Mental Health Specialist

We’re excited to invite applications for the Mental Health Specialist role at U.S.VETS
.

This role provides an opportunity to serve veterans experiencing homelessness by delivering comprehensive mental health and substance abuse services, including short‑term individual counseling, group therapy, case management, intake and assessment, advocacy, and referrals.

All applications must be completed in entirety for further consideration. Local candidates only.

Paid vacation, sick time, paid holidays, medical, dental, vision, and company matching 401(k).

Non‑exempt.

• Provide clinical case management and short‑term individual therapy utilizing a harm reduction approach
• Provide substance abuse counseling services for veterans who request them
• Provide crisis counseling and risk assessment
• Assist veteran residents to meet program goals regarding Housing Retention, Increased Skills or Income, connection with Mainstream Resources, Payment of Rent, and Money Management
• Facilitate connection to recreational activities
• Conduct groups weekly
• Provide community‑based support, including transporting veterans in a company van, when appropriate
• Meet all contractual and programmatic goals and outcomes
• Collaborate and coordinate treatment with various VA providers
• Complete all required program documentation, including intakes, progress notes, group notes, psychosocial assessment, monthly treatment plans, data for in‑house reports, correspondence, etc. within the assigned timeframe
• Assist with residential program‑related responsibilities, such as meal preparation, conducting wellness checks, answering the door and phones, and medication reminders
• Conduct a monthly community meeting in conjunction with the Property Manager
• Attend required meetings and training
• Maintain after hours availability for veteran emergencies
• Other duties as assigned by management

• Bachelor’s degree required;
  Master’s in Social Work, Psychology or Counseling preferred, or a Master’s Degree that meets the education requirements for a Marriage and Family Therapist or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor license issued by the California Department of Consumer Affairs Board of Behavioral Science Examiners. Clinical license preferred but not required.
• Two (2) years of experience providing direct mental health services to persons experiencing homelessness, substance abuse and mental health diagnosis.
• Experience providing services within a harm reduction and motivational interviewing framework to persons actively using substances.
• Knowledge and application of the DSM‑V.
• Working understanding of the needs of persons experiencing homelessness with an emphasis on mental health, especially trauma and readjustment issues.
• Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques.
• Experience providing individual and group psychotherapy to persons with mental health, concurrent substance abuse and medical conditions.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution, crisis intervention, and quality assurance.
• Good listening skills.
• Ability to be a team player and be a role model for clients and staff.
• Computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to walk up and down stairs and sit for long periods of time.
• Must be able to perform all functions of the position within what would be considered reasonable accommodation.
• Must be able to communicate effectively with a variety of personalities and be comfortable working with an at‑risk client population, including embracing the agency’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiative.
• Valid California Driver’s license, clean driving record.
• Ability to pass Food Handler’s Course upon hire.

Entry level

Full‑time

Health Care Provider

Hospitals and Health Care, Non‑profit Organizations, and Mental Health Care