What are the responsibilities and job description for the Behavioral Health Therapist position at Lincoln County Primary Care Center?
JOB STATEMENT/SUMMARY
The Behavioral Health Therapist provides high-quality, patient-centered behavioral health services in a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) setting. This position supports integrated care delivery by working in collaboration with primary care providers and other interdisciplinary team members to address mental health and psychosocial needs of individuals across the lifespan. The therapist utilizes evidence-based practices to enhance patient wellness and resilience within a culturally competent, trauma-informed care framework.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION
- Provides comprehensive assessments, diagnoses, and treatment plans for patients experiencing mental health, behavioral, or emotional disorders.
- Conducts individual, group, and/or family therapy using evidencebased modalities suited to client needs.
- Ensures accurate and timely documentation of clinical services and patient progress in the electronic health record (EHR).
- Collaborates with medical providers, case managers, and external partners to coordinate care and ensure continuity of services.
- Educates patients and families on mental health conditions, treatment options, coping strategies, and community resources.
- Maintains uptodate knowledge of behavioral health best practices, state regulations, and FQHC compliance requirements.
- Screens for substance use, domestic violence, trauma, and social determinants of health, and provides referrals as appropriate.
- Participates in crisis intervention and safety planning when necessary.
- Contributes to the development of integrated behavioral health workflows and care pathways.
- Engages in interdisciplinary case consultations and team meetings to support holistic patient care.
- Supports population health initiatives by identifying trends and opportunities for intervention.
- Protects client confidentiality and complies with HIPAA and all applicable laws and policies.
- Participates in ongoing quality improvement efforts and outcome evaluations.
- Upholds SWVHS values and fosters a therapeutic environment that is inclusive, respectful, and welcoming.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Competencies
- Demonstrates strong clinical judgment and therapeutic skills.
- Exhibits effective communication and collaboration with diverse populations.
- Maintains professionalism, flexibility, and cultural humility.
- Adheres to ethical standards and regulatory compliance.
- Prioritizes patientcentered care and continuous improvement.
Education (level and type) and Related Work Experience
- Master’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a related field from an accredited institution.
- Active licensure in West Virginia as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), or equivalent.
- Minimum of two (2) years of clinical experience preferred; experience in a primary care or FQHC setting strongly preferred.
- Current BLS certification required.
- Proficiency with electronic health records and integrated care delivery models preferred.
Professional Growth & Development
Southern West Virginia Health System believes our employees should continually develop their knowledge, skills, and abilities. All employees are expected to participate in SWVHS-sponsored professional development activities (e.g., education programs, in-service meetings, training workshops, coaching, etc.) and remain current in their role capacity through individual development activities (e.g., reading current literature, participating in webinars, attending local and/or regional workshops, etc.).
Safety & Health
Employees are expected to follow Southern West Virginia Health System safety and health policies with respect to infectious diseases, and to protect their health and practice good personal hygiene. Employees with symptoms of an infectious disease should seek medical care. SWVHS expects all employees to promote a work culture that prioritizes health and safety and demonstrate a positive attitude toward risk mitigation.
Supervisory Responsibilities
This job has no supervisory responsibilities.
DISCLAIMER
This is not an all-inclusive job description; therefore, management has the right to assign or reassign schedules, duties, and responsibilities to this job at any time.