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Behavioral Health Counselor/Therapist

This position is a member of the clinical team whose main job function is to provide mental health services to individuals, families and groups either at the mental health center or other contracted locations within the community. Mental health services specifically include: mental health evaluations; initial assessments and individual service plans; psychotherapy and counseling; treatment plan reviews; crisis intervention/emergency; preliminary diagnostic evaluations (pre-screening); and consultation and education to patients, patient’s families, or other interested parties. Other activities may arise requiring counselor/therapist expertise and coordination for quality care of SIMHC individuals.

I. PRIMARY JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Serve as counselor/therapist providing direct care to individuals, families, or groups either at the mental health center or other contracted community sites as determined necessary by Executive Director, or Director of Clinical Services. Meet productivity standards as set forth by the Center (currently set at 70%) and assume responsibility for quality of services rendered to individuals within budgetary guidelines.
2. Conduct and document mental health evaluations such as a preliminary diagnostic evaluation (pre-screening) upon request. Conduct and document initial assessments for psychotherapy and counseling services, gathering pertinent social history for use in making appropriate diagnosis. Develop a detailed psychiatric crisis intervention plan that includes natural supports and self-help methods with individuals who have a chronic mental illness.
3. Collaborate in creating and documenting individual service plans and subsequent treatment plan reviews. Document the individual’s progress toward goals, provision of staff supports and interventions, the individual’s response to interventions and status at each visit, and reasons for continuing or discontinuing services during or after each session in the session progress note. Maintain appropriate discharge information and follow up on missed appointments.
4. Provide emergency services to individuals consistent with Center’s program plan, policies and procedures; including crisis intervention, and/or consultation and education via telephone or in person.
5. Documentation will be completed within one week of evaluation or assessment and within 24 hours of all therapy sessions. All patient information will be confidentially maintained in the Center’s electronic medical record system, in accordance with Center policies/procedures, accreditation standards, and HIPAA guidelines. Patient information will not be released without authorized release or by court order. Prepare additional reports, as requested and authorized through signed releases.
6. Be involved with other providers and in community services including case and program consultation, mental health education, and in service training, specifically with primary care physicians, upon acquiring appropriate releases. Consult/plan as needed with staff of other agencies to assure appropriate, unduplicated services to clients and coordinate consumer referrals to other appropriate human services.
7. Participate actively in Center staff meetings for case consultation, Center program planning and quality assurance/compliance review of records. Interact with support staff as needed to facilitate claim preparation for third party reimbursement and quality client care.
8. Comply with Center employee handbook and policies and procedures. Keep records of time used and submit monthly expense claims/travel reports and appropriate forms for vacation or absence, according to Center policies and procedures.
9. Maintain continuing education requirements by attending professional courses and seminars as required by licensing board to maintain license, knowledge, and professional growth.
10. May be charged with developing, coordinating and evaluating a specific program or service to the Center, including, but not limited to, grant writing, data collection, participating in utilization and risk management activities, research activities, input towards SIMHC strategic plan, or other duties as assigned by the Executive Director or Director of Clinical Services.

II. QUALIFICATIONS

1. Must hold at minimum a master’s degree in a mental health field including, but not limited to: psychology, counseling and guidance, or social work from an accredited institution; and
2. Hold a current Iowa license as required by the Iowa professional licensure laws.

III. DEGREE OF SUPERVISION

1. Administrative supervision of mental health counselor/therapist by Director of Clinical Services at least monthly or on an as-needed basis.
2. Individual supervision with a qualified, licensed mental health professional will occur minimum of weekly for master’s degree non-independently licensed persons.
3. Qualified, licensed mental health professionals may clinically supervise the work of license-eligible persons if approved by Director of Clinical Services and applicable licensing board.
4. Directly responsible to the Director of Clinical Services.

V. REQUIREMENTS FOR POSITION

1. Flexibility to alter schedule as needed for client care, within established Center hours.
2. Excellent verbal and written skills with ability to practice good communication with providers, staff, and other providers.
3. Good decision- making skills and ability for critical thinking.
4. Working knowledge of current diagnostic criteria manual as approved by American Psychiatric Association.
5. Familiarity and proficiency with electronic medical record, electronic mail, and word processing preferred.
6. Hearing and visual ability which allows for necessary understanding while rendering professional services.
7. Physical ability to stand, walk, sit, type and/or move for up to 8 hours in a working shift.
8. Strong passion for improving the mental health & substance abuse care delivery system. Must have an internal desire to want to see people do better and live better.

To apply for any of these positions, or if you have any questions, please contact: [email protected]

Substance Abuse Counselor

This position is a part of the clinical team of Southern Iowa Mental Health Center (SIMHC). This position is primarily responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of substance abuse disorder patients of SIMHC. The position requires current Iowa certification as well and maintenance of such certification. This position also includes regular consultation and education activities for the patient, but also the patient’s family, friends and other supports.

