Social Services Associate PRN

About the Role

The Social Services Associate assists in gathering information for the Psychosocial Assessment, patients’ 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. This role adheres to Joint Commission, Federal and State Regulations, Oceans' Mission, policies, and performance improvement standards.

Responsibilities

• Provides social service support, education, and resources for patients and families under the supervision of the Director of Social Services.
• 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 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.
• Conducts patient care and discharge planning in accordance with age, disability, and cultural needs, involving the patient’s support system as appropriate.
• 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, and Geriatrics) preferred; internship in chemical dependency also acceptable.
• Knowledge and skills to provide care appropriate to age-related and disability-related needs of patients.
• Understanding of growth and development principles for the patient populations served.
• Ability to assess and interpret patient data to identify needs and provide appropriate care.
• Basic knowledge of mental illness, chemical dependency, and family dynamics.
• Excellent communication skills tailored to age-specific patient needs.
• Demonstrated assessment, supportive communication, and discharge planning skills.
• Ability to pass the general age/disability post-test.
• Versatility, flexibility, and ability to perform in stressful situations.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Capability 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 the time indoors, with protection from weather but not necessarily from temperature changes.