Psych Specialty Counselor I

Company Description

Since 1969, MYCS has helped individuals and families in the Mon Valley area Get Better based on the specific and unique circumstances of each person we serve. Our mission is to foster hope, renewal, healing and wellness for those who face the challenges of mental health, substance use and intellectual disabilities. The goal of helping individuals Get Better means getting better service, better advice, better treatment and a better experience overall. The people of MYCS strive for excellence in their quest for knowledge, compassion and support for the recovery of every individual.

Job Description

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

 Provides direct mental health and/or drug and alcohol services to patients referred to MYCS, based on well developed knowledge and understanding of psychiatric/mental health theory, recovery/resiliency, and drug and alcohol theory.
 Functions as the primary clinician for a caseload of patients in outpatient services. 
 Provides clinical services which include individual, family, and group therapy.  Uses best practice therapeutic interventions as well as the principles of recovery.
 Travels on an as needed basis to off-site locations to provide necessary outpatient treatment services which may include mobile mental health treatment.
 Conducts initial assessments with patients to ascertain the patient’s relevant history and current status. 
 Demonstrates knowledge of each patient’s social and psychiatric history, drug and alcohol history and current mental status. In collaboration with the patient, formulates and implements an individualized treatment plan.
 Provides psycho education to patients and their family members or any identified support persons.
 Monitors attendance of prescriber appointments, monitors pharmacotherapy compliance and response under the supervision of staff psychiatrists and CRNP’s.  Demonstrates knowledge of the expected response of commonly used medications. Recognizes when to consult with other medical professionals about patient reported side effects to medications.
 Assures continuity of care through coordination with other members of the treatment team.  Communicates regularly with treatment team members.
 Engages or re-engages patients using effective interpersonal skills such as motivational interviewing or other best practices.  Utilizes tools such as phone calls, letters, and outreach to other treatment team members.
 Provides advocacy by insuring that patients obtain appropriate entitlements, basic rights are being supported, and confidentiality is maintained.
 Demonstrates knowledge of MYCS protocols and facilitates appropriate referrals.
 Participates in MYCS research activities by assisting in the collection of data, interviewing, or recruiting patients or conducting specific therapies as part of a larger project.
 Completes documentation within established standard timeframe, with accuracy and completeness.  Documentation meets all standards established by MYCS, regulatory bodies and payors.
 Maintains productivity based on established standards. 
 Reports pertinent clinical and non-clinical patient or family needs to appropriate management staff.
 Participates in MYCS and/or other community committees which relates to improvement of patient care, program processes or the mission and vision of the organization.
 Conducts urinalysis and breathalyzer testing for patients as clinically necessary.
 Assists in program coverage needs as defined by management. 

ACCOUNTABILITIES

1. Responsibilities will be evaluated through performance appraisals completed by the supervisor in collaboration with the director.
2. Participates in continuing education and training on an annual basis as required by licensing regulations specific to their program, as required by MYCS, as required by payor or when such instruction is required for satisfactory job performance and needs assessment. 
3. Maintains annual certifications as required by Agency and/or department regulations.
4. Completes the responsibilities of the position accurately and efficiently.
5. Demonstrates beginning to intermediate knowledge of recovery principles, mental health/drug and alcohol principles.
6. Demonstrates beginning to intermediate knowledge related to crisis prevention and management strategies.
7. Interacts effectively with patients, visitors, MYCS staff and the community.
8. Identifies both clinical and non-clinical needs or problems and takes necessary action to correct same.
9. Must be physically capable of utilizing comprehensive crisis management techniques in situations that may be unpredictable and potentially violent. This may include lifting, supporting, running toward or away from areas where problems are occurring and pushing and pulling equipment.
10. Demonstrates efficient, articulate, and timely completion of documentation, verbal and written reports and active participation in relevant meetings.
11. Effectively schedules appointments that meet the patient’s clinical needs as well as productivity expectations. Collaborates with support staff to maintain scheduling requirements.
12. Maintains appropriate dress and grooming for the position as determined by the supervisor.
13. Demonstrates a system perspective in managing day-to-day activities of the clinic.

Qualifications

REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Master degree in social science/human service field and one year of clinical experience.
2. Valid PA drivers license and meet MYCS insurance standards of an acceptable driver.
3. Act 33/34, FBI Clearances
MUST APPLY ONLINE AT www.mycs.org

Additional Information

MUST APPLY ONLINE AT www.mycs.org