Behavioral Health Director Job Paraje New Mexico USA,Healthcare

Location: Paraje

POSITION SUMMARY

The Behavioral Health Program Director is responsible for the planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of behavioral health programs within Laguna Healthcare Corporation (LHC). The role will also provide direct provision of clinical care to community members, including psychotherapy. The incumbent provides leadership, clinical oversight, and operational management — including day-to-day operations and strategic planning — for outpatient behavioral health services including mental health, substance use treatment, crisis intervention, prevention programs, and integrated care services.

The position ensures services are culturally responsive and consistent with the mission of the LHC to raise the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of our Laguna community. This role requires a deep commitment to culturally responsive, trauma-informed care, with sensitivity to the traditions, values, and lived experiences of the community.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION & DEPARTMENT LEADERSHIP

Plans, develops, and manages behavioral health programs within across organization.

Implements evidence-based behavioral health practices culturally appropriate for LHC patients.

Develops policies, procedures, and protocols for behavioral health services.

Oversees program performance measures and quality improvement activities.

Implements strategic plans aligned with organizational priorities.

Facilitates staff meetings and supports internal department communication.

Participates as a member of the organizational leadership team.

Provides direct clinical care to community members, including psychotherapy, medication management, and psychological assessment.

CLINICAL PROGRAM OVERSIGHT & QUALITY IMPROVEMENT

Provides leadership and consultation to behavioral health providers including but not limited to psychologists, social workers, counselors, and behavioral health technicians.

Ensures appropriate assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and documentation practices.

Oversees crisis response, suicide prevention, and substance use treatment services.

Coordinates referrals for specialty behavioral health services.

Ensures high-quality care delivery standards across the department.

Leads quality improvement initiatives and monitors service outcomes.

INTEGRATED CARE COORDINATION & COLLABORATION

Collaborates with primary care providers to support integrated behavioral health services.

Promotes team-based care across medical, behavioral health, and community programs.

Coordinates care for high-risk patients and those with co-occurring medical and behavioral health conditions.

Collaborates with medical providers, psychologists, and psychiatrists to support integrated care models.

STAFF SUPERVISION AND DEVELOPMENT

Supervises behavioral health staff and provides guidance, mentoring, performance evaluation, and corrective action.

Recruits and trains clinical and support staff.

Promotes workforce development and professional training opportunities.

Provides leadership and coordination with contract staff in addition to direct employees.

FINANCIAL & GRANT MANAGEMENT

Manages department budget and oversees allocation of resources.

Oversees grants and funding streams supporting behavioral health programs.

Supports grant writing activities, including federal grants such as SAMHSA or IHS behavioral health initiatives.

COMPLIANCE AND QUALITY ASSURANCE

Ensures compliance with organizational and applicable policies, state & federal regulations, and accreditation standards.

Maintains program documentation and reporting requirements.

Implements quality improvement and risk management initiatives.

Upholds patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA requirements.

Participates in the development and implementation of EHR protocols.

COMMUNITY AND TRIBAL COLLABORATION

Works with community stakeholders to identify behavioral health priorities.

Participates in community outreach and prevention programs addressing mental health and substance use.

Supports culturally appropriate care and traditional healing partnerships when appropriate.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS

Uphold all principles of confidentiality and patient care to the fullest…