Behavioral Health Specialist I/II - Mental Health

Responsibilities Provide para‑professional counseling services to clients, recommend appropriate referrals, maintain community liaisons to ensure adequate services for clients, facilitate client‑focused specialty groups, and, as part of the treatment team, establish and implement treatment plans. Work under supervision, may be assigned to regional teams, residential or inpatient facilities, and various outpatient programs. Perform field visits to those under care and supervise subordinates. Provide highly skilled mental health and supportive services to a varied caseload of members. Interview clients to screen and assess substance use to determine service needs. Provide Deputy Public Conservator services. Develop curriculum on various health topics; facilitate mental health and support groups. Accompany members in court, and/or transport members in County vehicles. Prepare daily records, summarize progress of treatment for members and keep these records current according to department standards. Act as a lead worker or direct the work of others, offering training when needed. Advocate for and assist members in accessing and receiving services. Communicate with various BHRS departments and other agencies. Build partnerships for positive and healthy youth development. Consult with other agencies, law enforcement and community service providers for coordination or care, identify services, and discuss referrals. Engage community members and local agency partners in planning and coalition development. Engage in compliant and ethical behavior in accordance with County and BHRS policy. Facilitate admission and discharge of members to the County's acute psychiatric hospital or substance use disorder residential treatment programs when necessary. Formulate specific health education program objectives from broad program goals, assess education and training needs, and design programs and information to reduce substance misuse and abuse. Interact productively within a multidisciplinary team to provide holistic case management services. Meet regularly with members and coach them in developing age‑appropriate social skills. Assist in establishing members' eligibility for Medi‑Cal or other benefits and advocate for continuation of benefits. Participate in diagnostic and evaluative staff conferences for cooperative planning and treatment. Interview members to screen, determine service needs, including evaluating risk factors. Provide case coordination and treatment planning and evaluation. Speak to public and/or agency groups to provide education that reduces stigma. Support mental health program compliance with BHRS, State & Federal regulations, reviews and corrective actions. Support mental health quality services program with BHRS, State & Federal standards and requirements. Qualifications Education & Experience All applicants must possess a BLS CPR for Healthcare Providers. Pattern I (Behavioral Health Specialist I) Fifteen (15) units of college credit in a related field; AND Four (4) years experience in crisis intervention, group/family/individual counseling or in a psychiatric inpatient setting or drug/alcohol treatment and recovery program. Pattern II LVN or Psychiatric Technician license or 30 units of college credit in a related field; AND Three (3) years experience in crisis intervention, group/family/individual counseling, or a psychiatric inpatient setting or drug/alcohol treatment and recovery program. Pattern III Bachelor of Arts degree in a related field; AND Two (2) years responsible experience in crisis intervention, group/family/individual counseling, or a psychiatric inpatient setting or drug/alcohol treatment and recovery program. Pattern IV Master's degree in a related field such as Counseling, Psychology or Social Work. Behavioral Health Specialist II One (1) year of experience as a Behavioral Health Specialist I, or the equivalent, to qualify for the Behavioral Health Specialist II level; AND BLS CPR for Healthcare Providers. Desirable Qualifications Current or previous consumer of service(s) through Behavioral Health and Recovery Services; OR An immediate family member of an individual who previously or currently receives services through Behavioral Health and Recovery Services; OR Individuals/family members who have lived experience with a severe mental health diagnosis or substance use disorder. General Qualifications Pass County‑paid pre‑employment job‑related background investigation. Perform job duties in a manner assuring a safe working environment for oneself and others. Maintain confidential information according to the legal standards and/or County regulations as required. Some positions may be required to possess and maintain a valid California Driver’s License and meet County insurability requirements. #J-18808-Ljbffr