What are the responsibilities and job description for the Behavioral Health Counselor position at Bath Community Hospital?
Position Title: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) / Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Department: Behavioral Health
Department: Behavioral Health
Position Summary
The Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) provides comprehensive, recovery-oriented behavioral health services to patients across the lifespan. This role is responsible for conducting assessments, developing and implementing treatment plans, providing psychotherapy, and coordinating care to support optimal patient outcomes. The LCSW/LPC manages an assigned caseload and collaborates with internal teams and community resources to ensure continuity of care.
Essential Functions
- Conduct comprehensive intake assessments, including psychosocial evaluations, diagnosis, and level-of-care determinations
- Develop, implement, and regularly update individualized treatment plans in collaboration with patients and, when appropriate, family members
- Provide evidence-based psychotherapy services, including individual, family, and group therapy
- Maintain timely, accurate, and complete clinical documentation in accordance with regulatory and organizational standards
- Provide crisis intervention and appropriate follow-up care as needed
- Coordinate care with providers, interdisciplinary team members, and external community resources
- Facilitate referrals for additional services, including medical or specialty evaluations
- Manage assigned caseload to ensure appropriate access, continuity, and quality of care
- Ensure compliance with HIPAA, confidentiality standards, and all applicable federal and state regulations
- Maintain current licensure and meet continuing education requirements
Additional Responsibilities
- Participate in department meetings, case reviews, and required trainings
- Support quality improvement initiatives and organizational goals
- Adhere to all Bath Community Hospital policies, procedures, and safety standards, including infection control
- Assist with department and organizational needs as assigned
Qualifications
Education and Licensure
- Active and unrestricted Virginia LCSW or LPC license required
Experience
- Prior clinical experience in behavioral health preferred, but not required
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong clinical assessment and diagnostic skills
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills with diverse populations
- Ability to work independently while collaborating within a multidisciplinary team
- Knowledge of behavioral health best practices and applicable regulations
- Proficient in electronic health records and basic computer applications
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods throughout the workday
- Frequent use of hands for documentation and computer work
- Ability to occasionally lift or move up to 25–50 pounds
- Visual and auditory ability sufficient to assess and interact with patients
Work Environment
- Primarily indoor clinical setting
- May involve exposure to patients in crisis or with behavioral health conditions
- Occasional exposure to biological hazards; appropriate PPE provided as needed
- Noise level typically moderate
Compliance and Expectations
- Maintain patient confidentiality at all times
- Complete all required trainings and competencies within established timeframes
- Maintain licensure and certifications in good standing
- Participate in required meetings or review materials to stay informed