A Mental Health Assistant provides basic care and assistance with daily activities to patients with mental illnesses or cognitive disabilities. Helps patients dress and eat, monitors patients' well-being, and restrains patients if they become physically violent. Works in hospitals or mental health care facilities.
Associate Director of Behavioral Health Job Description:
Incumbent evaluates the needs of the community while leading the social work program development, implementation, monitoring and analysis. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: collaboration amongst service providers, City officials, various advisory groups, citizens, and other government agencies at a local, state, and federal level; facilitating internal and/or external meetings; performing complex analytical duties that include gathering data, data analysis, and developing comprehensive information packages; supervising social work program staff; developing and/or modifying policies and procedures to fit the social work program, all while working closely with the designated Salt Lake City First Responder teams, to supplement existing services where appropriate. This is a professional position in a fast-paced work environment, requiring excellent written and verbal communication skills, the exercise of independent judgment, and discretion in handling confidential information. The incumbent must have the ability and skills necessary to work with the general public in a positive, friendly, and professional manner. Operation of a city-owned vehicle may be required in this role and the candidate may be required to posses a valid driver license.
TYPICAL DUTIES
Direct, oversee, and evaluate the department's social work program addressing homelessness, mental health, and substance abuse issues. Supervise social workers/Social Work Managers (police department only), case workers, and support staff, ensuring performance standards and accountability. Perform ongoing assessments of departmental and community needs; research and apply evidence-based practices to improve program outcomes. Serve as liaison with community organizations, government agencies, and advisory groups. Develop and monitor budgets, approve expenditures, and oversee state and local grant funding. Create and implement program regulations, policies, and schedules; ensure adherence to applicable rules and agreements. Deliver assessments, treatment plans, crisis counseling, therapy, case management, and referrals for individuals and families impacted by crime or social challenges - as aligned with licensure and scope of practice. Collaborate with healthcare professionals and community resources to ensure holistic care and effective case management. Maintain accurate records, reports, and mental health assessments (as aligned with licensure and scope of practice); provide expert testimony and serve as court liaison when required. Address employee grievances and disciplinary issues; partner with leadership to align processes with organizational mission and values. Perform other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Master's degree in Social Work or Mental Health Counseling from an accredited college/university and three years of related work experience, which includes assessing physical, mental, social, and economic needs of a diverse population. Experience must include a minimum of two years of social work case management or similar experience. Experience supervising others. Current licensure with the State of Utah as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC). In lieu of a Master's degree in Social Work or Mental Health counselling and current licensure with the state of Utah as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), must have at least 10-years of experience in co-response and direct service deliver including crisis management. Must possess a valid state driver license or Utah driving privilege card. Demonstrated ability to work independently and to take initiative and work collaboratively as part of a team. Ability to demonstrate strong evaluation skills, excellent professional written and verbal communication skills, interpersonal skills, and active listening skills. Successful completion of a pre-hire physical fitness assessment (Fire Dept only).
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Experience working collaboratively with multiple community organizations (e.g., Law Enforcement, Road Home, Family Justice Center, Schools, Hospitals, and Volunteers of America (VOA)). Fluent in oral and written Spanish communication. Experience conducting community-based needs assessments. Mental Health Officer Certification.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Must stand, walk, or sit uncomfortably for extended periods. Moderate exposure to elements including, but not limited to, heat, cold, dampness, fumes, noise, dust, or grease. Considerable exposure to stressful situations as a result of human behavior. In field operations, exposure to stress as well as occupational hazards is of considerable magnitude. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required of personnel so classified. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
