Behavioral Health Intake Specialist
Job Summary
The Behavioral Health Intake Specialist serves as the primary point of contact for individuals seeking mental health services. This role involves conducting clinical screenings, assessing crisis situations, and determining the appropriate level of care. Specialists coordinate with internal teams and community partners to ensure a seamless entry into mental health support systems.
Responsibilities
- Triage incoming behavioral health calls
- Conduct clinical screenings and risk assessments
- Determine appropriate levels of care
- Coordinate referrals and appointments
- Document records in EMR
Required Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Psychology or Social Work
- Crisis de-escalation skills
- Clinical assessment and documentation
- Strong critical thinking and problem-solving
- Ability to work in fast-paced/remote environments
Job Details
Position Summary: Behavioral Health Intake Specialists are the first point of contact for individuals seeking mental health services at WellPower. They respond to calls and referrals from hospitals, community partners, and the public. They complete billable behavioral health screenings to gather clinically relevant information, identify symptoms suggestive of mental health diagnoses, and use clinical judgment to determine the appropriate level of care. Team members help de-escalate callers experiencing crises as needed. This role works closely with teams across the organization to ensure a smooth, supportive, and person-centered start to care.
Job Duties & Functions:
- Maintain reliable attendance and punctuality to ensure consistent coverage of the Access phone line and team operations.
- Answer and use behavioral health screening to triage incoming calls on the Access phone line.
- Assess crisis situations over the phone and respond appropriately.
- Verify consumer information across multiple computer platforms.
- Understand and interpret behavioral health insurance coverage, including verifying eligibility.
- Complete billable behavioral health screenings and clinically assess the best level of care for the individual, including documenting assessed clinical risk.
- Schedule initial appointments for new and returning individuals.
- Communicate with hospital social workers and other community partners regarding referrals.
- Refer individuals to community mental health providers when appropriate.
- Coordinate appointment scheduling with team members.
- Document all work in the electronic medical record (EMR).
- Other duties as assigned.
Requirements & Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work or a related human services field.
- One (1) year of experience in mental health or human services preferred.
Physical Requirements & Working Conditions:
- Repetitive hand and finger motions for computer use.
- Ability to navigate computer systems and respond to calls.
- Capacity to manage emotionally charged situations while maintaining professional boundaries.
- Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills to manage multiple tasks and shifting priorities.
- Work involves regular computer use in a fast-paced environment that can be emotionally demanding.