Crisis Intake Case Manager - Days
About Claratel Behavioral Health
Claratel Behavioral Health is an innovative, community-based behavioral health and developmental disabilities services organization offering a full range of mental health, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorder services to underserved individuals. As a public, not-for-profit organization, Claratel Behavioral Health operates in more than 20 locations in DeKalb County, Georgia, with a diverse workforce of more than 400 direct-care and support staff.
Position Summary
The Case Manager (Paraprofessional) provides direct client support across both Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) and Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU). This role includes intake/triage responsibilities in PES and treatment, support, and discharge coordination in CSU, ensuring continuity of care from admission through transition. Case Managers work closely with multidisciplinary teams to assess psychosocial needs, coordinate services, facilitate groups, and link clients to appropriate community resources.
Key Responsibilities
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- Greet and engage clients presenting to PES, including walk-ins, law enforcement drop-offs, and emergency referrals.
- Collect demographic, psychosocial, and insurance information at intake.
- Obtain and record vital signs; screen for immediate safety risks and medical/psychiatric needs.
- Support clinicians and nurses in determining acuity and appropriate level of care.
- Ensure personal belongings are secured and conduct safety checks in accordance with PES policy.
- Absorb and record involuntary admission paperwork (1013/1014/1021) as directed.
- Ongoing Support & Monitoring (CSU & PES)
- Conduct daily assessments of client needs, barriers, and psychosocial stressors.
- Review and update Individual Treatment Plans to reflect client progress and treatment team goals.
- Provide 1:1 support, behavioral coaching, and crisis de-escalation as needed.
- Observe, document, and report changes in client status to clinical staff.
- Treatment & Group Facilitation (CSU)
- Facilitate psychoeducational, skills-based, and recovery-oriented groups.
- Document attendance, participation, and therapeutic response in accordance with policy.
- Support clients in developing WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plans) and SNAP (Safety Needs and Action Plans).
- Provide education on coping strategies, self-care, and available community resources.
- Discharge Planning & Care Coordination (CSU)
- Assist clients in securing short- and long-term placements (e.g., shelters, group homes, inpatient facilities).
- Coordinate follow-up appointments with psychiatric, medical, or substance use providers.
- Arrange transportation for clients who cannot arrange their own.
- Conduct family meetings to support discharge planning when appropriate.
- Complete discharge documentation and ensure all authorizations and referrals are submitted timely.
- Administration & Compliance
- Enter accurate service authorizations, reauthorizations, and concurrent requests into the EHR.
- Maintain timely, accurate, and detailed documentation of all client interactions.
- Attend daily treatment team meetings and shift reports, contributing case management updates.
- Complete incident reports as necessary, ensuring accurate and timely submission.
- Maintain certifications in CPR, First Aid, CPI Training, and MindSet Training.
Qualifications
- Skills, Competencies, and Licensure Requirements:
- Proficiency in electronic documentation and computer systems.
- Ability to take and record vital signs.
- Must maintain a valid 3-year Motor Vehicle Report for agency vehicle use.
- Strong de-escalation and behavioral management skills.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills.
- Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field.
- Preferred Qualifications:
- One (1) year of experience in behavioral health, substance use disorder treatment, or crisis stabilization preferred.
- Prior experience in triage, intake, or case management in a psychiatric setting is strongly preferred.
- Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) or Counseling.