Description

Purpose:
The Mental Health Specialist is responsible for assisting in the development and maintenance of a therapeutic environment for patients experiencing emotional disturbance. Also assists with the specialized patient care needs of each individual patient using principles of adult development and knowledge of psychopathology.

Responsibilities:

• Adhere to established policies, procedures and standards of care.
• Function within the philosophy of the Behavioral Health Center.
• Acknowledge the specific nature of the patient's dysfunction and considers the effect with community, caregivers, family members, and program staff.
• Participate as a Treatment Team member in assessing the social and emotional needs of the patient.
• Contribute in the development and implementation of individualized patient care plans and assists in the integration into comprehensive treatment plans.
• Supervise and assist patients with personal hygiene tasks including bathing, dressing, eating, caring for clothing, and organizing personal belongings on a daily basis.
• Plan and participates in educational, social and recreational activities for individuals and groups of patients in accordance with treatment plan goals.
• Develop supportive interpersonal relationships with individuals and groups of patients in accordance with treatment plan goals and that will continue the patient's development as an adult.
• Demonstrate knowledge of each patient as an individual within the framework of the family.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree with two (2) years work experience within MH/MR service. OR
• Bachelor's degree in associated field of study without on the job experience (i.e. psychology, sociology). 
• Related work experience in hospital or community setting with psychiatric patients.
• May in the course of their job duties be in rooms where medications are stored. No contact with medications is allowed.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
 

 

• Basic Life Support (BLS) or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)  - required based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire
• Comprehensive Crisis Management (CCMC)  - training required within 60 days of hire
• Act 34
• OAPSA 

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

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