PHP Intake Therapist

Job DetailsJob Location: Main Campus - San Diego, CA 92111Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $70,304.00 - $72,304.00 Salary/yearJob Shift: DayJob Category: Behavioral Health Support StaffBy joining the San Diego Center for Children, you will empower children and families through transformative mental health care and educational services. Our vision is to inspire a world where children and families live joyful, healthy lives. We serve over 1,000 people every day - are you ready to make an impact?

Join us - and work with purpose!

POSITION BENEFITS

Team-oriented, multidisciplinary approach
Ongoing, high-level learning and development opportunities
Culturally diverse environment
Joint Commission Accredited Organization
Comprehensive Health Insurance (medical, dental, vision, pet)
Retirement savings plan: 403(b) - with employer match up to 3%
Generous paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)
Wellness programs
EAP - Employee Assistance Program
Tuition reimbursement or assistance for continuing education
Employee discounts
Employee recognition program
Opportunities for career advancement
May be eligible for state or federal loan forgiveness programs for work with underserved populations

SUMMARY

The PHP Intake Therapist supports the enrollment and intake process for youth entering the San Diego Center for Children’s Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Programs (PHP and IOP). This is a key role in increasing access to this life-saving level of mental health care. PHP treatment is primarily group-based, abbreviated DBT skills along with other groups and wellness activities. Treatment length for youth is typically 3 weeks but can last longer based on medical necessity. This role assists with assessment of the youth and families’ needs, coordinating and completing paperwork (including behavioral health assessments and treatment planning), motivational interviewing and commitment strategies, and communicating with internal and external stakeholders throughout the referral and intake process. The Intake Therapist plays a critical role in ensuring that youth and families are welcomed in a trauma-informed, professional, and efficient manner while maintaining regulatory and contractual compliance. In addition to conducting intake assessments, completing assessment documentation, the Intake Therapist also assists with running groups, coverage of clinical cases and duties assigned. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES  (Other Duties May Be Assigned)

Assist in the collection and review of required intake documentation, including psychological evaluations, IEPs, immunization records, and consent forms.
Conduct in-person assessment/intake appointments with youth and families with cultural sensitivity and professionalism.
Problem solves families’ barriers to accessing treatment and support connection to resources (e.g. transportation, ECM referral, etc.)
Conduct motivational interviewing for treatment and engage youth and caregiver in commitment strategies.
Assessment of risk to ensure PHP and IOP services can meet youth and families’ needs.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation in electronic records and tracking logs.
Communicate with county agencies, school districts, caregivers, and other referral sources to ensure smooth coordination.
Ensure all required forms are completed
Ensure compliance with regulatory and contractual requirements including County of San Diego and Joint Commission standards.
Facilitate therapy groups and ensure a therapeutic milieu.
Carry a small caseload and cover cases as assigned.
Support internal reporting on admissions data.
Perform other duties as assigned by the ICS Director.
Maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and FERPA requirements.
Participate in internal quality improvement activities and clinical leadership meetings.
Ensure the delivery of high-quality, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive services throughout the admissions process.
Outreach assistance to increase the visibility of SDCC’s programs, specifically represent PHP and IOP to increase referrals 
Ensure that all safety protocols are followed and immediately report any unsafe conditions or incidents to the appropriate supervisor.
Contribute to overall program development and improvement initiatives, ensuring the program meets the highest standards of care and compliance.
All duties as assigned 

Compliance and Documentation Oversight:

Review clinical documentation (e.g., assessments, treatment plans, progress notes) to ensure accuracy, quality, and compliance with agency, IEP and accreditation standards.
Support and participate in audits and accreditation processes conducted by SD County, Joint Commission, and other regulatory or funding entities.

Crisis Intervention & Support:

Assist emotional and behavioral concerns when needed by providing de-escalation and safety planning interventions (calling MCRT, PERT etc.).
Ass