Behavioral Health Specialist I - Emergency Services & Crisis Care

About the role

We are seeking an energetic, adaptable, and compassionate professional to serve as a hearing coordinator within our multidisciplinary Emergency Services Unit. This fast-paced team provides crisis intervention and support to individuals experiencing psychiatric emergencies, including those with mental health disorders, substance use disorders, intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD), and co-occurring conditions. The hearing coordinator plays a vital role in coordinating psychiatric placements for voluntary and involuntary clients requiring hospitalization or crisis stabilization services.

Responsibilities

• Manage placement-related administrative processes and facilitate communication among providers.
• Support the coordination of commitment hearings and participate as the CSB’s hearing representative.
• Gather and organize information required to present clients to potential hospitals and Crisis Stabilization Units (CSUs), including Virginia pre-screenings, medical clearance information, copies of Temporary Detention Orders (TDOs), and other documentation.
• Upload relevant documentation into the statewide Virginia Crisis Connect Behavioral Health Link.
• Accurately document hearing outcomes and communicate those outcomes to necessary stakeholders.
• Participate in monthly staff and Behavioral Health Specialists I meetings and collaborate with members of the court system, psychiatrists, and crisis intervention specialists.
• Answer calls, provide care coordination and referrals, and maintain accurate client records in accordance with state and department regulations.
• Enter, track, and manage data accurately and efficiently.
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and community partners.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, sociology, nursing, public health or a related field; OR a bachelor’s degree and a valid Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) or Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) certification.
• CPR certification, within 90 days of appointment and maintained throughout CSB employment.
• Valid motor vehicle driver's license with fewer than six demerit points (or the equivalent in another State) maintained throughout employment with CSB.
• Handle with Care certification (within 3 months of hire).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in behavioral health, crisis services, or a related field.

Skills

• Excellent communication, organization, and time-management skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and collaborate effectively with internal and external partners in a fast-paced crisis environment.
• Strong attention to detail and proactive approach to planning, coordination, and problem-solving.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of stakeholders, including law enforcement, hospital providers and staff, the court system, and other key partners across the state.
• Knowledge of public and private community-based resources.

Benefits

• Foreign language skills stipend of up to $1600/year (full-time) for qualified bilingual employees.
• Clinical supervision for employees who are licensed eligible mental health professionals in one of the following areas: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist.
• License/Certification Reimbursement — reimbursement for job-related licenses and/or certifications once per year.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 15 lbs.
• Observe client behavior and appearance, and review and write progress notes in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) and staff log.
• Independently drive vehicles, and be able to climb stairs, walk, stand, and bend as needed to perform job duties.

Schedule

Position requires shift work that includes some weekends, holiday, and overnight coverage.