Behavioral Health Navigator I - UPMC McKeesport

UPMC; McKeesport (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in healthcare is seeking a dedicated Behavioral Health Navigator I to join their team. This role involves assessing and supporting patients and families in need of psychiatric services, ensuring they receive the appropriate care in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills and a compassionate approach, working collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of those navigating mental health challenges while providing essential support and resources. Flexibility in scheduling is required, with rotating shifts to meet patient needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's in Psychology or related field with mental health experience.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to manage stress.

Responsibilities

• Conduct psychiatric assessments and develop care plans.
• Coordinate with interdisciplinary teams and manage patient scheduling.

Skills

Psychiatric assessments

Communication skills

Crisis intervention

Insurance processes

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Psychology

Master's Degree in Counseling

Tools

DSM-5

Clinical documentation software

Job description

Behavioral Health Navigator I - UPMC McKeesport

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Overview

The Behavioral Health Navigation team at Western Psychiatric Hospital is hiring a Behavioral Health Navigator I to support UPMC McKeesport. The role involves assessing and navigating patients and families in need of psychiatric services in the emergency department, including conducting psychiatric assessments, discharge and safety planning, and coordinating individualized care plans.

Responsibilities

• Complete clinical documentation and assessments (psychiatric, MOCA, commitment status, suicide assessment).
• Use DSM-5 for provisional diagnosis.
• Understand mental health laws and manage legal commitment status.
• Knowledge of insurance processes and obtaining authorizations.
• Participate in interdisciplinary activities and maintain certifications (CISM, Positive Approaches, CALM, CPR, ASAM).
• Utilize technology for patient care and referral planning.
• Handle high call volumes and manage outpatient scheduling.
• Respond quickly to appointment and admission requests.
• Review and summarize patient medical necessity for admissions.
• Provide verbal case presentations and demonstrate triage skills.
• Communicate accurately and professionally with coworkers, physicians, and agencies.
• Access social systems and provide resource information to patients and families.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Counseling, or Social Work with one-year of mental health direct care experience OR master's degree in these fields.
• Relevant coursework or experience in human services or mental health.
• Ability to respond calmly and effectively to psychiatric and medical emergencies.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to work under stress in a busy environment.
• Warm, friendly, caring disposition and openness to learning.
• Flexible schedule with rotating shifts.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances

• CPR, CCMC, Act 31, Act 33, Act 34, Act 73 FBI Clearance (all with renewal).

Additional Information

Position requires flexibility to work three 12-hour rotating shifts, including days, evenings, and nights. Candidates must be able to work in environments where medications are stored but are not permitted to contact medications. UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.