Community Services Assessment Specialist / Therapist

SUMMARY

Primary responsibilities are to complete the IM+CANS tool for clients assigned to Community Based Services (CBS) programs from Intake as an initial point of contact into the program.

Conducts initial assessments and refers to CBS program based on clinical need (i.e., Community Support-Individual (CS-I); Community Support Team (CST), Employment, Family Resource Development (FRD), etc.)   Provides direct services to clients in the CBS programs through mental health rehabilitative services.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES.

• As a QMHP, assists team members with completing initial assessments and with reviewing of the IM+CANS for clients referred to CBS services along with required Rule 132 paperwork.
• Maintains a small case load. Provides individual, family, or group therapy to clients receiving CBS services.
• Provides direct service to CBS clients through mental health rehabilitation services and supports, including illness self-management, skill building, identification and use of adaptive and compensatory skills, identification and use of natural supports and use of community resources. 60% of direct services must be provided in the member’s natural setting.
• Under the direct supervision of an LPHA, gathers member information to complete an assessment of the person’s needs.
• Utilizing a strengths-based perspective, assists in formulating treatment plans based on assessed need; reviews treatment plans according to policy.
• Makes recommendations for treatment, identifies, and investigates existing natural resources and supports, explains options available to CBS clients and assists in the application process.
• Completes all required paperwork for direct service case load (IMCANs, treatment plans, progress notes, authorization requests, etc.) within required timeframes and per Rule 132 and agency policy.
• Participates in evaluation of referrals and facilitates placement into CBS programs with other team members, including ensuring potential clients meet eligibility requirements and all required screenings/assessments are completed; coordinates termination of services, ensures termination criteria are met, and ensures appropriate discharge plan.
• Through supportive counseling, psycho-education and case management, assist people in the program to achieve their treatment goals, maximize independence and access needed community resources.
• Provide services to facilitate an effective transition in living arrangement, consistent with the client’s welfare and development (e.g., a client being discharged from inpatient psychiatric care, loss of housing, etc.)
• Provide intensive outreach in an attempt to engage clients in services and those who do not follow through with post discharge/deflection appointments.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS  

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill and or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Candidate must be a Qualified Mental Health Professional

* Rule 132:  Qualified Mental Health Professional or QMHP − One of the following:

• A licensed social worker (LSW) possessing at least a master’s degree in social work and licensed under the Clinical Social Work and Social Work Practice Act [225 ILCS 20] with specialized training in mental health services or with at least 2 years experience in mental health services;
• A licensed professional counselor possessing at least a master’s degree and licensed under the Professional Counselor and Clinical Professional Counselor Licensing Act [225 ILCS 107] with specialized training in mental health services or with at least two years experience in mental health services;
• An individual possessing at least a master’s degree in counseling and guidance, rehabilitation counseling, social work, vocational counseling, psychology, pastoral counseling, or family therapy or related field, who has successfully completed a practicum or internship that included a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised direct service in a mental health setting, or who has one year of clinical experience under the supervision of a QMHP.
• Any individual meeting the minimum credentials for a LPHA under this part is deemed to also meet the credentialing requirements of a QMHP.

WORK ENVIRONMENT  

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Work environment may include client homes, community locations, and a general office environment.  Local travel, including transporting clients, is required.

OTHER

Must maintain a safe driving record and have current valid Illinois Driver’s License.  Personal vehicle needed.  CBS staff will transport clients and their belongings in his/her personal vehicle.  Mileage for authorized work-related purposes is reimbursable.