What are the responsibilities and job description for the Older Adult Mental Health Specialist position at Jewish Family Service?
WHY JOIN JFS?
For more than 150 years, Jewish Family Services of Western New York has been committed to providing high quality services to all in need in the interest of helping to "repair the world." Our services are guided by the essential connection between mental well-being, physical wellness, and positive self-worth. Our reputation is the result of our exceptional staff. In addition to offering competitive compensation and truly exceptional benefits, we are committed to providing a supportive, inclusive work environment in which all employees are able to contribute their best.
OUR VALUES
Be a Mensch – A person who is ethical, decent, and admirable. It’s someone who acts with integrity and honor, often showing kindness and consideration towards others. Being called a Mensch is a compliment suggesting that one’s character is upright, responsible, and morally sound.
Be Person-Centered – Meeting individuals where they are at.
Be Culturally Responsive – Creating purpose-built spaces and programs for our clients that respect their culture.
Be Resolute – Tenacity, solution-seeking, and getting stuff done.
SUMMARY
The Older Adult Mental Health Specialist provides mental health assessment and linkage to appropriate community resources to individuals referred by Erie County Senior Services including Mental Health Counseling, Case Management, and Peer Supports based on individual request and need.
RESPONSIBILITES & DUTIES
A representative summary of tasks to be performed is provided below. The employee may be asked to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically stated in this description. The duties and responsibilities of the position are to be carried out in a manner that is consistent with the mission, values, and operating principles of Jewish Family Services.
- Conduct thorough assessments of older adults to evaluate their mental health status, including screening for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and other psychiatric conditions to provide a DSM-V/ICD 10 diagnosis for each client.
- Utilize standardized assessment tools, clinical interviews, and collateral information from caregivers or family members to gather comprehensive data.
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals and interdisciplinary teams to provide linkage to appropriate community resources and services.
- Communicate assessment findings clearly and effectively to client and referral source(s) to insure effective services delivery and linkages
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including all electronic record systems.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
- Master’s Degree from a recognized Graduate School of Social Work or Mental Health Counseling
- NYS Certification as follows: LMSW, LMHC, LCSW, LCSW R
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Demonstrates knowledge upon which direct service and clinical advisement is based.
- Knowledge and experience with evidence-based practices including trauma informed care framework desirable.
- Ability to work effectively with people of diverse cultures, ages and economic backgrounds in a culturally responsive and sensitive manner.
- Experience working with clients that are affected by behavioral health issues.
- Awareness of and engagement with community resources and supports for older adults
- Possess strong verbal communication skills required to effectively interact with a broad range of individuals.
- Excellent written communications skills required to maintain quality documentation.
- Computer proficiency and ability to effectively utilize medical record systems.
Competencies:
- Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems
- Judgment and Decision Making - Considers relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate.
- Relates well to all kinds of people regardless of level inside or outside of the organization. Uses diplomacy and tact when dealing with and interacting with others. Diffuses tension. Fosters collegial and cooperative attitudes. Works effectively to achieve common goals.
- Communication Intelligence - Listens to others, able to communicate issues clearly and credibly with widely varied audiences and overcome resistance; fosters open communication and manages emotion in positive ways.
- Client Focus - Understands and meets customer needs, whether internal or external, providing a high level of service and cooperation courteousness & sensitivity)
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Will work in the office and in the community based on the needs of the individuals referred.
- Must have access to a reliable vehicle, possess a valid, clean New York State driver’s license, and be sufficiently self-insured with liability insurance in the amount of $100,000/$300,000.
- Full time, Monday through Friday.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Light physical activities and effort required working in an office environment.
- Visual acuity sufficient to maintain system of files and reports containing computer-generated and handwritten documents.
- Auditory acuity sufficient to communicate with staff and others by phone and in person.
- Mobility sufficient to conduct regular duties within a normal office environment and community.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
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Competitive salary range of $28.57 to $32.97 per hour, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- LMHC/LMSW start at $28.57 per hour.
- LCSW start at $31.32 per hour.
- LCSW-R start at $32.97 per hour.
- Potential for quarterly bonuses based on productivity.
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
- Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO) of 5 weeks.
- 401k retirement plan with agency contribution of 4%.
- 13 observed holidays annually.
- Reduced full-time work week of 35 hours and early close on Fridays.
The above pay range is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Final compensation may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, background, knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Jewish Family Services of Western New York is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Salary : $29 - $33
