Behavioral Health Outreach Specialist

Behavioral Health Outreach Specialist - Decatur, Illinois Full-Time | Every Other Friday Off (Paid Wellness Day) Heritage Behavioral Health Center is seeking a mission-driven Behavioral Health Outreach Specialist to join our expanding community-based team. In this role, you will provide person-centered outreach, early intervention, and supportive services to adolescents and adults experiencing high-risk substance use, severe mental health symptoms, and individuals presenting with first-episode psychosis. This position meets clients where they are-in homes, community settings, hospitals, shelters, and other natural environments-to promote stability, independence, and meaningful recovery. Core Responsibilities Provide individualized, recovery-focused outreach in community settings, including to individuals disengaged from services. Assist clients with developing daily living skills, symptom management strategies, and community integration skills. Provide early intervention and support for individuals experiencing first-episode psychosis. Collaborate with social service agencies, healthcare providers, crisis teams, and community partners. Support clients in navigating benefits, housing, transportation, and employment-related services. Complete accurate, timely documentation in compliance with agency and regulatory standards. Monitor progress and adjust interventions based on client needs and goals. Provide crisis response, de-escalation, and safety planning in the community. Advocate for client needs while promoting empowerment and self-determination. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge Understanding of substance use disorders, harm reduction, recovery principles, and community-based models of care. Familiarity with symptoms associated with severe mental illness, including psychosis and co-occurring disorders. Knowledge of local social service systems, healthcare networks, and benefits programs. Skills Strong communication and interpersonal skills with diverse populations. Ability to build trust, engage clients, and maintain professional boundaries. Excellent time management and organizational skills. Skills in crisis intervention, de-escalation, and effective problem-solving. Abilities Work independently in community settings with consistent accountability. Adapt to changing client needs and dynamic environments. Use technology for documentation and communication. Demonstrate cultural competence and sensitivity to individual differences. Qualifications High School Diploma or equivalent plus 5 years of supervised mental health or social service experience Bachelor s degree in social work, psychology, education, or human services preferred Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) credential through

IAODAPCA

Minimum age of 21 Valid driver s license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance Salary High School + 5

Years Experience:

$23.00/hour + Every Other Friday Paid Off Bachelor s

Degree:

$25.00/hour + Every Other Friday Paid Off Schedule Full-Time - Every other Friday off (paid wellness day) About Heritage Behavioral Health Center Heritage is a mission-driven Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) serving individuals across a multi-county region in Central Illinois. We believe all staff-regardless of role-directly contribute to high-quality, person-centered care. Why You ll Love Working Here Collaborative, supportive, mission-driven culture Every other Friday off - paid wellness days Competitive salaries aligned with state and national benchmarks Loan forgiveness eligibility through NHSC Comprehensive Benefits Time Off Generous vacation, sick, personal, and holiday leave Wellness Every other Friday off (paid) Fitness reimbursement Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Insurance Health, dental, and vision Flexible Spending Accounts (healthcare & dependent care) Additional life insurance options Substantial agency contributions toward health insurance premiums Retirement 401(k) and Roth options Professional Growth Tuition assistance Continuing education opportunities Loan Forgiveness Eligible through the National Health Service Corps