JOB FUNCTIONS Under the general direction of the Director of Clinical Services, the Mental Health Specialist is responsible for providing mental health assessment, consultation, and referral services to clients/family members.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Works collaboratively with residential/day program staff, other service providers, and case management staff
Actively works with L.A. County Mental Health programs and Substance Abuse programs regarding treatment issues/barriers, and with identifying local and county resources for clients
Participates in team conferences and reviews assessments and intervention plans completed by other providers/agencies, making recommendations and coordinating appropriate referrals/plans
Evaluates the mental health needs of clients residing in or transitioning to specialized residential behavior homes, who are at risk for losing placement or for psychiatric hospitalization.
Provides training to residential/day program staff, other service providers, families, and regional center staff regarding mental health topics
Performs other related duties as deemed appropriate for this position.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of persons with developmental and mental disabilities; behavior management theory, principles and practices; psychopathology, assessment and treatment, developmental psychology; counseling techniques; crisis intervention; quality management principles; effective training methods; community services and resources.
Develop effective liaison relationships with providers and community organizations.
Demonstrate the ability to independently plan and schedule work
Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing
Must be able to multi-task and set priorities
Must be able to meet strict documentation timelines.
Must be able to interact with others from a wide variety of cultural and social backgrounds
Knowledge of word processing software (Microsoft Word) is required
Examples of Competencies:
Teamwork: values others, cooperates, is flexible, and collaborates. Respectful Communication: has patience, manages own reactions, and ensures understanding.
Professionalism: Respects the Agency and its employees, is positive, responds, follows through, and maintains boundaries.
Acknowledge Differences shows cultural awareness and is mindful of others.
Continuous Learning: Is technically competent, demonstrates good judgment, and maintains and builds own skills
Education and Qualifications Masters’ Degree in Psychology, Counseling, or Social Work, and three years’ experience working with mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment modalities. Extensive knowledge of L.A. County mental health/substance abuse programs is preferred.
Special Requirements
Licensed as an L.M.F.T. or L.C.S.W. by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences is required for this position. Must maintain License in good standing with the State Board.
Other Requirements Employees using a private vehicle for agency purposes must maintain a valid driver's license and minimum liability insurance coverage.
Complete an application at or mail to San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center, 75 Rancho Camino Drive, Pomona CA 91766. Email jobs@sgprc.org. An application will be required for the interview process and can be found at www.sgprc.org.
SAN GABRIEL/POMONA REGIONAL CENTER IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center works in partnership with individuals with developmental disabilities, their families, service providers, and the community, to promote choice, empowerment, independence, and full inclusion into community life.
The Regional Center represents the community in supporting and advancing the intent and entitlement of the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act through services such as assessment, advocacy, service coordination, education, training, communication, resource development and prevention services.