Job Details: MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST

Description: This employment opportunity is with the Department of Human Services Oregon State Hospital.

Mental Health Specialists provide evaluation and treatment of individuals with substance abuse problems, sexual problems, etc., who are mentally ill and/or developmentally disabled and receiving treatment at Oregon State Hospital.

QUALIFICATIONS
Two years of experience treating clients suffering from either alcohol/drug abuse or mental/emotional disturbance and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology or closely related field; OR

An equivalent combination of training and experience.

Note: A Master's degree in Psychology or a closely-related field may be substituted for one year of the required work experience.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Mental Health Specialist provides specialized treatment services including the assisting of psychologists in the design and implementation of behavioral management plans to include monitoring and mentoring of direct care staff as well as assisting treatment teams with treatment care planning functions and the provision of some direct treatment services for mentally ill individuals. Major duties include:

ASSESSMENT SERVICES: Conducts patient interviews to obtain pertinent information regarding individual treatment needs with attention to unique cultural considerations. Administers tests and questionnaires to assess issues such as functional skills, historical antecedents, reinforcement contingencies, behavioral maintenance factors, etc. Makes appropriate formulations and recommendations with a focus on the enhancement of positive behaviors. Works with Interdisciplinary Treatment Teams to identify an appropriate assessment of concerning behaviors, antecedents, and consequences which may be maintaining the behaviors. Generates appropriate documentation of all assessment activities.

TREATMENT SERVICES: May participate to a limited degree in the development and implementation of a comprehensive array of psycho-educational/ psychotherapeutic groups and individual therapy. In conjunction with and under the guidance of psychologists develops behavior management plans and provides monitoring of staff on plan implementation, as well as consultation with staff for updating and revision of plans. May participate in planning meetings with group leaders. Attends and participates with Interdisciplinary Treatment Teams in the oversight co-ordination, development, provision of summary statements, and periodic reviews of individualized treatment care plans for patients. Participates with treatment staff in assessing, monitoring, and enhancing good communication and effective operations. As necessary attends unit daily rounds, intershifts, and other meetings to assure good communication and effective treatment service. Provides professional services, based on treatment and scheduling needs, days, evenings, and/or weekends. Generates accurate written documentation of all treatment activities within hospital guidelines and time frames.


CONTACT:
To learn more about employment with Oregon State Hospital please see our complete job announcement at: www.oregon.gov/DHS/jobs/LEHS8040.shtml. Or contact our recruitment staff at (503) 945-2814.

Posting Date: Apr 18 08