Intake and Referral Specialist

The Ness Center; Mandeville (LA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ness Center in the United States is seeking an Intake and Referral Specialist to be the first point of contact for individuals seeking services. You will conduct intake conversations, assess eligibility, and determine the best program fit while maintaining compassionate, professional communication and strict confidentiality.

Ideal candidates will have strong verbal and written communication skills, solid listening abilities, and the capacity to gather information accurately.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred; relevant experience may substitute.
• Master's in Social Work or Clinical Psychology pursuing licensure encouraged.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent listening and information-gathering abilities.
• Ability to assess information, exercise sound judgment, and identify service options.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Compassion, professionalism, and appropriate boundaries when discussing sensitive matters.

Responsibilities

• Respond to incoming referral calls and inquiries from individuals, families, providers, and partners.
• Conduct 30–40 minute intake appointments to gather information about needs and goals.
• Assess preliminary program eligibility and identify suitable options.
• Explain available programs, services, and admission requirements.
• Document intake information and maintain referral records.
• Coordinate with program staff to facilitate referrals and next steps.
• Communicate professionally and compassionately with diverse individuals.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with policies and requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Listening

Information gathering

Judgment

Organizational skills

Computer proficiency

Boundaries & professionalism

Compassion

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Work or related field

Pursuing MSW/PLPC licensure (LMSW/PLPC) encouraged

Job description

Position Title: Intake and Referral Specialist

Facility: The Ness Center

Status: Full Time, Non-Exempt/Hourly

Schedule: Mon-Fri

POSITION SUMMARY

The Intake and Referral Specialist serves as the first point of contact for individuals and families seeking services through The Ness Center. This position responds to referral calls, gathers information, and conducts intake appointments lasting approximately 30 to 40 minutes to understand each individual's needs, assess program eligibility, and determine which of The Ness Center's programs may be the best fit.

The ideal candidate is compassionate, professional, and comfortable having meaningful conversations with individuals who may be experiencing challenging circumstances. This role requires strong communication skills, sound judgment, professional boundaries, attention to detail, and a genuine interest in helping people access the support and services they need.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Respond to incoming referral calls and inquiries from individuals, families, providers, and community partners.

• Conduct 30 to 40-minute intake appointments to gather information about an individual's needs, circumstances, and service goals.

• Assess preliminary program eligibility and identify the most appropriate program or service options.

• Explain available programs, services, and admission requirements.

• Document intake information accurately and maintain organized referral records.

• Coordinate with program staff to facilitate appropriate referrals and next steps.

• Communicate professionally and compassionately with individuals from diverse backgrounds and circumstances.

• Maintain confidentiality and comply with organizational policies and applicable requirements.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field preferred; relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

• Individuals pursuing a master's degree in Social Work or Clinical Psychology, with the goal of obtaining clinical licensure as an LMSW or PLPC, are strongly encouraged to apply.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Excellent listening, interviewing, and information-gathering abilities.

• Ability to assess information, exercise sound judgment, and recognize appropriate service options.

• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic computer proficiency.

• Compassion, professionalism, and the ability to maintain appropriate boundaries when discussing sensitive or personal matters.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligible employer as a 501(c)(3) non-profit

Equal Opportunity Employer

Northlake Behavioral Health System is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or class.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability. Applicants are entitled to reasonable accommodations, absent undue hardship, to effectively participate in the application and hiring process. For accommodation requests, please contact [e-mail].