Mental Health Specialist

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Job Profile Summary

This role focuses on providing medical and clinical support services to patients. In addition, this role focuses on performing the following Medical/Behavioral Health duties: Provides behavioral evaluation services to patients and are specialized in the evaluation and treatment of mental, emotional, and/or behavioral issues. A professional individual contributor role that may direct the work of other lower level professionals or manage processes and programs. The majority of time is spent overseeing the design, implementation or delivery of processes, programs and policies using specialized knowledge and skills typically acquired through advanced education. An entry level role that applies broad theoretical job knowledge typically obtained through advanced education. May require the following proficiency: work is closely supervised, problems faced are not typically difficult or complex, and explains facts, policies and practices related to job area.

Job Overview

Under the supervision of RN staff, assists in maintaining a safe and therapeutic milieu for psychiatric patients. May facilitate activity and recovery groups based on a structured unit-based curriculum. Assists patients with personal care under the direction of an RN.

Job Description

Minimum Qualifications

Associate’s Degree in human sciences field or related area. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification. Crisis prevention intervention (CPI) certification. One (1) year of experience in a locked, inpatient psychiatric unit.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in human sciences field or related area.

Duties and Responsibilities: The duties and responsibilities listed below are intended to describe the general nature of work and are not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned.

Responsible for patient and unit safety checks, including one to one observation, as assigned by RN. Participates in belongings searches on admission, discharge and, as needed, searches of packages brought to Unit by visitors. As assigned by RN, functions as contact person for individual patients to assist with belongings, answer questions about unit activities, and direct to treatment providers as appropriate. Facilitate recreational and recovery groups. Monitors and assists visitors to the Unit following locked door protocols. Provides supervision of meals served in common dining area. Participates in de-escalation and crisis intervention under the direction of an RN and per CPI protocol. As available, accompanies patients off unit, per MD orders, for testing, court appearance and/or outdoor exercise. Assists patients with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and personal care such as showering and shaving. Reports observed changes in patient’s medical and psychiatric status accurately and efficiently to RN or other members of the treatment team. Seeks appropriate assistance when needed. Under the supervision of an RN, takes patients’ vital signs and reports all information to the RN. Documents patient observations according to Unit policy. Notifies RN immediately of presence of contraband on the Unit. Actively monitors the therapeutic milieu and intervenes appropriately to de-escalate patients according to the patient’s safety plan. Maintains appropriate therapeutic boundaries at all times. Participates in team meetings and other meetings as requested by the treatment team. Participates in orientation of new mental health counselors as assigned.

Physical Requirements

Frequent sitting, occasional standing and walking. Lifting up to 40-50 pounds. Manual dexterity using fine hand manipulation for operating a computer keyboard. Requires ability to see computer screen and reports.

Skills & Abilities

Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills. Able to work with detailed, confidential material. Computer experience. Familiarity with a hospital setting. Demonstrates knowledge of infection control and emergency plans.

Tufts Medicine is a leading integrated health system bringing together the best of academic and community healthcare to deliver exceptional, connected and accessible care experiences to consumers across Massachusetts. Comprised of Tufts Medical Center, Lowell General Hospital, MelroseWakefield Hospital, Lawrence Memorial Hospital of Medford, Care at Home - an expansive home care network, and large integrated physician network. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity and inclusion at Tufts Medicine. Tufts Medicine does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, national origin, gender identity and/or expression, marital status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation by emailing us at careers@tuftsmedicine.org.