Engagement Specialist (Cascadia Access, Information, and Referral)

Engagement Specialist (Cascadia Access, Information, and Referral)

Job Overview

Location/ Schedule: This position is based at the Plaza Health Center located in SE Portland, OR. The schedule for this position is Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Position: Engagement Specialist 

Program: Cascadia Access, Information, and Referral (CAIR)

Cascadia's Mission and Vision:  

Mission: Cascadia Health delivers whole health care – integrated mental health and addiction services, primary care, and housing – to promote hope and support the well-being of the communities we serve. 

Vision: We envision a community where everyone benefits from whole health care, experiences well-being, and has a self-directed, connected life. 

Position Description: The Engagement Specialist is responsible for working as a member of an interdisciplinary team to enroll and engage clients in physical and behavioral health treatment and to provide clients with up to date referrals both within Cascadia as well as in the community, while supporting a Trauma Informed Care environment. This position requires both clinical and engagement skills to assist individuals with connecting to and engaging in ongoing health services. With the high prevalence of trauma among individuals receiving mental health services, it is required the Engagement Specialist understand the effects of trauma on health, coping, and other aspects of the lives of those we serve. The Engagement Specialist must have the ability to work independently over the phone and in the community.

This position must understand, appreciate, and respect the differences within our Cascadia community. As such, it is expected that this position promotes integrated care, our vision of trauma-informed and person-first approaches and helps create a work environment of acceptance.

Essential Responsibilities

This position description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with the position.  Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties as necessary. 

General

• Provide outreach and engagement services to individuals experiencing mental health challenges utilizing strengths based case management, motivational interviewing, and harm reduction concepts.

• Document and maintain electronic health record (EHR) and ancillary records in a manner that assures compliance with all agency policies, program procedures and local, state, and federal regulations. Maintain accurate and up-todate documentation associated with billing, assessment, treatment, client’s progress, and other activities, as required.

• Conduct needs assessments with consumers and refer to appropriate programs within Cascadia. Provide up to date information to clinicians.

• Work closely with community agencies to help consumer access services.

• Conduct skills training, care coordination and case management individually and in groups.

• Provide supportive, empathetic customer service and help clients problem solve and access needed services.

• Respect and honor client rights and responsibilities and demonstrate professional boundaries and ethics.

• Assist in crisis situations as appropriate, following emergency protocols/procedures and coordinating with the treatment team with interventions which support a trauma informed environment for program participants and staff.

• Practice and demonstrate competency in preventing escalation to avoid crisis situations and or to neutralize crises in progress.

• • Demonstrate responsibility for safety of consumers and/or program participants, staff, and property. Become familiar with fire regulations and evacuation procedures.

• Act as an advocate for individuals being served, both within the organization and also with other entities.

• Adhere to mandatory abuse reporting laws and HIPAA requirements.

• Provide input on all relevant documentation and procedural requirements.

• Complete annual employee training requirements on a timely basis per agency requirements. Attend seminars, training, and other educational opportunities in order to develop professional skills and abilities.

• Integrate best practices into the day to day operations including: Trauma Informed Care and Motivational Interviewing.

• Actively support team members and other managerial and/or volunteer staff.

• Participate in all scheduled staff meetings, supervision sessions, and other departmental and agency meetings

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Regulatory & Compliance