Director of Nursing - Mental Health

Company: Alter Behavioral Health

Job Title: Director of Nursing, Client Medical Services

Location: All Facilities

Shift: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5pm

Reports to: Chief Clinical Officer

Direct Reports: All Nursing Staff

FLSA Status: Full-Time, Salary Exempt

Company Overview:

Alter Behavioral Health is an innovative, evidence-based treatment program specifically designed to treat primary mental health diagnoses. Our mission is to provide the highest level of personalized care and treatment to every individual seeking support to restore and maintain their highest level of functioning. Our dedicated team of professionals employ a comprehensive, multidimensional approach to create a more well-rounded and personalized experience for each individual seeking treatment.

Job Summary:

The Director of Nursing at Alter Behavioral Health is a strategic and operational leader responsible for the comprehensive oversight and management of all client medical services across the organization. This role ensures the delivery of high-quality, safe, and effective nursing care in alignment with Alter Behavioral Health's mission, values, and regulatory requirements. The Director provides leadership, strategic direction, and operational management to the Nursing Manager and Nursing Leads, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. This position requires a seasoned nursing professional with extensive experience in behavioral health, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to client-centered care.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Leadership and Strategic Planning:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan for client medical services, aligning with the organization's overall goals and objectives.
• Provide clinical leadership and expertise to ensure the delivery of evidence-based nursing care for clients with complex behavioral health needs.
• Collaborate with the Medical Director, Nurse Practitioners and other members of the interdisciplinary team to develop and implement clinical protocols and guidelines.
• Stay abreast of current trends and best practices in behavioral health nursing and incorporate them into clinical practice.
• Lead the development and implementation of quality improvement initiatives to enhance client safety and clinical outcomes.
• Participate in the development and implementation of policies and procedures related to client medical services.
• Serve as a clinical resource and consultant to staff on complex medical and nursing issues.
• Attended weekly treatment team to collaborate with all departments regarding client care.

Operational Management and Oversight:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of client medical services across all Alter Behavioral Health programs and locations.
• Manage the budget for client medical services, ensuring efficient resource allocation and cost-effectiveness.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance of nursing staff, ensuring adherence to established standards and protocols.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, as well as accreditation standards.
• Develop and implement systems for monitoring and tracking client medical data and outcomes.
• Oversee the procurement and management of medical supplies and equipment.
• Ensure proper documentation of all client medical services.
• Manage crisis situations and provide guidance to staff in handling medical emergencies.
• Ensure all medical safety protocols are implemented and regularly reviewed.

Staff Management and Development:

• Provide direct supervision and mentorship to the Nursing Manager and Nursing Leads.
• Recruit, hire, and onboard qualified nursing staff.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive training and development program for nursing staff, including continuing education and competency assessments.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide feedback to nursing staff.
• Foster a positive and supportive work environment that promotes teamwork, collaboration, and professional growth.
• Address staff performance issues and implement corrective action as needed.
• Ensure adequate staffing levels to meet the needs of clients.
• Promote a culture of safety and accountability among nursing staff.

Client Care and Advocacy:

• Ensure the delivery of client-centered care that meets the individual needs of clients.
• Advocate for the rights and needs of clients and their families.
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to develop and implement individualized treatment plans.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of nursing interventions and make adjustments as needed.
• Provide education and support to clients and their families regarding medical conditions and treatment options.
• Ensure that all client medical concerns are addressed in a timely and effective manner.
• Maintain open communication with clients, families, and other members of the interdisciplinary team.

Interdepartmental Collaboration and Communication:

• Collaborate with other departments, including admissions, therapy, and residential services, to ensure seamless coordination of care.
• Communicate effectively with all members of the interdisciplinary team, including physicians, therapists, and case managers.
• Represent the nursing department at interdisciplinary team meetings and other organizational meetings.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with external stakeholders, including hospitals, clinics, and community agencies.
• Work closely with the medical director to provide seamless medical care.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and reach.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to use a computer and other office equipment.

Minimum Qualifications & Requirements:

• Registered Nurse (RN) with a current, unrestricted license in the state of operation.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) required.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive nursing leadership experience, preferably in a behavioral health setting.
• Extensive knowledge of behavioral health nursing principles and practices.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and accreditation standards.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement clinical protocols and guidelines.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) systems.
• Certification in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing (PMHN) preferred.
• Experience in management of a budget.
• Experience in quality improvement initiatives.
• Travel to all facilities required.

Regulatory & Compliance Expectations:

• Maintain compliance with all state and federal regulations, including DHCS, DSS, and Joint Commission standards.
• Follow company policies on safety, confidentiality, and ethical conduct.
• Participate in audits, training, and continuous quality improvement efforts.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary: $120-132k/year DOE
• Benefits (Eligible after 30 Days of Employment):
• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
• 401(k) 6% Match (after 90 days)
• Life Insurance
• Paid Time Off

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $150,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) 6% Match
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Medical Specialty:

• Psychiatry

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Weekends as needed

Application Question(s):

• As part of our hiring process, all potential employees must meet compliance requirements, including a background check, DOJ Live Scan fingerprinting, and drug screening. Do you anticipate any issues with these items if offered the position?

Experience:

• Nursing Leadership: 3 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• RN License (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $120,000 - $132,000