Admissions Counselor

Admissions Counselor – Part Time Montrose Behavioral Health Hospital, a Chicago alternative psych hospital, provides personalized treatment for individuals with mental health disorders and co‑occurring addictions. We are seeking an Admissions Counselor to facilitate admissions, clinical intake assessments, and utilization review to ensure patients receive the most appropriate level of care. Compensation & Schedule $26‑$32 per hour 16–32 hours per week (part‑time) Responsibilities Respond to inquiries about the facility within policy timeframes. Develop therapeutic relationships with patients and families. Perform benefit eligibility checks to confirm active benefits at admission; communicate eligibility to the business office and the patient or significant other. Collaborate with medical and psychiatric personnel to recommend appropriate referrals. Coordinate admissions and transfers from referral sources and between levels of care within the facility. Maintain knowledge of milieu management. Communicate projected admissions to designated internal representatives promptly. Ensure all clinical information from referral sources or the patient (including medical comorbidity information) is received, when possible, prior to admission. Schedule and complete pre‑admission assessments; consult with admitting physician and communicate disposition recommendations to patient or family. Prepare and maintain appropriate medical record documentation that supports authorization at the requested level of care. Complete initial pre‑authorization for treatment and admission prior to admission, within payor timeframe guidelines. Admit patient in the registration and accounting system; complete all admission and consent forms. Demonstrate a positive, empathetic and professional attitude toward customers; acknowledge and resolve complaints when patient needs are not met; prioritize patient safety. Coordinate care for patients not being admitted and ensure they receive appropriate follow‑up care and referrals. Demonstrate a sense of urgency related to patient safety and provide excellent customer service. Conduct safety checks and ensure supervision is performed at 15‑minute intervals, as noted in special precautions or individualized supervision guidelines. Other Functions Perform other functions and tasks as assigned. Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in a social services field required (if state allows). Master’s degree in a social services field (e.g., psychology, counseling, social work, sociology, health administration, nursing) or RN preferred. One or more years’ experience in mental/behavioral health working with individuals in a clinical or observational capacity preferred. Licenses, Designations & Certifications Current licensure required for the clinical specialty area (e.g., RN license, CAC, or other state‑designated counseling or therapy license). CPR and de‑escalation/restraint certification required (training available upon hire). First aid may be required based on state or facility policy. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment regardless of an individual’s characteristics protected by applicable state, federal and local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr