Police Behavioral Health Responder

Job Description Summary:  The main goal of the position is to support law enforcement in addressing a variety of social determinants of health, with an emphasis on mental health and substance use, and the effects of these variables on the individuals' quality of life and engagement with the police.  This role will bring a kind, compassionate approach to their work with coworkers as well as individuals who require services because Ozark Center is a trauma-informed institution that serves clients who frequently have co-occurring illnesses and are often impacted by trauma.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, counseling, psychology, or related field

Preferred Qualifications:

• Degree in nursing, psychology, counseling, healthcare administration or related field.
• 3-5 Years of experience in case management or mental health services

Responsibilities:

• Crisis response: 
  • Respond to situations involving individuals with psychosocial needs as identified by law enforcement officers, both in the office and in community settings.
• Coordination of care
  • Collaborate with community organizations, agencies and schools to ensure comprehensive care
  • Coordinate referrals for counseling, mental health, medical, housing and other services as needed
  • Help people obtain other essential support services, such as housing, healthcare, work, education, and other services pertaining to social determinants of health.
  • Determine whether recommendations were successful by following up on them.
  • Interview clients and their families and perform various screenings and needs assessments.
  • Maintain proper documentation for client files, including intake information and process notes
• Advocacy and Support
  • Advocate for clients’ needs within the criminal justice system
  • Provide emotional support to individuals and their families
  • Assist with locating sources of support, obtaining appointments as necessary and connecting clients to relevant providers
• Provide ongoing education to staff and, when appropriate, the community on various community resources, trauma-informed principles and other relevant topics.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements:

• Typical physical demands include prolonged sitting, frequent standing, bending, and stooping. 
• Requires normal range of hearing and manual dexterity sufficient to operate keyboard, telephone, photocopier, calculator, and other office equipment as needed. 
• Requires ability to work under stressful conditions and to work irregular hours. 
• TB Test upon hire.