Intake Counselor

Job Summary

You will serve as the crucial first point of contact for our clients, guiding them through the initial stages of our services with empathy and efficiency. Every day you will manage incoming inquiries, conduct initial assessments, gather relevant client information, and explain our services and processes. You will be expected to accurately document client needs, determine eligibility, schedule appointments, and coordinate with other departments to ensure a smooth transition for new clients, all while maintaining strict confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Processes telephone inquiries by screening calls for needed intensity of service and caller's insurance coverage.
• Congnates clinical assessments performed by Crisis Team or psychiatrists, admissions and referrals to appropriate community resources.
• For inpatient admissions, the counselor acts as a liaison with the physician, insurance company, business office, U.R., and unit staff.
• Maintains good communication with community agencies that refer patients to the Call center.
• Contributes to the ongoing development of new referral sources.
• Maintains effective communication with, and serves as liaison between patient, families, program staff, doctors, Crisis Team, and community resources.
• Generates daily reports for Case Management, social service, physicians, and PHP.

Job Requirements

• Required: Two years healthcare experience
• Preferred: Experience in mental health or addiction medicine setting
• Prioritize: Bachelor's degree in psychology, social service, counseling, or a related field

Where You'll Work

Founded in 1955, Dignity Health - Northridge Hospital Medical Center is a 394-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located. Serving over 80,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including a Level II Trauma Center, heart care, cancer care and women’s health. It is the only pediatric trauma center in the San Fernando Valley. Additionally, Northridge Hospital Medical Center has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. It is a Joint Commission-certified Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center and has been recognized as one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals by Healthgrades in 2026.