Emergency Services Intake Counselor - Flex/PRN (11am - 7pm Saturday and Sunday)

Weekend Flex Position – Saturday & Sunday (11 am–7 pm) Responds to clinical inquiry calls from families or referring professionals and completes crisis assessments. Assess current risk factors (suicidal, homicidal, psychosis, self‑injurious behavior, substance abuse, family dynamics, health screen, treatment history, medications, etc.). Provides appropriate clinical triage, understands basic growth and development needs specific to the age and population served, and oversees the admission process including admission appropriateness, completion of required paperwork, pre‑certifications, and coordination with the physician. Assures compliance with all applicable mental health laws, codes, rules and regulations; maintains all data/records regarding the intake and admission process; follows all policies and procedures related to release of information and confidentiality. Collaborates with the multidisciplinary team regarding admissions, deflections, bed availability, and other tasks as needed. This role requires physical stamina, high energy, and the ability to multitask and handle highly stressful situations in an emergency‑room‑type environment. Flex position – no benefits. Qualifications Education: Master’s Degree required in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a related clinical field. Experience: Two years of psychiatric experience preferred. Licensure/Certification: Licensure or eligibility for licensure (LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW) preferred; registered nurse in the State of Illinois preferred. BLS Provider certification through the American Heart Association and CPI certification required upon completion of orientation. Certifications must remain active during employment. Knowledge: Thorough understanding of DSM‑V criteria, psychotropic medications, and assessment skills; ability to develop quick and strong clinical rapport; working knowledge of Illinois Confidentiality Act, Illinois Mental Health Code, EMTALA and ILPA process; detailed understanding of psychiatric criteria for various levels of care and insurance/benefit verifications; ability to provide de‑escalation techniques and crisis stabilization; proficiency in CBT, Trauma‑Informed Care and Crisis Intervention; cooperative with other hospital staff and community agencies; strong organizational, oral and written communication skills. Language: Bilingual in both Spanish and English preferred. Job Classification Non‑Exempt. Hours vary based on coverage for a 24/7 department and may include day, evening, night, and weekend shifts. Supervision Supervision Received: Director of Emergency Services, Assistant Director, Lead Clinician and/or Supervisor. Supervision Exercised: None. Line of Promotion: Lead Clinician or Supervisor. Working Conditions & Physical Requirements Works in the Emergency Services Department, inpatient units, and other areas of the hospital. Exposure to psychiatric patients who may exhibit violent/aggressive behavior. Potential for exposure to communicable diseases, blood/body fluids and other hazardous waste. General hospital environment. Physical Requirements: Ability to communicate verbally and in writing, manage patients, push, pull and lift up to 50 pounds, perform intermittent sitting, standing, walking, bending, reaching and stooping. EEO Statement All UHS subsidiaries are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates. UHS subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers and support recruitment, selection, placement, promotion and compensation of individuals without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We believe that diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to our success. #J-18808-Ljbffr