Behavioral Health Specialist I - Emergency Services & Crisis Care

We are seeking an energetic, adaptable, and compassionate professional to serve as a hearing coordinator within our multidisciplinary Emergency Services Unit. This fast-paced team provides crisis intervention and support to individuals experiencing psychiatric emergencies, including those with mental health disorders, substance use disorders, intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD), and co-occurring conditions. 

The hearing coordinator plays a vital role in coordinating psychiatric placements for voluntary and involuntary clients requiring hospitalization or crisis stabilization services. Manages placement-related administrative processes, facilitates communication among providers, and supports the coordination of commitment hearings. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication, organization, and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and collaborate effectively with internal and external partners in a fast-paced crisis environment.

Functions as an active member of the treatment team and assists with gathering and organizing information required to present clients to potential hospitals and Crisis Stabilization Units (CSUs), including Virginia pre-screenings, medical clearance information, copies of Temporary Detention Orders (TDOs), and other documentation necessary to facilitate appropriate client placement. The position is responsible for uploading relevant documentation into the statewide Virginia Crisis Connect Behavioral Health Link and assisting with the coordination of commitment hearings, including participating in hearings as the CSB’s hearing representative. Accurately documents hearing outcomes and communicates those outcomes to necessary stakeholders. Participates in monthly staff and Behavioral Health Specialists I meetings and works collaboratively with members of the court system, psychiatrists, and crisis intervention specialists. Additional responsibilities include answering calls, providing care coordination and referrals, and maintaining accurate client records in accordance with state and department regulations.

We are looking for a candidate who has knowledge of public and private community-based resources and the ability to enter, track, and manage data accurately and efficiently. The ideal candidate will be able to develop and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and community partners and maintain accurate, up-to-date documentation and records. Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential, with the ability to work effectively with a variety of stakeholders, including law enforcement, hospital providers and staff, the court system, and other key partners across the state. The successful candidate will have strong attention to detail, the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment, excellent organizational skills, and a proactive approach to planning, coordination, and problem-solving.

Here are some of additional benefits CSB employees enjoy:

• Fairfax County is home to a highly diverse population, with a significant number of residents speaking languages other than English at home — including Spanish, Asian/Pacific Islander, Indo-European, and many others. We encourage candidates who are bilingual in English and another language to apply for this opportunity. A foreign language skills stipend of up to $1600/year (full-time) may be given for qualified bi-lingual employees.
• The CSB provides clinical supervision for employees who are registered as licensed eligible mental health in one of the following areas: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist.
• License/Certification Reimbursement - Reimbursement for job related licenses and/or certifications once per year.
• To find out more about the benefits of working with Fairfax County Government, please visit the CSB Careers Page.

Note: To learn more about careers that make a difference, watch our video "CSB Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Providing Care."MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, sociology, nursing, public health or a related field; 
OR a bachelor’s degree and a valid Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) or Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) certification.  

CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES REQUIRED:

• CPR certification, within 90 days of appointment and maintained throughout CSB employment.
• Valid motor vehicle driver's license with fewer than six demerit points (or the equivalent in another State) maintained throughout employment with CSB.
• Handle with Care certification (within 3 months of hire)

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check, Child Protective Services Registry check, driving record check, and a sanction screening to the satisfaction of the employer. A TB screening upon hire and annually thereafter.
•  Additional Work Schedule Requirements: Position requires shift work that includes some weekends, holiday, and overnight coverage

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience in behavioral health, crisis services, or a related field.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to lift and carry up to 15 lbs. Observe client behavior and appearance, and review and write progress notes in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) and staff log. Independently drive vehicles, and be able to climb stairs, walk, stand, and bend as needed to perform job duties. All duties performed with or without reasonable accommodations.

SELECTION PROCEDURE: 
Panel Interview and may include a practical exercise.
 
Fairfax County Government prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. TTY 703-222-7314. [email protected]. EEO/AA/TTY.

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