Intake Coordinator/Clinician III (Mental Health Services)

 

We all face challenges and transitions in our lives, and when we do, we must be able to count on the strength of community for support. For the people of Los Angeles, Jewish Family Service LA (JFSLA) is that trusted source of support. We are a comprehensive network of services that welcomes individuals and families of all ages and identities to our full spectrum of care. Our highly trained staff and volunteers work closely with individuals and their loved ones to problem-solve and guide them on their paths to safety, security, wellness, and fulfillment. JFSLA staff share in our mission and work towards our goals with the highest level of responsibility, professionalism, and integrity. JFS demonstrates our commitment to our staff by offering a comprehensive benefits package and a nurturing environment.JFSLA is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness.  In recruiting for our team, we seek the unique contributions that individuals can bring from all backgrounds. We strive for a diverse team in order to better serve our clients and ensure our excellence as an organization in identifying, designing and delivering solutions. Be part of our commitment and join our family. For more information on our philosophy and services, please tour our website www.jfsla.org

As part of a multidisciplinary mental health services team, The Intake Coordinator is responsible for coordinating client acceptance into the Mental Health Program from across all internal JFSLA programs/services; external community; and DMH direct referrals.  Qualifications: 

• LCSW or LMFT license required
• Registered in the State of California by the of Board of Behavioral Sciences
• Current unrestricted CA Driver’s License and proof of auto insurance
• Minimum two years of experience working as clinician in a mental health role
• Clean driving record
• Experience with program intake coordination and Medi-Cal eligibility preferred
• Sound clinical skills and solid knowledge of clinical and diagnostic terminology and DSM criteria.  
• Bilingual Spanish, Russian or Farsi is a plus
• Solid proficiency in computer skills (Microsoft suite; Word; Excel, Video platforms (e.g., Zoom) and ability to quickly learn electronic record data base systems required
• Strong organizational, assessment, decision-making, problem-solving and time management skills
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills.  Ability to quickly engage with clients and articulately and professionally communicate with staff, clients and other stakeholders including regulatory agencies
• High degree of detail orientation and analytical thinking required
• Ability to work as part of a team and maintain professional boundaries
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, set priorities and complete documentation within specified timeframes.
• Culturally sensitive and able to work with a multicultural client population
• Open to travel within SPAs 2, 4 and 5 for client in-home intakes, JFSLA site locations or via Telehealth to complete intake services
• Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines as well as be flexible and dependable
• Must be able to pass criminal background check (Live Scan fingerprinting) prior to beginning employment

 Responsibilities/Essential Functions:  

• Work in collaboration with Mental Health and Billing Departments
• Provide initial point of contact for clients referred or self-referred for mental health services
• Collaborate closely with program’s Administrative Assistant to prepare referrals for service
• Work closely with all internal JFS programs to ensure appropriate referral of clients for mental health services
• Communicate with referring treatment team or individuals for additional initial information upon referral.
• Support referred clients through the entire intake workflow process from initial referral through assignment to clinician.  This includes providing initial information and verification of Medi-Cal eligibility or other insurance (OHC); direct client intake sessions in client homes, at JFSLA site locations or via Telehealth; basic needs assessment to determine presenting problems and make initial preliminary diagnosis; analysis of client needs and appropriate selection of fit into service delivery including Stepped Care, Evidenced Based PEI, and OCS. 
• Determine and track appropriate disposition of client referrals for acceptance, denial, referral out, or place client on waitlist. Follow up with waitlist clients to maintain updated priorities for service.
• Complete all program enrollment documentation with client and make assignment of case to clinician caseloads. 
• Coordinate and track caseload openings for clinical staff.  In collaboration with clinical supervisors, determine appointment to caseloads based on appropriate logistics. 
• Consistent, daily communication and coordination with Billing Department to provide necessary client case opening documents for billing to Medi-Cal and other provider insurance companies; ensure coverage issues are mitigated and clients are supported to keep eligible for benefits as appropriate.
• Ability to manage crisis and utilize crisis interventions as needed.  Understand need for immediate accessibility to service delivery for mental health clients.
• Ensure all work is documented in a professionally clinical, articulate and efficient manner.
• Demonstrate tact, initiative, resourcefulness, professional manner, enthusiasm, and non-judgmental attitude.
• Facilitate outreach strategies for increased referrals and client engagement.  Liaison with outside agencies, community members and Department of Mental Health for client outreach purposes.
• Utilize JFS’s Evolv systems for assessment, tracking and monitoring and reporting.
• Compile reports and maintain program statistics for funding sources and regulatory agencies.
• Maintain adherence to updated protocols and procedures for intake service delivery and contract compliance. 
• Identify areas to increase efficiency, and client accessibility relative to contract compliance and utilization management.   
• Attend SPA based Department of Mental Health (DMH) meetings as requested to provide overview of mental health services and intake process to referring agencies.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

 Jewish Family Service is proud to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or status as a veteran. 

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