What is a CPST?

My official job title is Community Psychiatric Supportive Treatment Specialist (CPST). The short description of my position is: “Works with clients to implement a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their daily living needs and helps them maintain psychiatric stability and sobriety.”

Responsibilities include empowering clients to make life decisions, providing clients with services at various locations and responding in a timely manner to situations that might destabilize the client. I also have to complete accurate and timely documentation and reports (more details later).

The most important qualities a CPST should possess are compassion, sensitivity, patience, the desire to make a difference and the ability to relate well to all kinds of people. A B.A. in Social Work or a related field is required and an LSW (Licensed Social Worker) or PC (Professional Counselor) or equivalent is preferred.

The rewards and challenges of being a CPST