Behavioral Health System Navigator District

Behavioral Health System Navigator District 5

Professional Headquarters, Des Moines, IA, US

16 days ago Requisition

Salary Range: $65,000.00 To $70,000.00 Annually

District 5 - Lucas and Wayne

Due to the nature of this work, candidates must live in one of the counties listed above to be considered for this role.

Company Background

The Iowa Primary Care Association (Iowa PCA) has supported Iowa’s community health centers for over 36 years to expand access to affordable, high quality, integrated care. The Iowa PCA, along with our sister companies INConcert

Care (INCC) and Iowa Health+ (IH+), provides training, technical assistance, and shared services opportunities in quality improvement, value-based care, health information technology, and other areas. We are now expanding our services through a new partnership with Iowa Health and Human Services to serve as the new statewide Behavioral Health Administrative Service Organization (BH-ASO). It’s an exciting opportunity to expand our efforts and connection to the broader behavioral health safety net.

Purpose of the Position

The Behavioral Health System Navigator plays a vital role in supporting Iowans on their journey to emotional wellness and recovery. Behavioral Health System Navigators walk alongside individuals and families as they explore behavioral health services—helping them understand their options, connect to care, and overcome barriers that may stand in the way. Reporting to the Lead Behavioral Health System Navigator, this position emphasizes partnership, education, and practical support—particularly for those who are uninsured or underinsured.

The goal is to make sure no one feels lost or alone when seeking help and that everyone has a clear path to services that fit their needs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following duties outline key responsibilities for the Behavioral Health System Navigator position. Additional duties may be assigned as required.

Person-Centered Navigation and Support

• Be a welcoming first point of contact for individuals and families seeking help through the Behavioral Health Administrative Services Organization (BH-ASO).
• Help people understand what services are available, who is eligible, and how to get started—especially in times of stress or crisis.
• Walk alongside individuals and families as they make referrals to providers and community supports—empowering them with information, answering questions, and ensuring referrals align with their unique needs and goals.
• Support people in overcoming common barriers to care, such as insurance issues, transportation, or language needs—including helping with service applications when needed.
• Work closely with Mobile Crisis Services, Access Centers, and other partners to respond quickly and compassionately during urgent situations.
• Use brief, evidence-based screening tools, as needed, to help clarify needs and guide next steps in a respectful and responsive way.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, jails, and justice partners to support individuals with behavioral health needs, especially during transitions back into the community and in efforts to avoid incarceration.
• Ensure all interactions are trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and rooted in respect for the person’s lived experience.

2. Ongoing Support and follow up:

• Stay connected after the initial referral, ensuring people and families have access to the help they need, when they need it.
• Support people and families through transitions from hospitals, crisis or residential services into the community.
• Follow up to ensure services were accessed successfully and assist if further help is needed.

3. Building and Maintaining Community Partnerships

• Build strong relationships with local providers, peer facilitated…