Mental Health Counselor

POSITION SUMMARY :

The person in this position will provide screening / assessment, individualized service planning (ISP), and case management services to individuals experiencing a variety of needs / challenges.

The person in this position will work with a multidisciplinary team to develop and implement individualized service plans (ISP), provide case management, and support clients in need.

Essential Job Functions include those listed below.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS :

• Conduct thorough screenings / assessments / interviews to evaluate client’s needs.
• Collaborate with clients to develop ISPs based on screening / assessment / interview findings, client goals, and evidence-based practices.
• Set measurable goals and objectives and regularly review / update ISPs as needed.
• Provide case management, psychoeducation, and, if deemed appropriate, individual / group therapy to address the client’s needs.
• Assess and manage crisis / emergencies effectively, including suicide risk assessment and intervention, as well as coordinating appropriate levels of care.
• Develop safety plans and provide support to clients and their support systems during times of crisis.
• Coordinate care with the team, other healthcare providers, community agencies, and support services to ensure continuity of care for clients.
• Advocate for clients’ needs and collaborate with external stakeholders to address barriers to treatment and access to resources.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including notes, ISPs, and discharge summaries, in compliance with legal and ethical standards and agency policies.
• Embrace and embody the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision, and goals of WestCare Foundation; and
• Perform any other duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS :

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the duties and responsibilities satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and / or ability required.

• Strong screening / assessment, case management, service planning and intervention skills with a commitment to evidence-based practice.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to establish rapport with clients, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and communicate effectively with stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating flexibility, creativity, and cultural competence.
• Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines governing substance use and co-occurring practices.
• Ability to operate a computer and complete documents in Microsoft Word program formats with solid knowledge of Excel or the ability to learn.
• Ability to respond as needed to crises efficiently.
• Ability to work well in a team environment.
• Adherence to the highest standard of ethical conduct, especially to standards governing confidentiality.
• Professional appearance and demeanor.
• Must be culturally / linguistically sensitive to the populations served.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a criminal background clearance successfully.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain and maintain WestCare’s vehicle insurance is required; and
• CPR / First Aid Certification and an annual Tuberculosis test.
• During your tenure with WestCare, there may be new requirements, including, but not limited to, vaccinations that are issued by local, State, Federal, and / or Funders WestCare may have to comply with.

Should this occur, Human Resources or appropriate personnel will inform you.

EDUCATION and / or EXPERIENCE :

• Experience working with diverse populations and individuals with various substance use and co-occurring diagnoses.
• Master’s degree or higher in social work, psychology, clinical mental health counseling or a related field from an accredited institution preferred.

LICENSURE / CERTIFICATION :

Current licensure or eligibility for licensure as an LCSW, LMFT, LPC, or higher. Internship status in any aforementioned licensure would be considered.

WORKING CONDITIONS :

• Work is primarily performed in an office setting.
• Some travel is required.

About Westcare :

Who We AreSince 1973, WestCare has provided health and human services with a commitment to delivering high-quality and cost-effective services that empower people to transform their lives.

THE MISSION.We are resolutely dedicated to the populations we serve, as well as our employees, and actively promote the wellness and empowerment of individuals, their families, and their communities.

Our MissionWestCare empowers everyone with whom we come into contact with to engage in a process of healing, growth, and change benefiting themselves, their families, co-workers, and communities.

Where Do We Serve?Proudly serving sixteen states, three U.S. territories, the Dominican Republic and the Republic of PalauWhat Do We Do?

We're a family of nonprofit organizations that provide a wide range of health and human services to improve the lives of those in our communities.

Our service domains include : Mental Health & WellnessTreatment & RehabilitationCriminal JusticeVeteran ServicesHousing OpportunitiesEducation & PreventionDomestic ViolenceEmergency Support