Manager Emergency Behavioral Health

WellSpan Health; Lebanon (Lebanon County); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health benefits

Retirement savings plan

Paid time off (PTO)

Education assistance

DailyPay

Expanded Paid Parental Leave

Job summary

WellSpan Health is seeking a senior leader to oversee Emergency Behavioral Health across multiple EDs. You will supervise 24/7 operations, ensure evidence-based, compliant services, and coordinate with hospital leadership and community partners to optimize patient flow and outcomes.

The role requires a Master’s in a behavioral health field, 5 years of related experience, and strong leadership and crisis intervention skills. Travel between sites is expected.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Behavioral Health or related field required.
• 5 years of behavioral health or clinical experience required.
• 1 year in Emergency Department or crisis setting preferred.

Responsibilities

• Directs daily operations of Emergency Behavioral Health services across multiple EDs.
• Ensure high-quality, evidence-based services aligned with standards and regulations.
• Provide leadership, supervision, and performance management for staff.
• Develop staffing plans for 24/7 coverage including weekends and on-call duties.
• Coordinate care with ED staff, hospital leadership, and community partners.
• Oversee intake, assessment, and referral processes for timely access.
• Lead quality improvement initiatives and monitor program performance.
• Participate in recruitment, onboarding, and staff development activities.

Skills

Leadership

Staff management

Crisis intervention

Care coordination

Communication

Process improvement

Education

Master’s Degree in Behavioral Health, Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, or related human services

Job description

Full-time (80 hours biweekly)

Weekdays, daytime hours 7:30 am to 4 pm

On-Call Weekend component

Managing 24/7 Behavioral Health Therapists in the ED at The Good Samaritan and Ephrata Community and Evangelical Hospitals

General Summary

Responsible for the operational leadership, coordination, and oversight of Emergency Behavioral Health services across multiple WellSpan acute care hospital Emergency Departments. Oversees 24/7 operations, staff performance, and service delivery to ensure high-quality, patient-centered, and efficient behavioral health care in emergency settings. Provides leadership to Behavioral Health Therapists while serving as a key liaison between Emergency Departments, hospital leadership, community partners, and internal behavioral health services. Supports clinical operations and may provide limited direct service or consultation as needed to ensure continuity of care and service excellence.

Responsibilities

Duties and Responsibilities

Essential Functions

• Directs and manages the daily operations of Emergency Behavioral Health services across multiple acute care hospital Emergency Departments.
• Ensures consistent delivery of high-quality, evidence-based behavioral health services aligned with organizational standards, regulatory requirements, and best practices.
• Provides leadership, supervision, and performance management for assigned staff.
• Develops staffing plans and schedules to ensure adequate 24/7 coverage across sites, including weekends, holidays, and on-call responsibilities.
• Collaborates with hospital leadership, ED staff, and system partners to coordinate care, resolve operational issues, and improve patient flow and access.
• Acts as a liaison between Emergency Departments, crisis services, community agencies, and internal departments to ensure coordinated and effective care transitions.
• Supports and implements program goals, policies, and procedures; ensures compliance with regulatory, accreditation, and documentation requirements.
• Oversees intake, assessment, and referral processes to ensure timely access to appropriate levels of care.
• Monitors and evaluates program performance through data collection, reporting, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Leads and supports process improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes, reduce length of stay, and improve throughput in the Emergency Department.
• Participates in recruitment, interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and staff development activities.
• Provides clinical consultation, crisis intervention support, and operational assistance during high-volume or complex situations as needed.

Common Expectations

• Maintains compliance with WellSpan Health policies, procedures, and safety standards. Promotes a culture of safety, quality, and patient-centered care. Ensures appropriate documentation and medical record compliance.
• Participates in system committees, leadership meetings, and performance improvement initiatives.
• Maintains professional development through training, education, and industry engagement.

Travel Requirements

• Estimated Amount: 20% - Travel between multiple WellSpan Acute Care Hospitals and as needed patient transport.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Education

• Master’s Degree in Behavioral Health, Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, or related human services field. Required

Work Experience

• 5-years experience in a behavioral health or clinical setting. Required
• 1-year experience in Emergency Department or Crisis setting. Preferred
• 1-year experience working in a medical setting. Preferred

Driver's License Statement

Must possess a valid driver's license in the current state of residence. Driving record must meet requirements established by WellSpan Risk Management.

Courses And Training

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Upon Hire Preferred
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Upon Hire Preferred
• Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) Upon Hire Preferred

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Strong knowledge of behavioral health assessment, crisis intervention, and care coordination.
• Demonstrated leadership and staff management skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage complex, fast-paced environments and respond effectively to crises.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on process improvement and outcomes.
• Ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and hospital systems.

Benefits Offered

• Comprehensive health benefits
• Retirement savings plan
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Education assistance
• Financial education and support, including DailyPay
• Expanded Paid Parental Leave

For additional details: Benefits & Incentives | WellSpan Careers (joinwellspan.org)