Job Summary:

The LMSW/LPC provides services to chronically mentally ill patients to help patients achieve the goals and objectives of their treatment plan whereby inpatient care is no longer needed. The LMSW/LPC helps with psychosocial assessments, discharge planning, community health referrals, abuse and trauma assessments and referrals, and collaborate with physicians and other disciplines to promote patient compliance with medical treatment. The LMSW/LPC is responsible for the delivery of individual, group, and crisis intervention counseling to those experiencing difficulties with addictions, substance abuse, family, patenting, marital problems, stress management, self-esteem, and aging; to promote optimum mental and emotional health. Health care services are coordinated on behalf of the patient and extend beyond the hospital walls in assisting the patient/family with plans to meet patient health needs at discharge and promote care delivery in the appropriate level of care. This position works closely with interdisciplinary team to identify and coordinate services. Thus, this process requires the LMSW/LPC to have direct contact with the patient, the patient’s family, or legal guardian to ensure care coordination.

Major Responsibilities / Duties / Critical Tasks:

• Attends and participate in scheduled treatment team meetings

• Interview patients to obtain information concerning social history, treatment, and other pertinent information

• Manages the caseload of chronically mentally ill patients through ongoing assessment of individualized needs.

• Executes therapeutic and/or crisis interventions, skill building, and case management for individuals.

• Facilities and documents weekly individual and group interactions to aid the patients we serve in understand their psychiatric treatment needs in preparation for the community.

• Fulfills clinical documentation requirements to accurately evaluate the patient’s progress in treatment, ongoing patient and family educational needs and discharge/aftercare needs.

• Maintains accurate records to ensure compliance with Federal and State regulations

• Refers client to supportive services to supplement treatment and counseling.

• Assures that family contracts are established and maintained for each patient (giving consent) in a courteous, professional manner to ensure continuity of care and provide family education.

• Coordinates the interdisciplinary assessment process and develops a psychosocial summary within 3 days of admission.

• Coordinates discharge plans and continuation of care

• Keeps informed of developments in theory and research.

• Adhere to HIPAA guidelines.

• Other duties as assigned.

Accompanying Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies:

• Demonstrate ability to assess patient needs, develop and implement a plan of care.

• Strong oral and written communication skills.

• Strong interpersonal skills (empathy, sincerity, sensitivity).

• Ability to show high level of sensitivity to patient needs and concerns.

• Ability to display a non-judgmental approach and to build trust and rapport with a wide range of people.

• Able to respond to requests for immediate consultation and/or crisis.

• Knowledge of accreditation standards, commitment to self-development, and compliance requirements.

• Potential exposure to patients with agitation and aggression

• Knowledge of CMS requirements/Joint Commission requirements; Texas mental health laws; NASW Code of Ethics; Core values of Social Work; Social Work mission; TAC; Human Development stages; DSM V; psychotherapy and diagnosis; treatment planning and problem solving; crisis intervention; rights of persons receiving mental health services; patient centered care; basic therapies; CBT; group therapies and types of groups; age specific life changes; stages of grief; brief therapy; process group

Required Education / Experience:

• Master’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, or related field from an accredited college or university.

• Must possess current license in the State of Texas

• Two years of health care experience, social services experience in psychiatric setting related to counseling individuals in crisis/trauma situations is preferred. Advanced training as a psychotherapist preferred.

• Bilingual a plus.

• Maintain current AHA Heartsaver CPR certification

• Physical ability to perform SAMA

Working Environment:

This position is in a hospital/secure unit setting