Clinical Navigator; HEART

Clinical Navigator (HEART) –
Douglas County Government

Position Summary:

The Clinical Navigator is a civilian co‑responsible partner with a Sheriff’s Deputy in the Homeless Engagement, Assistance, and Resource Team (HEART). The Navigator will provide direct engagement, assessment, crisis intervention, and clinical support to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and/or behavioral health challenges across Douglas County.

• Support the Director of Community Services and Assistant Director in administering assigned projects.
• Maintain a positive image of HEART, representing its mission to the public and partners.
• Collaborate with the Sheriff’s Office under a co‑response model to attend community calls and provide resources to those experiencing homelessness.
• Partner regionally with municipalities, law enforcement, and the Community Response Team for collaborative responses.
• Work with the regional homeless system of care to advance goals of reducing homelessness.
• Engage individuals to set goals, develop action plans, and facilitate access to services.
• Conduct clinical assessments and psychosocial evaluations using evidence‑based tools.
• Develop and implement crisis intervention and safety plans to reduce immediate risk.
• Provide short‑term counseling, de‑escalation, and emotional support.
• Coordinate placement and follow‑up services with community providers.
• Act as part of an interdisciplinary team, building effective relationships with community professionals.
• Document all assessments, interactions, and relevant information.
• Meet regularly with the clinical supervisor.
• Visit housing sites and serve as a resource provider to the community.
• Assess situational safety and provide basic first aid (CPR, NARCAN, etc.).
• Conduct meetings with landlords and service providers to facilitate resources such as housing, education, mental health, and employment.
• Advocate impartially to support clients in obtaining housing.
• Compile and present data to internal and external stakeholders.
• Transport clients to access services as needed.
• Maintain an up‑to‑date list of resources, eligibility requirements, and service offerings.
• Collect qualitative and quantitative data to evaluate service needs.
• Collaborate with local navigation teams and regional committees to meet initiative goals.
• Communicate program issues and opportunities to County leadership.
• Assist in coordination across departments for program consistency.
• Provide training and technical assistance for programs.
• Prepare, write, and edit materials related to assigned programs.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Master’s degree in psychology, counseling, or social work. Must hold or be pending licensure with supervision (LPC, LMFT, LCSW). Minimum two years of treatment experience in a mental health setting. Experience in homeless outreach, housing systems, criminal justice, or human services is preferred. A combination of education and experience may be considered.

• Licensed or pending licensure (LPC, LMFT, LCSW).
• Valid Colorado Driver’s License with insurance upon hire; periodic reviews of motor vehicle record.
• Successful completion of a criminal background check including fingerprinting.

• 10½ paid holidays per year plus a floating holiday.
• 9 hours paid vacation per month.
• 8 hours paid sick time per month.
• Medical coverage with three plan options:
  United Healthcare Doctors Plan, United Healthcare HDHP Plan, and United Healthcare Choice Plus Plan.
• Life insurance equal to 1½ times the employee’s salary at no cost.
• Short‑term and long‑term disability at no cost.
• Mandatory retirement with an 8% defined contribution matched at 8%.
• Annual performance reviews with potential salary increases.
• Additional benefits: dental, vision, accident/critical illness insurance, tuition reimbursement, and employee training.
• Part‑time employees receive a pro‑rated benefits package.

To learn more about this position and  our career site.