Mental Health Specialist/Safety - Center for Autism and Developmental Disorders | Western Psych[...]

UPMC; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Mental Health Specialist/Safety to join their team at a renowned psychiatric hospital. This role focuses on creating a supportive and therapeutic environment for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities. You will play a crucial part in patient care, safety monitoring, and crisis management, ensuring that individuals receive the best possible support. If you are passionate about mental health and want to make a difference in the lives of others, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Experience in mental health settings preferred.
• Ability to build supportive relationships with patients.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing and maintaining a therapeutic environment.
• Conduct safety rounds and monitor patient behavior.
• Engage patients in educational and recreational activities.

Skills

Patient Care

Safety Monitoring

Crisis Management

Therapeutic Environment Development

Interpersonal Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Psychology or related field

Certification in Mental Health

Job description

The Mental Health Specialist/Safety position is within UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital’s Center for Autism and Developmental Disorders (CADD) inpatient unit. The CADDInpatient Program follows a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and treatment of individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and co-occurring mental health conditions.

The Mental Health Specialist/Safetywill be responsible for assisting in the development and maintenance of a therapeutic environment for patients experiencing emotional disturbance, they will also assistwith the specialized patient care needs of each individual patient using principles of adult development and knowledge of psychopathology.

Responsibilities:

Patient Care

• Follow policies, procedures, and standards of care.
• Build supportive relationships with patients.
• Align with Behavioral Health Center philosophy.
• Recognize patient dysfunction impacts.
• Develop and implement patient care plans.
• Assist with daily personal hygiene tasks.
• Assess social and emotional needs as a team member.
• Understand patients within their family context.
• Plan and engage in educational and recreational activities.

Safety and Security

• Conduct safety rounds and monitor the environment.
• Assist in physical restraints and maintain safety.
• Lead debriefing sessions post-crisis.
• Monitor and document patient behavior changes.
• Engage patients in safety activities.
• Assist with Mental Health Hearings and admissions.
• Ensure safe visiting hours and environment.
• Report unsafe conditions and respond to emergencies.
• Provide safety training and investigate incidents.