Behavioral Health Specialist - Kirkland, WA

Summary: Connections Health Solutions is a leading provider of immediate-access behavioral health crisis care. The Behavioral Health Specialist is responsible for managing the safety of individuals and staff, providing exceptional customer service, and documenting services in the Electronic Health Record. Responsibilities: - The Behavioral Health Specialist (BHS) manages and maintains the safety of the individuals and staff - The BHS takes vitals and assists individuals in meeting their needs while on the unit by providing exceptional customer service - Documents services provided and significant interactions in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) - Conducts security screening and inventories property of individuals upon admission to the facility - Provides orientation to the Observation Unit and Short-term Inpatient Unit - Educates individuals on their rights under DBHDS and DMAS regulations, grievance process, provides expectations, and explains rules and regulations - Maintains safety of the unit - Intervenes with escalated individuals using therapeutic techniques for de-escalation and performs restraints or seclusions (if applicable) when needed to ensure the individual’s safety and the safety of others - Completes 1-to-1 on an individual in seclusion or mechanical restraints for 15 minutes - Lifts, moves, and transports individuals using proper body mechanics or accident prevention - Assists individuals with activities of daily living to include eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, and transferring - Conducts and documents individual's vitals and reports all questionable results to the RN/Physician attending the individual - Conducts and documents all BAL, urine drug screens, and urine pregnancy tests - Attends court ordered hearings when subpoenaed and be a witness on a petition and provide testimony at court ordered hearings - Documents all services and significant individual interactions in the Electronic Health Record - Monitors and documents individuals every 15 minutes - Responsible for maintaining and ensuring the cleanliness of the facility and designated assigned unit - Performs light cleaning of interior center, collects soiled linen, and launders individuals clothing when needed - Performs all other duties as assigned Required Qualifications: - High school diploma or equivalent - 1 year of behavioral health or relevant experience/competency of the job - Registered Agency Affiliated Counselor (AAC) certification, or ability to obtain certification within 30 days of hire - Ability to perform Safe Clinch patient restraint techniques - The Company has a mandatory vaccination policy. All successful applicants must be fully vaccinated, including showing proper documentation, or otherwise be exempt pursuant to the Company's exemption process prior to their start date as a condition of employment - Complete all credentialing requirements within the required time period, including but not limited to obtaining a National Provider Identifier (NPI), Medallion enrollment, Medicare enrollment, and any other necessary credentials as required for the role - Must be able to obtain a Washington State Food Handler's Card (BHS and RSS positions) - Safely perform physical interventions (e.g., standing, pivoting, reaching, kneeling, lowering to the floor, and supporting another person's weight) - Lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lbs. occasionally - Tolerate prolonged walking, standing, and observation in a fast-paced environment - Work with individuals who may exhibit agitation, aggression, or unpredictable behavior Preferred Qualifications: - Certified training (Safe Clinch, therapeutic options, etc.) - Completion of CNA or Patient Care Tech program - Completion of BHT certification Required Skills: Behavioral Health, Registered Agency Affiliated Counselor (AAC) Certification, Safe Clinch Patient Restraint Techniques, Electronic Health Record (EHR) Documentation, Vital Signs Measurement, Blood Alcohol Level (BAL) Testing, Urine Drug Screening, Urine Pregnancy Testing, Washington State Food Handler's Card, Customer Service Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity, CHS pays for Basic Life, AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability, Voluntary Life insurance option for employees and their families, Health Savings Accounts (with $1,000 to $2,000 employer contribution depending on plan), Flexible Spending Accounts (health care and dependent care), 401k company match after 6 months (50% of deferrals up to 6% of compensation), Generous PTO starting at 160 hours accrued annually and 12 recognized company holidays, Employee Assistance Program to help with confidential emotional support, work life solutions, financial solutions, legal assistance, or online support, After 90 days, you are auto enrolled in the 401k Plan