Many people think an intervention specialist is someone who helps people with addictions seek treatment. While that is one kind of intervention specialist, another works with struggling learners in special education. One way to pursue this role is with a Master of Science in Education in Special Education from Northwest Missouri State University’s online program.
Types of Intervention Specialists in Special Education
Intervention specialists can be found in schools, healthcare organizations, and local and state government agencies. While intervention specialists can work in schools, they are not special education teachers by any means. Their roles can be similar to those in social work, as they manage multiple cases, partner with agencies, advocate for individual children, and attend relevant meetings regarding those children’s services and progress.
They may travel to meet with the child at home or school, and they may work in an office or healthcare setting.
The responsibilities of an intervention specialist can include the following:
- evaluating children
- creating individual development plans
- teaching parents how to work with the child
- working with children one on one
The special education intervention specialist monitors progress using quantitative and qualitative metrics, provides specialized instruction, and participates in meetings regarding the student’s plan and progress as part of the intervention process. The specialist in the Effective Practices section of Missouri’s Office of Special Education coordinates with state and local agencies and school districts to set up special education services for students between the ages of three and 21.
Another type of intervention specialist focuses on early childhood intervention (ECI), which targets children from birth to three years old. These children tend to have severe cognitive, behavioral, communication, or physical delays or disabilities. Or they may be at a high risk for child abuse or neglect. The ECI works with these at-risk children and their families to provide them with the support and resources they need to give the child the best chance in life.
The Missouri First Steps program offers the services, resources and support families need to raise a healthy, happy and successful child. This program is intended for children from birth to age three.
What Does It Take to Become a Special Education Intervention Specialist?
The job requirements differ by role and organization. An intervention specialist position requires at least a bachelor’s degree. Some require certification and completion of a teacher preparation program. These standards can vary from state to state.
An intervention specialist may have a sub-specialty, such as autism spectrum disorders (ASD), speech-language or physical therapy. In some states, elementary school teachers may be able to move into intervention specialist roles by taking courses specializing in intervention. Some job descriptions indicate that a master’s degree with a special education focus is preferred. It is possible to take a course on intervention as part of the online graduate degree program.
For example, Northwest offers a Theories and Techniques of Behavior Analysis and Intervention course in its online MSEd. in Special Education program. The course covers the technical and functional understanding of applied behavior analysis.
Students will also learn evidence-based behavior intervention practices. Discover if the career of intervention specialist is the right choice with Northwest’s online program and develop essential job skills today.
Learn more about Northwest Missouri State University’s online Master of Science in Education in Special Education program.
