Intake & Evaluation Screener (I&E Screener) - Full Time

South County Mental Health Center, Inc.; Florida; On-site; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

South County Mental Health Center, Inc. is seeking an Intake & Evaluation Screener to support diversion, linkage, and care coordination for individuals in the criminal justice and behavioral health systems.

The role focuses on directing clients to appropriate mental health services and reducing unnecessary hospital admissions. The ideal candidate has forensic mental health experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to collaborate with courts, public defenders, and community

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or related field.
• Minimum three (3) years of experience in a mental health setting.
• At least one (1) year of court or forensic-related experience.
• Working knowledge of Florida Statutes 916 and 394.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Diversion and community placement coordination with care teams.
• Coordinate with State Attorney’s Office and Public Defender’s Office as needed.
• Attend Mental Health Court proceedings as required.
• Gather information on charges, mental health history, and treatment needs.
• Prepare referrals for intake, housing, and outpatient services.

Skills

Communication skills

Forensic mental health experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or related field

Master’s degree in Human Services or related field

Job description

Position Summary

South County Mental Health Center, Inc. is seeking a knowledgeable and compassionate Intake & Evaluation Screener (I&E Screener)to support diversion, linkage, and care coordination services for individuals involved in criminal justice and behavioral health systems. This role focuses on helping individuals access the most appropriate level of mental health care, reducing unnecessary state hospital admissions, and coordinating transitions back into the community. The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, forensic mental health experience, and the ability to collaborate with multiple community stakeholders.

About Us

South County Mental Health Center, Inc. is a private, non-profit, Joint Commission-accredited behavioral healthcare provider serving Southeast Palm Beach County. We are dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality mental health services to individuals and families in our community.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or related field
• Minimum three (3) years of experience in a mental health setting
• At least one (1) year of court or forensic-related experience
• Working knowledge of Florida Statutes 916 and 394
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Basic computer proficiency including documentation and correspondence

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Human Services or related field
• Experience working with mentally ill offenders involved in the criminal justice system
• Certified Criminal Justice Specialist or Forensic Counselor through ACCFC or NAFC
• Experience collaborating with courts, hospitals, and community agencies

Duties and Responsibilities

Diversion & Community Placement Coordination

• Assist in diverting individuals awaiting admission to State Mental Health Treatment Facilities (SMHTFs) to the most appropriate community setting
• Evaluate client needs and identify alternatives to hospitalization when clinically appropriate
• Coordinate community resources and treatment options for eligible individuals
• Support successful transitions from state facilities back into community care
  Criminal Justice & Court Collaboration
• Coordinate with the State Attorney’s Office and Public Defender’s Office regarding client cases
• Attend Mental Health Court proceedings as needed
• Participate in I&E team meetings and weekly case review meetings
• Provide updates and recommendations to stakeholders involved in client care
  Intake, Linkage & Transitional Services
• Gather available information related to charges, mental health history, and treatment needs
• Coordinate discharge calls with hospitals and partnering agencies
• Complete referrals for intake, medication clinic, housing, and outpatient services
• Facilitate face-to-face meetings and hospital visits as needed
• Process transitional vouchers and related service authorizations
  Documentation & Reporting
• Maintain timely and accurate client records
• Prepare letters addressed to the court and required case correspondence
• Complete monthly reports and program documentation
• Ensure compliance with agency, state, and regulatory requirements
  Other Duties
• Perform other assignments and delegated responsibilities as directed by supervisor

Core Competencies

• Strong understanding of forensic mental health systems
• Knowledge of severe and persistent mental illness populations
• Ability to navigate criminal justice and behavioral health systems
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong case coordination and problem-solving abilities
• Professional judgment and confidentiality
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Physical Demands

• Primarily sedentary work with frequent standing and walking
• Ability to use computers, phones, and office equipment
• May require travel to courts, hospitals, or community agencies

Working Conditions

• Office, court, hospital, and community-based settings
• Frequent interaction with behavioral health clients and justice system stakeholders
• Standard business hours with occasional schedule flexibility based on court or discharge needs

Performance Standards

Performance will be evaluated based on:

• Successful diversion and linkage outcomes
• Timeliness and accuracy of documentation
• Effective coordination with courts and community partners
• Client engagement and continuity of care
• Compliance with policies and procedures

Schedule & Work Details

Full-Time Position
Hours: 12am - 8:30am
Location: In-person (Belle Glade, FL)
Pay: $20/hour for bachelor’s, $25/hour for master’s

Additional Information

Background check required
Drug-free workplace
Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Because of the work we do in the community, a full background check is required for all staff.

We are a drug free employer.

South County Mental Health Center, Inc is an EOE.