Behavioral Health Support Specialist

Description

Behavioral Health Support Specialist

Oak Orchard Health

Join a mission-driven healthcare organization dedicated to improving the health of our communities. As a Behavioral Health Support Specialist, you'll play a vital role in helping patients navigate behavioral health challenges while working alongside an interdisciplinary team dedicated to improving lives throughout Western New York.

Why Join Oak Orchard Health?

• Competitive salary
• Flexible scheduling that supports work-life balance
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan with company match
• Generous paid time off and paid holidays
• Tuition reimbursement
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible
• Company-paid life insurance
• Professional development and continuing education opportunities

Position Summary

The Behavioral Health Support Specialist serves as a key member of Oak Orchard Health's integrated care team. This role supports patients with behavioral health, substance use, social service, and care coordination needs while collaborating closely with medical providers, therapists, nurses, and community partners.

The ideal candidate is compassionate, patient-focused, and committed to helping individuals overcome barriers to care and achieve improved health outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with primary care and behavioral health providers to support patient care
• Conduct behavioral health, substance use, and social needs screenings
• Provide brief interventions, education, and follow-up support
• Participate in daily team huddles and facilitate warm handoffs from medical providers
• Respond to behavioral health crises and complete safety assessments as needed
• Develop safety plans and coordinate urgent referrals
• Assist patients in accessing community resources and support services
• Support care management activities and maintain an active patient caseload
• Provide follow-up outreach to improve engagement and treatment adherence
• Support maternal, pediatric, and family behavioral health initiatives
• Coordinate referrals to mental health, substance use, developmental, and community-based services
• Accurately document patient interactions and care plans within the electronic health record
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Associate's degree with at least two years of direct human services experience, or bachelor's degree in psychology, Human Services, Social Work, or a related field
• Experience working with individuals experiencing behavioral health and/or substance use challenges
• Strong communication, assessment, and relationship-building skills
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within a multidisciplinary team

Preferred

• Master's degree in a behavioral health or human services field
• Experience in integrated healthcare, care management, or community mental health
• Training in motivational interviewing, SBIRT, crisis intervention, or other evidence-based practices
• Bilingual English/Spanish

Join Our Team If you're passionate about improving access to behavioral health services and making a meaningful impact in your community, we encourage you to apply and become part of the Oak Orchard Health team.