Mental Health Specialist II - AIS

Purpose of this position: Work in team-based environment to provide community Behavioral Health Crisis Intervention; provide screening and assessment services to engage individuals in appropriate, evidenced based practices; deliver brief, solution focused treatment to improve patient outcomes; promote Behavioral Health wellness through organization and educational efforts. Essential functions of position: performed to accomplish the purpose of the position. The specific functions of this MHSII position includes, but is not limited to: 1. Provision of direct services including completing mental health assessments, individual or group therapy as indicated by treatment plan, screening for service eligibility, and crisis intervention and stabilization. 2. Provision and coordination of safety and risk evaluations, intervention and stabilization in both clinic and community settings. Front line response to crisis line and walk-in during office hours. Ability to go out with law enforcement and other agencies to complete response role. 3. Use of solution focused model of care to provide support, counseling and education to individuals to assist them in achieving their recovery goals. Maintain client centered and strength-based approach. Assist clients in accessing available benefits and services. 4. Support team-based approach to crisis management, using knowledge of multidisciplinary approaches and ability to be flexible. 5. Implementation of approaches that utilize and enhance consumers’ natural supports. 6. Understanding and utilize principles of motivational interviewing and provide stage appropriate interventions. 7. Provision of behavioral health consultation and patient consultation to other health care or social professionals within clinical scope. 8. Engagement and promotion of community safety net by coordinating with community partners, local hospitals, and law enforcement to provide resources and interventions to individuals in the community. 9. Completion of training and activities related to Civil Commitment standards. 10. Maintain all applicable professional, legal and ethical standards, including confidentiality, dual relations, and informed consent. 11. Provide clinical documentation, reports, and records to meet State, Federal, Regional and departmental standards and requirements. Includes, but not limited to: a. Clinical formulations that result in a provisional diagnosis and clearly direct treatment considerations and focus. b. Clear documentation for psychosocial and diagnostic assessments. c. Recovery oriented treatment plans with objective, measurable objectives. d. Clear, organized, timely progress notes. 12. Represent the comprehensive behavioral health program to the community and promote the interest and education of the community in behavioral health. 13. Learn/utilize computer medical record system including use of newer office technologies. 14. Maintain productivity standards set by departmental policy. 15. May provide in-service training for staff and other professional disciplines. 16. May provide support to community groups and organizations enhancing consumer recovery. 17. Regular and consistent attendance is required. 18. All behavioral health specialists may be required to assist other clinical groups including Adult and Youth programming periodically as needed by the department and as beneficial to assist with cross training. Working conditions of position: Typical office setting, 8:00am - 5:00pm, Mon-Fri. However, BTCS provides after hours crisis services. BTCS therapists are included in the on-call coverage pool and may be asked to work past 5:00 pm to cover alternative shifts. Travel may be required within the county and infrequent travel within the State. List required special skills, licenses, certificates, etc. Must be a Qualified Mental Health Professional or eligible; master’s degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or other behavioral health related field; or Bachelors’ in nursing or occupational therapy w/license and experience. Thorough knowledge of the techniques and principles of psychological, behavioral, and social disorders and the application of psychological treatment to these disorders; skill in dealing with the mentally ill and their families; skill in dealing with the public in advocating for the mentally and emotionally disturbed; ability to develop cooperative relationships with families, physicians, agency personnel and executives and public officials; ability to take part in diagnostic and treatment planning conferences; ability to prepare concise and complete reports and patient records; ability to participate in social planning and to carry out recommendations and directives. Prefer at least two years postgraduate experience providing clinical behavioral health services. CADC, bilingual a plus. Must have good time-management skills; ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment; and good clinical writing/composition skills. Regular and consistent attendance is required. Must be able to accept supervision and adhere to County and Department policies. Must be able to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with other employees, maintain a positive attitude and represent the County and the Department in the community in a positive manner.