What are the responsibilities and job description for the Behavioral Health Specialist position at Dutchess County Department of Mental Health?
Job Overview
Behavioral Health Specialist – Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Dutchess County Department of Mental Health
2024 CSEA Grade 15, Step 1 Salary: $71,640 annually full County benefits
The Dutchess County Department of Mental Health is seeking a Behavioral Health Specialist to provide clinical support within its Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) — a structured outpatient treatment program that serves adults managing complex behavioral health and/or co-occurring addiction-related challenges.
In this role, you will provide evidence-based group and individual interventions, participate in case consultations, and work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to support stabilization, skill development, and recovery readiness. This is a full-time, weekday position (standard business hours).
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Deliver structured group and individual therapeutic interventions within the IOP
- Conduct psychosocial assessments and assist in treatment planning
- Document client engagement and progress in the electronic health record
- Participate in care coordination with internal providers and external partners
- Respond to behavioral health crises with consultation support as needed
- Contribute to discharge planning and continuum-of-care transitions
Required Qualifications:
Licensed by the NYS Department of Education as one of the following:
- Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), or
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
The following experience is not required for consideration but is strongly preferred and will strengthen a candidate’s alignment with the IOP setting:
- Case management, counseling, and client advocacy experience
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams
- Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or related field
- Proficiency in database management and record-keeping
- Understanding of confidentiality and ethical guidelines
Additional Details:
- This is a full-time CSEA competitive civil service position
- Standard Monday–Friday schedule, daytime hours
- Fingerprint-supported background check required
- Must possess a valid NYS Driver License at time of application and throughout employment
- Generous County benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, paid time off, and NYS Retirement System enrollment
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $71,640.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Mileage reimbursement
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $71,640