Mental Health Specialist

MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST

$69,145.54 - $97,700.81 Annually

The Contra Costa Health Services Behavioral Health Division, in partnership with consumers, families, staff and community-based agencies, provides welcoming and integrated services for mental health, substance abuse, and other needs that promote wellness, recovery and resiliency while respecting the complexity and diversity of the people we serve.

The Behavorial Health Division is looking to fill a variety of Mental Health Specialist II vacancies across multiple programs. Mental Health Specialist II positions work collaboratively with Mental Health Clinicians, Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Mental Health Peer Support Workers, Substance Abuse Counselors, and Outreach Interventionists to provide de-escalation, stabilization, and linkage to services for adults experiencing a behavioral health crisis in the community.

We are looking for someone who:

• Is a problem solver. You will be expected to have excellent interpersonal skills with a strong ability to handle competing priorities.

• Is a team player.  You will be responsible for working within a team to effectively strategize and implement best practices.  

• Has excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Has effective time management and organizational skills to manage their workload.

• Can build positive relationships/good rapport with clients and their families. 

What you will typically be responsible for:

• Working with other county programs and community-based organizations to advocate for clients.

• Utilizing various treatment approaches to improve clients’ function and well-being. 

• Documenting progress notes for Medi-Cal billing on a daily basis.

• Working with law enforcement and emergency medical services in the field as needed.

A few reasons why you might love this job:

• You will have the opportunity to effect positive change amongst one of the most vulnerable populations.

• You will be a part of providing solution-based creativity and strategic problem-solving to best meet client needs.

• You will be a part of a collaborative process with a team-based approach to the work.

A few challenges you might face in this job:

• Resources are limited and the need in the Behavioral Health community is great.  

• Managing pressing client needs with administrative requirements.

• Organizing your time to meet with clients and providers while maintaining accurate documentation. 

Desirable Qualifications: 

• Experience working with people experience mental health challenges.

• Experience providing supportive services in the community. 

• Experience with crisis intervention and de-escalation. 

• Experience working on multi-disciplinary teams. 

Minimum Qualifications

License Required: Candidates must possess and maintain throughout the duration of employment a Valid California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Out of state valid motor vehicle operator's license will be accepted during the application process.

Education: Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in psychology, social welfare, counseling or a closely related field.

Experience: Four years of full-time, or its equivalent, experience providing counseling and/or supportive services to mental health clients.

Substitution: Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis up to a maximum of two years. Possession of a master's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in psychology, sociology, social work, counseling or a closely related field may be substituted for two years of the required experience.

Closing Date: Open Until Filled. This recruitment may close at any time, qualified candidates are encouraged to apply immediately.

Equal Opportunity Employer