Program Director - IRTS Program

Job Description

Job Description

Program Director – (IRTS)

Gateway Health Services is seeking an experienced and motivated Program Director to support operations within our Intensive Residential Treatment Services (IRTS) program. This leadership position plays a key role in maintaining a safe, structured, recovery-oriented treatment environment while supporting staff, ensuring regulatory compliance, and overseeing day-to-day program operations.

The Program Director works closely with the Clinical Director, nursing staff, prescribers, and interdisciplinary team members to support high-quality mental health services for adults experiencing serious and persistent mental illness and co-occurring challenges.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive Compensation 
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance 
• Paid Time Off 
• Flexible Scheduling Options 
• Supportive and Collaborative Team Environment 
• Career Advancement Opportunities 

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Program Operations

• Support daily clinical and operational functions of the IRTS program 
• Help maintain a safe, therapeutic, trauma-informed, and recovery-oriented residential environment 
• Provide leadership and support during team meetings, care coordination, and daily operations 
• Assist with staffing coordination, scheduling, and program coverage needs 
• Support crisis response and emergency procedures when necessary 

Clinical Oversight & Documentation

• Provide clinical guidance, coaching, and support to staff 
• Monitor clinical documentation for quality, timeliness, and compliance 
• Support implementation of individualized treatment plans and therapeutic interventions 
• Promote integrated and person-centered mental health treatment practices 
• Support coordination of medication management and health service processes with nursing staff and prescribers 

Staff Supervision & Development

• Supervise and support interdisciplinary team members, trainees, and interns as applicable 
• Participate in recruitment, interviewing, onboarding, and staff retention efforts 
• Conduct staff coaching, feedback, and performance evaluations 
• Ensure staff complete required trainings and competency requirements 

Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Ensure compliance with Minnesota Statutes 245I and applicable state and federal regulations 
• Support licensing reviews, audits, corrective action plans, and quality improvement initiatives 
• Monitor safety procedures, risk management practices, and program policies 
• Assist in maintaining documentation and operational standards consistent with DHS expectations 

Admissions & Collaboration

• Participate in referral review, intake, and admissions processes 
• Coordinate care with hospitals, case managers, pharmacies, prescribers, and community providers 
• Build collaborative relationships with external partners and stakeholders 
• Facilitate communication across clinical and administrative teams to support continuity of care 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or related behavioral health field required 
• Licensure preferred (LICSW, LPCC, LMFT, or LP) 
• Experience in mental health, residential treatment, or behavioral health settings required 
• Leadership or supervisory experience strongly preferred 
• Knowledge of Minnesota Statutes 245I, IRTS, or licensed residential services preferred 
• Strong organizational, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills 
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-acuity treatment environment 

Gateway Health Services is committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and recovery-focused environment for both clients and staff. We welcome dedicated professionals who are passionate about behavioral health leadership and quality care.