Senior Behavioral Health Referrals Associate

Senior Behavioral Health Referrals Associate Department: Department of Psychiatry Position Open To: All Applicants Hours: 40 per week Start Date: May 18, 2026 Duration: Until Aug 31, 2027 (subject to renewal) Location: Austin, TX Purpose This role supports mental health programs and initiatives developed through the Texas Child Mental Health Care Consortium, focusing on improving the quality and accessibility of mental health care for children and adolescents across Texas. Responsibilities Referral Management: Uses assembled information concerning a patient’s clinical background to determine the most appropriate referral(s). Manages and tracks patient referrals, ensuring all records are provided promptly and accurately. Maintains updated records of referrals, ensuring all data is accurately documented. Contributes to and maintains a list of needed referrals. Interprofessional Collaboration: Works on the referrals team using an interprofessional model that includes pediatric psychiatrists, psychologists, other licensed mental health professionals, and administrative staff. Uses the Electronic Medical Record to communicate referral information to team members, patients, families, and school staff, ensuring accuracy of all assigned records. Provider and Family Support: Answers provider inquiries regarding the referral process and provides necessary information and support. Follows up with providers and care coordinators to support patients and families in resolving any issues or delays in the referral process. Community Outreach and Resource Development (10%): Engages in community outreach to expand and enhance a database of community providers who accept referrals from TCMH programs. Conducts searches for referral resources. Marginal or Periodic Functions: Assists with special projects related to referral process improvement. Participates in community events or health fairs to promote referral programs and resources. Supports team lead in providing training or orientation to new staff on referral workflows and systems. Supports development of educational materials for providers, patients, and families regarding referral processes. Participates in periodic audits or quality assurance initiatives. Adheres to internal controls and reporting structure. Performs related duties as required. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Customer Focus: Understands and meets the needs of internal and external customers; builds strong relationships and delivers solutions that create customer satisfaction. Responds promptly and professionally to provider inquiries and family concerns. Anticipates patient and provider needs and proactively offers solutions. Maintains empathy and patience when resolving referral delays or issues. Organizing: Arranges information and resources effectively; manages time and priorities to meet deadlines. Tracks multiple referrals simultaneously without errors. Maintains accurate and updated records in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) and referral database. Prioritizes urgent referrals while ensuring routine cases are processed efficiently. Problem Solving: Identifies issues, analyzes information, and develops practical solutions. Troubleshoots referral delays and coordinates with internal and external parties to resolve barriers. Adjusts processes when encountering systemic challenges in referral networks. Interpersonal Savvy: Builds rapport and maintains effective relationships across groups; communicates tactfully and professionally. Collaborates effectively with pediatric psychiatrists, psychologists, and administrative staff. Communicates clearly with families and school personnel regarding referral details. Handles sensitive conversations with discretion and awareness. Priority Setting: Focuses on critical tasks and allocates time and resources to achieve goals efficiently. Quickly identifies high-priority referrals and acts accordingly. Balances competing demands from providers, families, and program requirements. Uses judgment to elevate urgent cases to leadership when necessary. Functional/Technical Skills: Possesses and applies technical knowledge and skills required for the role. Navigates EMR systems accurately to update and communicate referral information. Understands referral protocols for TCHATT, CPAN, and PeriPAN programs. Maintains compliance with privacy and data security standards. Required Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Counseling, or a related field with at least 3 years of related work experience. Ability to communicate with others in a clear, understandable, and professional manner on the phone and in person. Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate. Preferred Qualifications 1 year of professional experience in care coordination or case management. Proficient PC skills with emphasis on Excel. Health plan or provider order entry experience. Knowledge of medical and mental health terminology and/or medical coding. Spanish fluency. Salary Range $48,000 + depending on qualifications Working Conditions Standard office equipment Repetitive use of a keyboard Use of manual dexterity Occasional weekend, overtime, and evening work to meet deadlines Required Materials Resume/CV 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor Letter of interest Retirement Plan Eligibility The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length. Background Checks A criminal history background check will be required for finalists under consideration for this position. Equal Opportunity Employer The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions. #J-18808-Ljbffr The University of Texas at Austin