Mental Health Associate

Mental Health Associate provides services to youth and young adult clients in a residential setting who are experiencing severe and persistent mental illness and behavioral problems by providing skills training, case management, and other services as outlined in a treatment plan.Location : This position is based out of LifeWorks NW's Zenith Residential Home.Additional $1.00 shift differential for working swing shifts and an additional $1.50 shift differential for working graveyard shifts.Responsibilities : Meets standards for documentation and accuracy of work, client care, quality / customer service, attendance / punctuality and teamwork as defined in the Performance Evaluation.Continually increases level of cultural sensitivity, awareness, and competency. Actively participates in a minimum of four hours of training related to cultural effectiveness in working with diverse populations.Administers oral medications, following physician's prescriptions and hospital procedures. Provides skills training, case management, and other services as outlined on a treatment plan.Coordinates services with other staff and external organizations such as government agencies, social services providers, and healthcare providers.Assesses client's needs, limitations, and potential, using observation, review of hospital records, and consultation with parents and / or hospital personnel.Establishes and enforces rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order among clients, employing techniques such as behavior modification and positive reinforcement.Encourages clients to express their feelings and discuss what is happening in their lives, and help them to develop insight into themselves and their relationships.Counsels clients individually and in groups on concerns such as unsatisfactory relationships, divorce and separation, child rearing, home management, financial difficulties, and overcoming dependencies.Organizes, supervises, and encourages client participation in social, educational, and recreational activities.Provides crisis intervention to clients experiencing difficulties.Participates in regular individual and team meetings with supervisor, providing written and verbal reports regarding cases.Prepares meals and snacks for and / or with residents. Serves as back-up for other staff when needed.Checks e-mail / voice mail daily when working, responding to contacts within 48 hours for routine matters.May be required to transport clients in a LifeWorks vehicle.May administer first aid only if certified, according to prescribed procedures.Qualifications : This position requires a valid and active QMHA credential certification through MHACBO.A bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling or a related behavioral sciences field OR a minimum of three years experience working with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness.Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively; understand mental health assessment, treatment and service terminology and individual, group, family and other counseling techniques.Demonstrated effective communication skills and ability to provide culturally-competent treatment services to diverse client populations.Demonstrated ability to provide psychosocial skills training, implement elements of a treatment plan, and provide case management services in compliance with confidentiality requirements.Proficient in Microsoft Outlook and Word. Ability to master proprietary software including electronic health record system required.May require a valid driver's license and ability to meet LifeWorks NW driving requirements.Ability to perform essential functions of job without creating a direct threat to the safety of self or others.LifeWorks NW is a private, non-profit organization providing prevention, mental health, substance use treatment, and related social services to youths, adults, and older adults in over fifteen locations throughout Multnomah, Washington, and Clackamas counties. LifeWorks NW promotes a healthy community by providing quality and culturally responsive mental health and addiction services across the lifespan.Our core values - Recovery and Relationships, Resilience, and Results - inform the work we do. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are critical to successfully achieving the mission.#J-18808-Ljbffr