RN Director of Behavioral Health

About the role

The Director of Behavioral Health is responsible for overseeing, establishing, and planning the department's overall policies and goals. This role involves patient assessments and care planning, as well as assisting patients and their families in adjusting to new environments. A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected as they rely on their experience and judgment to accomplish goals and lead others. The director is familiar with a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures, and typically reports to top management. At Lower Keys Medical Center, we’re more than healthcare providers, we’re a team dedicated to compassionate care and community wellness. Join us for a supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a real difference in the lives of our patients every day. Your skills, your passion, and your commitment matter here.

Responsibilities

• Provides strategic direction and operational oversight for all Behavioral Health services, ensuring alignment with hospital and system-wide goals.
• Oversees patient assessment, treatment planning, and discharge processes to ensure individualized, clinically appropriate, and coordinated care.
• Collaborates with medical staff, nursing, social services, and ancillary departments to coordinate and optimize patient care delivery.
• Monitors clinical and operational outcomes, including quality indicators, patient satisfaction, length of stay, and readmission rates; develops action plans for improvement as needed.
• Maintains oversight of patient safety, seclusion/restraint practices, and crisis intervention procedures to ensure adherence to regulatory standards and patient rights.
• Collaborates with case management and community agencies to facilitate appropriate patient transitions and continuity of care.
• Serves as a clinical resource for staff in the management of complex psychiatric or behavioral cases.
• Coordinates with risk management and quality departments to investigate and address behavioral health-related incidents, trends, or performance gaps.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Requirements

Licenses and Certifications: RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure Registered Nurse required or LMSW - Licensed Medical Social Worker - State Licensure required

Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in relevant field required or Seven (7) plus years of direct experience in lieu of a Bachelor's degree required; Master's Degree preferred; 3-5 years of experience in closely related field with Bachelor's degree required; 3-5 years of previous leadership experience preferred.

Skills

• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and manage cross-functional relationships.
• Foster a positive work environment that promotes teamwork, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
• Communicate effectively with leadership, team members, and stakeholders.
• Ability to work effectively with others, delegate responsibilities, and independently manage tasks while meeting established deadlines.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• In depth knowledge of industry best practices and regulatory compliance (if applicable).
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency with Google and Microsoft platforms, healthcare software systems, and data analysis tools.

Benefits

• Competitive Compensation – Salary and benefits package designed to reward your expertise, leadership, and contributions.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage – Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance options to support you and your family.
• Future Security – 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching to help you build long-term financial stability.
• Generous Paid Time Off – Paid Time Off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank (EIB