Social Services Associate

About the Role

The Social Services Associate assists in gathering information for the Psychosocial Assessment, patient resources and support systems, treatment planning needs, and discharge planning. They also provide Psychoeducational Groups under the supervision of the Director of Social Services to further patient, family, and group progress in treatment, adhering to Joint Commission, Federal and State Regulations, Oceans' Mission, policies, and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Provides social service support, education, and resources for patients and families under supervision, following accepted standards and timelines.
• Plans and conducts individual or group psychoeducational sessions as assigned.
• Gathers information for the Comprehensive Integrated Assessment (Biopsychosocial Assessment) within 72 hours (or 3 sessions) of admission for review by a Licensed Therapist.
• Reviews Multidisciplinary assessments and provides input for the Multidisciplinary Treatment Integration within 72 hours of admission.
• Performs case management and discharge planning as assigned.
• Attends treatment team meetings and reports on assigned patients' progress toward treatment goals.
• Identifies age, disability, and cultural needs, including safety, psychosocial, mobility, and equipment requirements, and communicates sensitively with patients and families.
• Conducts patient care and discharge planning in accordance with identified needs, involving the patient's support system in decision-making.
• Performs other duties and projects as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or a related field.
• One year of experience working with mentally ill populations (Adolescent, Adults, Geriatrics) preferred; an internship in the chemical dependency field is acceptable.
• Demonstrated knowledge and skills to provide care appropriate to the age, disability, and cultural needs of assigned patients.
• Understanding of growth and development principles for the served patient population.
• Ability to assess and interpret patient data to identify needs and provide appropriate care.
• Basic knowledge of mental illness, chemical dependency, and related family dynamics.
• Excellent communication skills tailored to age-specific patient needs.
• Demonstrated assessment, supportive communication, and discharge planning skills.
• Ability to pass a general age/disability post-test.
• Versatility, flexibility, and ability to perform in stressful situations.
• Strong time management and organizational skills, with the ability to coordinate a multi-faceted workload.
• Experience working with individuals with mental and physical disabilities.
• Commitment to delivering patient services ethically, promoting respect, dignity, and satisfaction.
• Must complete BLS certification and an Oceans-approved behavioral de-escalation program.

Work Environment

• Subject to frequent interruptions and occasional pressure due to multiple calls and inquiries.
• High-paced and potentially stressful environment; requires mental and physical coping abilities.
• Spends approximately 90% or more of time indoors, with protection from weather but not necessarily from temperature changes.