I. PRIMARY JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Complete and maintain accurate records or reports regarding the patient’s history of use and treatment progress.
• Conduct an ASAM assessment at the time of assessment and conduct regular updates as needed.
• Counsel patients, individually or in group sessions to assist in overcoming dependencies, adjusting to life, or making changes in regards to substance/alcohol use.
• Interview patients, review records and consult with other professionals to evaluate the individual’s mental and physical condition and to determine their suitability for participation in a substance use disorder treatment program.
• Develop patient treatment plan based on research, clinical experience, client’s desire for change and the patient’s treatment history.
• Review and evaluate the patient’s progress in relation to measureable goals described in the treatment plan. Be prepared to modify treatment plan as necessary to match patient’s progress, or lack thereof.
• Intervene as an advocate for patients to resolve emergency problems in crisis situations.
• Be available to crisis unit staff for consultation in regards to substance use disorder crisis scenarios.
• Coordinate counseling efforts with other mental health and health professionals, both in and out of SIMHC.
• Provide both the patient and the patient’s family/support system information regarding substance use disorders and the disease process of addiction. Assist family members/support system in understanding addiction and ways to be helpful and unhelpful as the patient moves towards recovery.
• Plan and implement aftercare programs for patients being discharged from treatment.
• Assist patients in the treatment by collecting and analyzing urine samples.
• Assist in the development of community education materials to be dispersed through public education, prevention or health promotion programs.
• Coordinate and implement discharge plans which may include outside community agencies as needed.
• Follow-up on medical and medication concerns through collaboration with SIMHC prescribers and community prescribers as necessary.
• Maintain up to date, well documented medical records, which comply with state and program requirements.
• Participates in case reviews as a member of the multidisciplinary staff.
• All other duties as assigned.

II. QUALIFICATIONS:

• Active Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) through the Iowa Board of Certification (IBC) license required.
• Previous two years (at minimum) mental health/substance abuse experience is preferred.
• Must be able to pass an Iowa criminal background check.
• Must be able to pass Iowa DHS Adult & Child Abuse Registry verification.

III. REQUIREMENTS FOR POSITION:

• Flexibility to alter schedule as needed for patient care.
• Excellent verbal and written skills with ability to practice good communication with patients, staff, and other community providers.
• Good decision- making skills and ability for critical thinking.
• Strong passion for improving the mental health & substance abuse care delivery system. An internal desire to want to see patients do better and live better.
• Familiarity and proficiency with electronic medical record, electronic mail, and word processing required. Strong computer skills required.
• Hearing and visual ability which allows for necessary understanding while rendering professional and supervisory services.
• Physical ability to stand, walk, sit, type and/or move for up to 8 hours in a working shift.

IV. DEGREE OF SUPERVISION

1. Administrative supervision by the Director of Clinical Services at least monthly or on an as-needed basis.
2. May be asked to supervise other CADC positions.
3. Reports directly to the Director of Clinical Services.

To apply for any of these positions, or if you have any questions, please contact: [email protected]

Access Center Crisis Response Staff

This position is responsible for the coordination of services for all patients admitted to the Southern Iowa Mental Health Center (SIMHC) Access Center. The Access Center consists of the following services: Crisis Stabilization Residential Services, Mental Health Subacute Facility Services, 23-Hour Crisis Observation & Holding Services, 24/7 Crisis Line, and Court Ordered Evaluations. All services are designed to serve patients with a mental health, substance abuse and/or co-occurring disability. Individuals that are either experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, or need continued stabilization services, that have other conditions such as brain injury, physical disability, and/or intellectual disability will be served within the Access Center if they qualify for admission for the service they are rendering.

The Crisis Response Staff (CRS) is responsible for the initial mental health, substance use, and brain injury screenings of the patient when they arrive to the Access Center. CRS will provide monitoring, crisis intervention, and one-on-one interaction with patients admitted to the Access Center. CRS staff will provide education and teaching skills as appropriate. CRS will be responsible for completing admission processes, daily check in with patients and assisting with care coordination activities in preparing for discharge. The CRS will make decisions about admissions of patients to Crisis Stabilization Residential Services and mobile crisis response.

I. PRIMARY JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Complete screening, engagement, and admission of patients into the Access Center.
• Get a completed Mental Health & Disability Region services application upon admission of each patient and fax application to applicable Region office (home county office of patient).
• Connect with each patient’s provider of choice and natural supports within 24 hours of their admission to the Access Center.
• Ensure that patients are adhering to the expectations and rules as set forth by the Crisis Unit.
• Help to identify the patient’s areas of need, problems, and strengths and work to develop crisis plans for each patient to use upon discharge.
• Work with the patient, team, their natural supports on development of treatment plans.
• Work with the patient on achieving their treatment plan goals.
• Work as a team with the other Access Center staff and with all other SIMHC staff.
• Documents case notes, patient contact notes, and all other necessary documentation into the SIMHC EHR, and other applicable MCO portals.
• Request preauthorization’s for Access Center services being rendered from the patient’s funder.
• Adheres to all medication policies and works with trained nursing staff to ensure all medication policies are followed whether client administered or staff administered.
• Provide patient transportation if needed.
• Handle crisis line calls, help callers de-escalate and/or make referrals for services they are seeking or would benefit from.
• Review Mobile Crisis Team referrals and dispatch the team when appropriate, including offering callers this service.
• Attend staff meetings, staffings, and trainings as requested by the Team Lead and Crisis Unit Director.
• Cleaning, laundry, and trash removal within the Access Center.
• Complete patient follow-up calls and confirmation of follow-up appointments achieved.
• Complete incident reports when applicable, review incident reports completed and help identify areas to prevent future incidents.
• Completes other duties as assigned.

