Family Mental Health Counselor

Responsible for the independent delivery of highly professional counseling services with direct contact with patients experiencing chemical dependency and/or psychiatric issues within professional setting.

Performance: Collects in-depth information and documents pertinent information for access by all members of the healthcare team.

• Assesses patients by collecting information about the patients' medical, social, emotional, financial, spiritual, support systems, barriers to care, access to services, psychosocial functioning through direct client contact and other relevant sources to include family and caregivers, etc. If a licensed professional counselor or a licensed marriage and family therapist conducts the social services assessment, the results of the assessment shall be signed by a licensed master social worker evidencing approval of such results.
• Develops a discharge/care management plan in collaboration with the patient, other members of the healthcare team, the physician and 3rd party payers, as indicated.
• ensures adequate knowledge/comprehension regarding medical care choices, etc.) and clearly communicates case management activities/intervention in the health care record.
• Directs, monitors, and evaluates the social services provided within Inpatient Psychiatric Units. Ensures discharge prescriptions, orders, and appointments are made, DME, ambulatory care services, nursing home care, etc. Advocates for the patient to promote positive client health and wellness outcomes.
• Assists patients and their families to understand, accept, and follow medical recommendations, restore patients to optimum social and health adjustment and address personal and environmental difficulties through individual, group, and family counseling.
• Maintains updated knowledge of community resources and governmental programs available from local, state, and federal health and social services agencies and makes referrals as indicated.
• Evaluates readmission rates, LOS reports, Press Ganey and patient satisfaction surveys and applies to case management practices, as indicated.
• Respects and maintains hospital policies regarding patient confidentiality, patient rights, and ethical issues.
• Has knowledge and competency in initiating emergency detention orders, orders of protective custody, and the guardianship process.
• Assists with establishing Advance Directives, Medical Power of Attorney, etc. Identifies and establishes legal guardian/decision maker.
• Understands the process of contracted bed authorization through the local mental health authorities.
• Utilizes the Patient/Visitor Safety Learning Report to document patient safety issues and complaints related to care.
• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent
• Master's degree in Counseling, Psychology, Marriage or Family Counseling

Licensed Professional Counselor- Associate (LPC-A) OR Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) OR Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) OR Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA) OR Licensed Psychological Associate with Independent Practice (LPA) with authorization to practice in the State of Texas
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