Director of Behavioral Health

The Behavioral Health Director works with his/her team partner(s), using the nursing process to assess, plan, implement and evaluate direct patient care.

SUPERVISION:

Reports directly to the Chief Nursing Officer

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Strategic Leadership and Program Management : The Behavioral Health Director will provide strategic direction for behavioral health services, including planning, implementing, and evaluating programs that address mental health and substance use disorders. They are responsible for developing policies, procedures, and treatment protocols to ensure effective and evidence-based care
• Clinical Oversight : The Director will ensure that clinical operations meet high standards. They will collaborate with psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors to create integrated treatment plans and maintain a cohesive care environment
• Staff Management and Development : The Director is responsible for hiring, training, and supervising staff; fostering professional development and ensuring that the team is equipped to deliver quality care. They will also coordinate ongoing training and professional development activities
• Financial and Resource Management : The Director manages budgets, allocates resources efficiently, and secures funding through grants or partnerships. This ensures the financial sustainability of the hospital’s behavioral health programs.
• Compliance and Quality Assurance : The Director ensures that all programs comply with local, state, and federal regulations, as well as ethical standards. They will monitor program performance, conduct evaluations, and implement quality improvement initiatives
• Community Engagement and Advocacy : The Director will often interact with patients, families, and the community to raise awareness about behavioral health issues. They may participate in research, outreach programs, and initiatives to reduce stigma and improve access to care.

The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE

• Must be a Registered Nurse, BSN required.
• Minimum of 4 years management experience; Prefer 4 Years Experience in working with mentally ill &/or addictions.
• Knowledgeable of various computer programs.
• Crisis Response Training, CPR.
• Ability to read, write and speak intelligible English; Ability to communicate with patient, family, peers and medical personnel; Be willing to train for more advanced duties or skills.
• Requires emotional stability and resilience; Must be adaptable to change, be decisive, and demonstrate foresight. Exhibits organizational and leadership ability.
• Excellent interpersonal and verbal communications skills; Ability to understand basic medical terminology.

Physical Demands/Work Environment

• Work may require evenings, nights, weekends, holidays and/or a flexible schedule depending on the needs of the unit/department/service.
• Requires professional written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to deal with stressful situations and conflict resolution.
• Must have normal hearing or utilize adaptive devices to listen with a stethoscope to discern breath sounds, heart sounds, bowel sounds.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

“Experience Memorial” is more than a slogan, it’s the care we provide our patients and it’s the commitment to our community and our team members. As a nationally certified Great Place to Work, at Lake Charles Memorial Health System you will have the opportunity to be a part of an organizational culture that supports not only exceptional patient care but also the well‑being and professional growth of our employees. Join us and be a part of a team where your contributions are valued, your growth is nurtured, and your success is celebrated.