A Mental or Behavioral Health Counselor works with patients to treat mental health problems. Assesses patients and assists with diagnosis, counseling and crisis intervention. Consults with nurses, doctors and psychiatrists. May work with specific populations, such as youth, senior citizens or substance abusers, in group settings, facilities or hospitals.
Sign- On Bonus Medical ( Employer covers 90% of premium and 100% of deductible) Dental Vision Short Term and Long Term disability Optional FSA, Aflac Paid Time Off Employee Assistance Program Life Insurance 401k with Matching Flexible Schedule $4,000 Sign-On Bonus 10 hour shifts, 10pm-8am (30 or 40 hour positions available) 2 Weeks Vacation
COMPETITIVE BENEFITS PROGRAM
Employer covers 90% of health insurance premiums Employer covers 100% of deductible through Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
JOB SUMMARY
The Licensed Clinician (LC) for the Supportive Crisis Stabilization Center (SCSC) plays a crucial role in providing comprehensive, evidence-based clinical support within a certified
OMH/OASAS
crisis facility. The SCSC is a 24/7/365 program serving individuals experiencing Mental Health/Substance Use Disorder (MH/SUD) crises. The center provides immediate therapeutic support through certified peers and licensed behavioral health professionals. The LC will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to triage, assess, develop treatment plans, and implement interventions to support individuals experiencing acute mental health crises and substance use challenges. This role requires a compassionate, person-centered approach, strong clinical skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with other professionals and community providers.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Participate in the daily operations of the certified SCSC, supporting individuals experiencing Mental Health/Substance Use Disorder (MH/SUD) challenges. Participate in all stages of client access to the SCSC, including intake, assessments, treatment plan development, referrals, and discharge planning as part of a multidisciplinary team. Complete thorough, strength-based, person-centered, and trauma-informed psychosocial assessments and clinical evaluations. Develop Individual Service Plans (ISPs) with clients and collaborate with the multidisciplinary team to support implementation. Create Safety Plans and/or Wellness Plans with clients and collaborate with the multidisciplinary team as appropriate. Provide care coordination services, including connecting clients and families to community resources such as mental health services, substance use services, peer support, medical care, housing, financial resources, legal resources, food, and clothing assistance. Maintain ongoing communication with community partners, healthcare providers, social service professionals, criminal justice personnel, and community organizations. Assist clients with transportation needs and provide education on accessing transportation supports. Provide ongoing client observation and support in collaboration with the client and multidisciplinary team. Provide therapeutic interventions, including psychoeducation, crisis counseling, de-escalation, bridging and transition support, care collaboration, family support and engagement, health and wellness coaching, outreach and engagement, peer support, prevention planning, overdose prevention, psychosocial assessment, skills development, wellness and safety planning, and WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan). Follow OMH and OASAS regulatory requirements for program operations. Follow all MHAST policies and procedures. Ensure cleanliness, maintenance, and adequate supplies/inventory within the facility. Maintain a welcoming, calming, safe, and secure environment for clients and staff. Collaborate with MHAST programs to provide continuity of care upon client discharge. Collaborate with community partners and agencies involved with SCSC services, including law enforcement, healthcare providers, mental health services, addiction services, and transportation providers. Attend MHAST staff meetings, trainings, and required educational opportunities. Cooperate with audits, inspections, and investigations. Provide flexibility to cover shifts when needed due to call-ins or scheduling needs.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Crisis center facility setting, program/activity setting, and office environment. Some exposure to cleaning products and chemicals may occur. Physical requirements include walking, bending, standing, climbing stairs, and lifting light/medium weight items (up to 50 pounds). Travel may be required for trainings, meetings, or between MHAST locations. Flexible scheduling may be required based on staffing needs. This job description provides a summary of typical job functions and is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities and duties. Responsibilities may vary, and additional duties may be assigned as needed. MHAST reserves the right to amend this job description at any time. MHAST is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to inclusive employment practices that represent and support a diverse workforce. MHAST also values and welcomes individuals with lived experience, including mental health and substance use disorder experiences. Peer employees with lived experience are representative of the populations served by MHAST programs, and their contributions are recognized as an essential part of supporting recovery and success within the mental health field.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum of Master's degree in social work or related field; current NYS license required;
LMSW/LCSW
preferred. (Clinical supervision is provided). Minimum of two years work experience providing mental health treatment to individuals with a mental health condition. Competence to engage and treat children and adolescents; at least 2 years of direct care experience working with children and families. Obtain the NYS Peer Specialist Certification within the 90-day orientation period. Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record to drive an agency vehicle. Successfully complete all agency required background and reference checks. Complete all state/agency required trainings during orientation period, and annually, as required. Maintain strict confidentiality and professional boundaries. Support the mission and vision of
MHAST. KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES
Experience providing mental health services to individuals with a mental health condition. Knowledge of Substance Use Disorders (SUD) issues facing individuals in the community. Ability to handle crisis situations, traumatic events, or sensitive circumstances, support and advocate for individuals in crisis. Knowledge of community resources, services, and systems to assist individuals with Social Determinants Of Health (SDOH) needs. Understanding and sensitivity to support a diverse client population (race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, etc.). Trauma Informed, Person Centered. Experience with EMR/EHR systems. Knowledge of Medicaid/MCO billing. Knowledge of OMH and OASAS Regulations. Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Teams, etc.). Excellent organizational skills, detail-oriented.