Mental Health Specialist II (OPT)

JOB SUMMARY:  This position has primary responsibility for providing mental health services and case management services to children or adolescents and their families referred to Community Services.  Services may include engagement, assessment, evaluation, individual/family/group therapy, and case management.  The position acts as liaison with external agencies and functions on teams with other clinical and support staff.  In addition, the position documents and bills for mental health and case management services, and completes outcomes information.   MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Education Grade 41: (MHS II) Enrolled in a practicum course at an accredited MA, MS, MSW program or awaiting BBS registration number (time limited) Grade 42: MHS II- Master's degree in a mental health field with BBS Registered intern number or MHSIII - Master’s Degree in mental health field with BBS License   Experience Two (2) years of experience in a mental health field; experience should be with children or adolescents in residential or outpatient settings. Bilingual Preferred.   License or Certification MHSII - BBS AMFT  registration, BBS APCC registration, or BBS ASW associate registration (May be enrolled in a practicum course at accredited MA, MS, or MSW program or awaiting BBS registration number). MHSIII - LMFT, LPCC, or LCSW license in California Valid California Driver's License.       ESSENTIAL DUTIES:   1.     Interviews referred children/adolescents and significant others to assess and evaluate their appropriateness and need for services.  2.        Works with referred children/adolescents, their families, representatives of referring agencies, and other relevant parties (in-house and external) to promote rehabilitation and amelioration of problems which interfere with productive social and emotional daily living.  Services provided may include engagement, assessment, evaluation, individual/family/group therapy, crisis and case management. 3.       Acts as liaison with various external agencies (such as Department of Children and Family Services, Department of Mental Health, Probation Department, Dependency Court, and police) to facilitate youngsters’ adjustment in daily living routines.  4.        Assists in preparing youngsters for lasting and successful housing, vocational, educational, and treatment experiences.  Services include a “whatever it takes” approach and include counseling, shadowing, training, modeling and other interventions deemed necessary.  5.       Documents clients’ behaviors and responses in Electronic Medical Records, and bills for services.