Lead Mental Health Specialist

Job scope:

The Lead Mental Health Specialist is part of a multidisciplinary team and will work cooperatively with other members of the team to provide services to designated individuals. The Lead MHS serves as a frontline leader within the Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU), providing direct individual care while supporting daily unit operations, MHS staff guidance, and adherence to safety protocols. This role acts as a liaison between MHS staff and nursing/leadership, ensuring a safe therapeutic, and structured environment.

Education/licensure:

Current valid driver's license in state of residence, proof of automobile liability insurance, and a driving record insurable by the center's insurance carrier. Graduation from an accredited high school or its equivalent. Associate or bachelor's degree in behavioral health or related field is preferred. Certification required for Van driver and Handle with Care training.

Experience/Knowledge:

The Lead Mental Health Specialist provides direct care to individuals in the CSU with strong leadership, delegation, and decision-making skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a high-acuity environment. Effective communication and conflict resolution skills. The Lead MHS will be responsible for Van driver training, Handle with Care training and Unit specific trainings. In addition, the Lead MHS will provide and oversee transport services for individuals requiring inpatient psychiatric services. Functions as a team member and actively participates in improvement activities. Knowledge of Crisis Stabilization programs and behaviors of individuals requiring psychiatric inpatient services with one-year experience in behavioral health preferred. Prior leadership, senior staff, or charge role experience preferred.

Physical requirements that are bona fide occupational qualifications essential to the performance of the job: Moderate lifting and carrying up to a maximum of 50 pounds. Sitting for prolonged periods, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling and reaching above shoulder height. Motor skills necessary to operate essential office equipment. Physical ability to perform Handle with Care, CPR, and First Aid. Ability to read and visual acuity to decipher printed information at 8 lines per inch. Work site is inside but may be required to assist with other duties as assigned. Required to attend training as assigned.