Social Worker 4

About MHAS The Mental Health Advocacy Services has a vacancy. This job title has an assigned pay grade of SS-415. Our mission is to ensure that our clients’ voices are heard and that they receive every right and remedy afforded them under law. Our goal is to provide high-quality legal counsel and representation to our clients, address systemic issues that affect the rights of more than one client and require a remedy, act as a clearinghouse for information relative to adults and children with mental health diagnoses and children in need of care, and provide training to various individuals and agencies. This position was created within the MHAS Child Advocacy Program to institute a multidisciplinary team approach to children's legal representation. Qualifications • Possession of a current Louisiana license to practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). • A master’s degree in social work followed by three years of social services experience. Job Duties Acts as a consultant on social work matters to attorneys and the multidisciplinary team; assists the attorney in client engagement and case evaluation. Conducts general assessments when each case is first opened in the office, determining services that may benefit the client, available supports, and immediate treatment if the client is in crisis. Assists the attorney in understanding the client’s mental health needs and familiarizing them with social service providers; helps the client prepare to testify; advocates for clients in court or with service providers and DCFS representatives. Conducts investigations, assists with client visits, background research, records requests, subpoenas, and other investigative and case‑assistant tasks; supports cases involving complex clinical issues with ongoing social work brief advice, consultation, or collaboration. Prepares required social work reports such as assessments, case summaries, and social histories for attorneys and multidisciplinary staff; visits/interviews clients, caretakers, and others involved in Child in Need of Care proceedings to establish and maintain relationships and identify complex issues. Performed Case Management (Interdisciplinary, Inter-Agency Team) Conducts evaluations of clients with complex clinical issues, identifying unique problems in high-risk populations, special needs, mental health concerns, and adverse childhood experiences; makes recommendations for additional or different services and facilitates referrals. Collects and interprets school and medical records and evaluates, and prepares required social work reports such as assessments, case summaries, and social histories for attorneys and multidisciplinary staff. Attends court hearings and provides expert testimony as needed. Enhances MHAS Staff Development & Meets Agency Requirements Provides in-services to staff on the appropriate use of various treatment modalities, availability of regional and state resources for clients, and psychosocial aspects of service to children in foster care. Position-Specific Details • Appointment Type: This vacancy will be filled by a new hire or by promotion of a current permanent status classified employee. • Applicants with experience working with juveniles and persons with mental illness and/or disabilities are encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr