Behavioral Health Specialist - Full time, Part time, Flex/PRN

Garfield Park Behavioral Hospital; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in mental health care is seeking a dedicated Behavioral Health Specialist. This role involves providing essential patient care under the guidance of a registered nurse, ensuring a safe and therapeutic environment. Key responsibilities include crisis intervention, monitoring patient safety, and assisting with daily living activities. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mental health, showcasing effective communication skills and the ability to foster therapeutic relationships. Join a supportive team committed to excellence in patient care and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED with 5+ years of psychiatric experience.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform crisis intervention and monitor patient safety.
• Communicate effectively and assist with daily living activities.

Skills

Crisis Intervention Techniques

Therapeutic Communication

Patient Safety Monitoring

Activities of Daily Living Assistance

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology

Job description

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Job Summary

The Mental Health Specialist provides direct patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse. Primary responsibilities include the provision of a safe and therapeutic milieu, crisis intervention, and activities of daily living.

Responsibilities

• Perform all crisis intervention techniques (verbal and physical) and respond to code situations
• Monitor and ensure patient safety at all times via continuous Q15 minute rounding
• Therapeutically communicate with patients
• Recognize and communicate the physical and psychological status of the patients under their care
• Assist patients with Activities of Daily Living when necessary

Qualifications

Education: High School diploma or GED required, with 5+ years of related psychiatric experience. Associates Degree accepted along with comparable experience.

Experience: One-year experience working within the mental health field, or equivalent college coursework or internship experience.

Licensure/Certification: State of IL EMT & Paramedic Certificate

Qualifications Desired

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology or related field strongly preferred.

Experience: One-year experience in an inpatient psychiatric hospital with children, adolescents, and adults. Prior experience with crisis intervention techniques, conducting group therapy sessions, performing vital signs, and documenting nursing progress notes.

Essential Job Functions

• Perform crisis intervention techniques and respond to code situations
• Monitor patient safety through continuous rounding
• Communicate effectively with patients
• Recognize and communicate physical and psychological patient status
• Assist with Activities of Daily Living as needed

Nonessential Job Functions

• Maintain a clean work environment
• Transport patients when needed
• Perform vital signs
• Perform other duties as assigned

Success Factors/Job Competencies

• Build positive therapeutic relationships
• Provide service excellence
• Use least restrictive measures
• Maintain clear documentation
• Adhere to attendance policies

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Exposure to potentially violent or aggressive patients, communicable diseases, and hazardous waste. Physical agility needed to manage patients during interventions. Ability to lift up to 40 pounds, perform visual and auditory observations, and communicate effectively. Drug-free environment.