II. QUALIFICATIONS:

• One or more of the following is required:
a. A mental health professional as defined by Iowa Code Section 228.1
b. A bachelor’s degree with 30 semester hours or equivalent in a human services field (including, but not limited to, psychology, social work, nursing, education) and a minimum of one year of experience in a behavioral or mental health service.
c. A law enforcement officer with a minimum of two years of experience in the law enforcement officer’s field.
d. An emergency medical technician (EMT) with a minimum of two years of experience in the EMR’s field.
e. A peer support specialist with a minimum of one year of experience in behavioral or mental health services.
f. A family support peer specialist with a minimum of one year of experience in behavioral or mental health services.
g. A registered nurse with a minimum of one year of experience in behavioral or mental health services.
h. A bachelor’s degree in a non – human services related field, associate’s degree, or high school diploma (or equivalency) with a minimum of two years of experience in behavioral or mental health services, and 30 hours of crisis and mental health in service training (in additional to the Department approved training).
• Staff providing crisis response services must complete:
a. A minimum of 30 hours of Department – approved crisis intervention training.
b. A post – training assessment of competency.
• Medication Manager preferred or willing to obtain this.
• Must be able to pass an Iowa criminal background check.
• Must be able to pass Iowa DHS Adult & Child Abuse Registry verification.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and carry automobile insurance.
• Must adhere to Driver policy 24.3 (4) as part of ongoing job requirement.

III. REQUIREMENTS FOR POSITION:

• Flexibility to alter schedule as needed for patient care, staff meetings, and trainings.
• Good verbal and written skills with ability to practice good communication with clients, staff, and other community providers.
• Good decision- making skills and ability for critical thinking.
• Strong passion for improving the mental health care delivery system.
• Comfortable transporting patients out in the community.
• Complete a physical and a 2-step TB test.
• Familiarity and proficiency with electronic medical record, electronic mail, and word processing required. Strong computer skills required.
• Hearing and visual ability which allows for necessary understanding while rendering professional and supervisory services.
• Physical ability to stand, walk and move for up to 8 or 12 hours in a working shift.

To apply for any of these positions, or if you have any questions, please contact: [email protected]

IHH Care Coordinator

SIMHC is hiring for an IHH Care Coordinator – located in our Centerville office.

Job Description:
Southern Iowa Mental Health Center
Integrated Health Home (IHH)
Care Coordinator – Bachelor’s level
Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

This position will be based in Centerville, IA.

Serve as a member of an interdisciplinary team that serves adults with mental health conditions and children with serious emotional disturbances by providing care coordination services such as linkage to services, advocacy, education, and health promotion. This is a team atmosphere that works together to provide wraparound services. Our IHH covers 11 counties in Southeast Iowa: Wapello, Mahaska, Keokuk, Jefferson, Van Buren, Davis, Appanoose, Decatur, Wayne, Lucas and Monroe.

Job Functions:

• Carry as caseload of members and complete phone and in-person visits each month.
• Complete IHH assessments, care plans, and funding requests as due.
• Promote wellness and recovery to our members by providing strength-based care coordination and health promotion activities.
• Assist with referrals and linkage to services to help members meet their personal goals.

Requirements:

• Requires a bachelor’s degree in human services or a related field with one year of working in mental/ behavioral health services.
• Must be 21 years old or older.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and current automobile insurance with no more than 3 violations in the past 3 years.
• Willing and able to transport patients and use personal vehicle for travel.
• Pass the background checks pertaining to criminal, transportation, and abuse registries.
• Basic computer knowledge using Word, Excel, Google Docs, Outlook, and EHR.

Who You Are

• Humble. You lead with humility and empathy, respecting and learning from the perspective of others.
• Persistent. Although it may take a while to achieve a goal, you do not give up.
• Conscientious. You keep your promises, taking your commitments to others seriously, and you have strong integrity.
• Accountable. Work collaboratively with others to ensure high quality client care.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities; attention to detail.

What We Offer

We offer our employees a competitive salary and benefit package.

• This is a Full-Time position.
• Working for a company that values quality, accessible and comprehensive care for the community.
• The benefits:
  – Medical insurance – provided at no cost to the employee.
  – Life Insurance provided.
  – 403(b) plan — 4% of the annual salary with no match requirements after the first year
  – A generous PTO system of 25 days per year, plus 11 paid holidays
  – AFLAC
  – Vison and Dental Packages

Apply Today!

Send your resume to Melia Mura at [email protected]

Job Type: Full-time
Experience: Mental Health: 1 year (Required)

Outrun the Stigma – 4th Annual 5k