Position: Assessment and Referral Therapist
Reports to: Director of Assessment and Referral
Summary: The Assessment and Referral Therapist is responsible for responding effectively to requests for information on a wide range of human service needs. The position is responsible for direct contact with potential clients, patients, residents, referral sources, physicians, clinical treatment team members and case managers. The position is expected to make an accurate assessment of inquirers’ problems and needs, identify resources to meet their needs, make the appropriate referrals and provide advocacy when required.

Requirements: Masters Degree in Social Work, Psychology or mental health/human services field from an accredited graduate program. Must be eligible to obtain a license through the Illinois Board of Regulations within one year of employment. A minimum of two (2) years experience in the evaluation and treatment of mental illness preferred. LCSW or applicable license. Able to demonstrate effective communication skills. Possess a thorough working knowledge of the State of Illinois Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Act. Must be able to effectively work with children, adolescents, and families and demonstrate an understanding of normal growth and development, as well as developmental stages. Must possess knowledge of crisis intervention techniques.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS:
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITY

• Knowledge of information referral.
• Knowledge of the federal, state and local laws that pertain to enquires right to privacy and confidentiality.
• Knowledge utilization review skills.
• Knowledge of legal obligations for reporting abuse and/or neglect.
• Knowledge of PSI policies, procedures and practices that reflect requirements or limitations imposed by the agency’s funding sources.
• Knowledge of community resources relating to patient care.
• Knowledge of the human services delivery system.
• Knowledge of government programs eligibility requirements.
• Knowledge of clinical and age appropriate behaviors.
• Knowledge of the Mental Health Code and Privacy Act.
• Excellent time management skill.
• Skill in assessing suicide risk.
• Strong customer service skills.
• Ability to make accurate assessment of the inquirer’s problems and needs.
• Ability to understand levels of crisis.
• Ability to explain the assessment process and admission.
• Ability to operate in an unstructured environment and orchestrate a myriad of activities within complex systems.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of information.
• Ability to work as a team player.
• Experience using computer system.