Discharge Planner

Newport Academy is a gender-specific, comprehensive treatment program for adolescents suffering from mental health, behavioral health and substance abuse issues. The program combines the key elements essential in effectively treating adolescent girls and boys with substance abuse and other mental health disorders. As compared with adults, adolescents have higher rates of dual diagnosis and developmental differences. Adolescent treatment needs can be challenging and often involves more comprehensive and multi-disciplinary approaches. At Newport Academy, we deliver a highly individualized, holistic approach to treatment where psychological, biological, spiritual, social and educational needs are continually assessed and revised throughout the treatment process. 

Under the supervision of the Clinical Director, the Discharge Planner is responsible for serving as a liaison in relation to all case management and discharge planning within the facility.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: (other duties may be assigned)

• Work with clinical team and families upon admission to create a discharge plan file with exceptions noted.

• Be familiar with all levels of care and the typical transitioning process for the client’s current level of care.

• Maintain consistent contact with the utilization review team to monitor current and anticipated insurance coverage.    

• Meet with families as needed during treatment to explain continuing care procedures and process.

• Coordinate with clinical team the clinical recommendation for continuing care and assist with presenting to the family. Amend the recommendation based on other considerations such as finances, insurance, location, etc.  

• Assist families with discharge planning by explaining placement options, providing specific referrals based on criteria involved in recommendation, and coordinating the admission for future placement. 

• Assist clients and families with the identification of a support network, instructions for future care, follow-up and concerns, and requests regarding care upon discharge.

• Assist families with completion of all clinical documentation needed for transition to their continuing care program.

• Coordinate and participate in educational and training activities related to continuing care planning for clients, including extensive travel to visit programs and facilities both locally and nationally.

Other Related Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to manage time effectively. 

• Proficient in basic computer skills. 

• Engage in appropriate written and verbal communication with families and other professionals.

• Demonstrate professionalism by using objectivity, maintaining self-control when under pressure, separating professional from person issues, displaying emotional maturity, maintaining a high degree of integrity and promoting a positive work environment by setting an example.

• State of California License Preferred (LCSW, LPC or LMFT)

• Minimum of one (1) experience in a clinical setting.

• Must have knowledge and experience in the development of mental health discharge plans and coordination with community service providers.

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