, social workers, and educators—can provide comprehensive support and help professionals develop effective intervention strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a youth counselor working with at-risk youth, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Youth Counselor for at-risk youth, you need a background in psychology, social work, or counseling, often supported by a relevant degree and state licensure. Familiarity with case management software, behavioral assessment tools, and crisis intervention techniques is typically required. Outstanding soft skills include patience, active listening, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to build trust and rapport. These skills help counselors effectively support vulnerable youth, promote positive outcomes, and navigate challenging situations safely and ethically.

What is the difference between At Risk Youth vs Youth Counselor?

AspectAt Risk YouthYouth Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in youth workHigh school diploma; often requires certification or degree in counseling or social work
Work EnvironmentCommunity programs, schools, juvenile facilitiesSchools, community centers, counseling offices
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit organizations, government agencies, schoolsEducational institutions, mental health agencies, social services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

At Risk Youth refers to young individuals facing challenges such as poverty, family issues, or behavioral problems. Youth Counselors work directly with these youth to provide guidance, support, and intervention. While both roles focus on supporting youth, At Risk Youth is a demographic or target group, whereas Youth Counselor is a professional role aimed at assisting that group.

What are popular job titles related to At Risk Youth jobs in Kansas?

For At Risk Youth jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Kansas are hiring for At Risk Youth jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most At Risk Youth job openings:

Infographic showing various At Risk Youth job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,275 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

The Elizabeth Layton Center is seeking a Youth Specialist to join our CBS (Community Based Services) team in Paola, KS. If you thrive in a vibrant, supportive, and inclusive work environment, this is the opportunity you've been looking for!
Who we are:
Elizabeth Layton Center (ELC) is honored to be designated a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), with locations in Ottawa and Paola, KS. CCBHCs offer a model of care focused on accessible and integrated behavioral health services. Our vision is to be recognized as the provider of choice for coordinated physical and behavioral health services in the communities we serve. ELC specializes in working with underserved populations to meet the growing needs unique to their situation and life experiences.
What we offer:
  • Competitive compensation
  • A comprehensive benefits package
  • Generous paid time off
  • Wellness resources to support your well-being
  • A collaborative, supportive team environment
  • Ongoing opportunities for professional growth
  • A healthy work-life balance

Job Summary:
The Youth Specialist will provide supervision and supportive services to youth diagnosed with severe emotional disturbance. The incumbent, through supervision and direction, will assist the youth in developing skills. When working with youth, the majority of the time will be spent providing individual or psychosocial group services to the youth. The incumbent, through supervision and direction of a licensed and credentialed QMHP, will assist consumers by providing information, education, and training to build knowledge, develop skills, and change attitudes with a goal of increasing the consumer's independence, productivity, self-determination, integration, and inclusion in the community. The majority of the Youth Specialist's time will be spent providing services to consumers in schools, their homes, the center, and other community settings. The position reports directly to the CBS Coordinator.
Major Job Responsibilities:
  • Provides one to one psychosocial rehabilitation services for youth
  • Assists in developing and providing structured psychosocial group activities
  • Supports personal care goals and overall treatment plan of specific youth
  • Organizes program activities and functions
  • Maintains a safe and productive environment during time spent in attendance of consumers
  • Consults with other mental health staff and works co-jointly as indicated
  • May provide transportation to and from various program activities (must maintain a good driving record)
  • Assists in developing and providing structured activities to include attendant care, psychosocial group activities and individual community support
  • Maintains a safe and productive environment during time spent in attendance of consumers
  • Maintains appropriate records for reporting, evaluation, accounting, and clinical purposes
  • Meets deadlines for daily paperwork and reports
  • Provides quality documentation
  • Performs other duties as deemed appropriate by immediate supervisor or designee
  • Completes all trainings as assigned
  • Complies with ELC policies and procedures
  • Available to work evenings and weekends
  • Maintains productivity standard of 55% of hours worked

Requirements
Education and/or Experience:
  • Possesses a high school diploma or graduate equivalency degree
  • Have a minimum of 40 hours of training in providing equivalent supportive services to child and/or adult consumers or be able to attend 40 hours of on-site training. On site training may be required outside of regularly scheduled working hours.
  • Incumbent must pass a security check as required by Medicaid Regulations

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to relate and work creatively and energetically with consumers at risk of hospitalization
  • Relates a positive approach to complex mental health issues
  • Communicates directly and effectively in a cooperative manner
  • Flexibility in assigned work hours
  • Ability to be sensitive to cultural and ethnic differences
  • Ability to safely perform major job responsibilities with or without reasonable accommodations

Salary Description
$18-$21/hr