Behavioral Health Manager

Behavioral Health ManagerLocation: Santa Barbara, CA (Hybrid)Department: Behavioral HealthPay Rate: Competitive; based on experiencePosition SummaryWe are seeking a licensed Behavioral Health Manager to support members in accessing high-quality behavioral health services through clinical review, care coordination, and utilization management activities. This hybrid role combines clinical expertise with healthcare operations, requiring the evaluation of behavioral health referrals, treatment plans, and authorization requests to ensure appropriate, medically necessary care. The ideal candidate has experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, Medi-Cal populations, and behavioral health treatment services, along with a strong understanding of regulatory compliance and clinical documentation standards. This position offers the opportunity to collaborate with providers, community organizations, and interdisciplinary healthcare teams while helping improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations. Candidates seeking professional growth in managed care, population health, and behavioral health leadership are encouraged to apply.Qualifications & Skills RequiredActive, unrestricted California LCSW, LMFT, LPCC, RN license, OR BCBA certification.LCSW, LMFT, LPCC, and RN candidates must have a minimum of three (3) years of direct clinical practice experience.BCBA candidates must have a minimum of two (2) years of direct BCBA experience.Experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and behavioral health treatment programs.Knowledge of ABA, BHT, and behavioral health service delivery models.Experience working with Medi-Cal populations.Strong clinical assessment, documentation, care coordination, and case review skills.Ability to interpret and apply medical necessity criteria and clinical guidelines.Proficiency with electronic health records and clinical documentation systems.Preferred QualificationsExperience in managed care, utilization management, or case management.Previous experience reviewing treatment authorizations and healthcare services.Spanish bilingual proficiency.Familiarity with healthcare quality improvement initiatives and regulatory compliance standards.Key ResponsibilitiesReview behavioral health referrals, treatment plans, and authorization requests for clinical appropriateness. Evaluate medical necessities and determine appropriate levels of care using established clinical guidelines. Coordinate behavioral health services among members, providers, community organizations, and internal healthcare teams. Prepare accurate clinical documentation, determinations, and member or provider communications. Monitor cases to ensure timely access to medical services. Identify and escalate quality-of-care concerns, member safety issues, and potential fraud, waste, or abuse. Ensure compliance with HIPAA, Medi-Cal requirements, organizational policies, and applicable regulatory standards. Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to support effective care management and positive member outcomes. Participate in quality improvement and utilization management initiatives as neededJob Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Santa Barbara, CA.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $46.89 - $51.11/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully remote position.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Oct 23, 2026.