Behavioral Health Case Manager

Job Description: Behavioral Health Case Manager - Outpatient Rural Health Center

Position Title: Behavioral Health Case Manager
Location: Weeks Medical Center-NCH] – Outpatient Services
Reports To: Behavioral Health Supervisor / Clinical Director

Position Summary:
The Behavioral Health Case Manager will offer comprehensive case management services to individuals referred by North Country Healthcare primary care providers, specifically those with mental health and co-occurring disorders in an outpatient setting. This role involves coordinating care, tracking progress, and ensuring clients access the necessary services and resources to enhance their overall well-being. The Case Manager will collaborate with other healthcare providers, community organizations, and support systems to deliver holistic, client-centered care to individuals in rural communities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Client Assessment & Evaluation:
• Conduct intake assessments to determine the behavioral health needs of clients, including mental health, substance use, and social service needs.
• Develop individualized treatment plans in collaboration with clients, addressing both immediate and long-term goals.
• Care Coordination:
• Coordinate and facilitate access to behavioral health services, medical care, housing, employment, and other community resources.
• Act as the primary point of contact for clients and their families, ensuring that services are timely, appropriate, and aligned with treatment plans.
• Support & Advocacy:
• Advocate for clients' needs within the healthcare system and community agencies.
• Provide ongoing support, education, and guidance to clients and families about treatment options, coping strategies, and community resources.
• Monitoring & Follow-up:
• Track client progress, including attendance at therapy or medical appointments, medication adherence, and overall progress toward goals.
• Conduct regular follow-ups via phone, in-person visits, or telehealth to ensure continuity of care.
• Collaboration & Teamwork:
• Work closely with the interdisciplinary team, including physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, and other providers, to ensure a coordinated approach to care.
• Participate in case conferences and share relevant information to enhance client care and outcomes.
• Documentation & Reporting:
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, including assessments, care plans, progress notes, and follow-up reports, in compliance with agency policies and regulatory requirements.
• Complete required documentation in a timely manner, ensuring confidentiality and HIPAA compliance.
• Cultural Competence & Community Engagement:
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and awareness in interactions with clients from diverse backgrounds.
• Actively engage with the rural community to identify gaps in services and improve behavioral health outcomes.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Nursing, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 1-3 years of experience in behavioral health case management or a related field, preferably in an outpatient or rural healthcare setting.
• Knowledge of mental health and co-occurring disorders, crisis intervention techniques, and community resources.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with clients, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
• Ability to work independently, manage a caseload, and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of rural health challenges and the ability to work with underserved populations is highly preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position, including some physical activity, such as walking, standing, and driving.