Behavioral Health Outreach Specialist

Behavioral Health Outreach Specialist - Decatur, Illinois
Full-Time | Every Other Friday Off (Paid Wellness Day)

Heritage Behavioral Health Center is seeking a mission-driven Behavioral Health Outreach Specialist to join our expanding community-based team. In this role, you will provide person-centered outreach, early intervention, and supportive services to adolescents and adults experiencing high-risk substance use, severe mental health symptoms, and individuals presenting with first-episode psychosis.

This position meets clients where they are-in homes, community settings, hospitals, shelters, and other natural environments-to promote stability, independence, and meaningful recovery.

Core Responsibilities
• Provide individualized, recovery-focused outreach in community settings, including to individuals disengaged from services.
• Assist clients with developing daily living skills, symptom management strategies, and community integration skills.
• Provide early intervention and support for individuals experiencing first-episode psychosis.
• Collaborate with social service agencies, healthcare providers, crisis teams, and community partners.
• Support clients in navigating benefits, housing, transportation, and employment-related services.
• Complete accurate, timely documentation in compliance with agency and regulatory standards.
• Monitor progress and adjust interventions based on client needs and goals.
• Provide crisis response, de-escalation, and safety planning in the community.
• Advocate for client needs while promoting empowerment and self-determination.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge
• Understanding of substance use disorders, harm reduction, recovery principles, and community-based models of care.
• Familiarity with symptoms associated with severe mental illness, including psychosis and co-occurring disorders.
• Knowledge of local social service systems, healthcare networks, and benefits programs.

Skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with diverse populations.
• Ability to build trust, engage clients, and maintain professional boundaries.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Skills in crisis intervention, de-escalation, and effective problem-solving.

Abilities
• Work independently in community settings with consistent accountability.
• Adapt to changing client needs and dynamic environments.
• Use technology for documentation and communication.
• Demonstrate cultural competence and sensitivity to individual differences.

Qualifications
• High School Diploma or equivalent plus 5 years of supervised mental health or social service experience
• Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, education, or human services preferred
• Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) credential through IAODAPCA
• Minimum age of 21
• Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance

Salary
• High School + 5 Years Experience: $23.00/hour + Every Other Friday Paid Off
• Bachelor's Degree: $25.00/hour + Every Other Friday Paid Off

Schedule

Full-Time - Every other Friday off (paid wellness day)

About Heritage Behavioral Health Center

Heritage is a mission-driven Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) serving individuals across a multi-county region in Central Illinois. We believe all staff-regardless of role-directly contribute to high-quality, person-centered care.

Why You'll Love Working Here
• Collaborative, supportive, mission-driven culture
• Every other Friday off - paid wellness days
• Competitive salaries aligned with state and national benchmarks
• Loan forgiveness eligibility through NHSC

Comprehensive Benefits

Time Off
• Generous vacation, sick, personal, and holiday leave

Wellness
• Every other Friday off (paid)
• Fitness reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Insurance
• Health, dental, and vision
• Flexible Spending Accounts (healthcare & dependent care)
• Additional life insurance options
• Substantial agency contributions toward health insurance premiums

Retirement
• 401(k) and Roth options

Professional Growth
• Tuition assistance
• Continuing education opportunities

Loan Forgiveness
• Eligible through the National Health Service Corps