Human Services Specialist II

The City of Alexandria is located in northern Virginia and is bordered by the District of Columbia (Potomac River), Arlington and Fairfax counties. With a population of approximately 150,000 and a land area of 15.75 square miles, Alexandria is the seventh largest city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Alexandria has a charming waterfront and is a unique and historic place to live and work. About one-quarter square miles in the city have been designated as a national or local historic district. We proudly embrace our rich history and seize the endless opportunities that lie ahead. If you are interested in working for the vibrant City of Alexandria, we invite qualified candidates to apply for our Human Services Specialist II position.

An Overview
The Human Services Specialist II responsible for providing clinical case management services to adults with behavioral health issues; often with co-occurring diagnoses (mental health and substance use). The incumbent will use evidence-based practices to collaboratively develop person-centered service plans with the client.

What You Should Bring
The ideal candidate should have knowledge of substance abuse, child and adolescent development and behavioral health disorders; Knowledge of available community resources, such as medical, legal, mental health and, economic and social services; Knowledge of treatment issues related to behavioral, emotional, economic and social problems, including dual diagnosis, and chemical dependency; Skill in engaging a variety of clients and in communicating clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing with clients, other professionals and citizens; Ability to perform individual and group counseling and or provide prevention and education services and the ability to evaluate client needs and formulate goals to resolve social and emotional problems.

The Opportunity

• Regularly assesses clients' status, history, strengths, areas for growth, stage of change, and treatment preferences;
• Provides supportive counseling to clients including but not limited to: crisis intervention, problem solving, psycho-education and wellness planning;
• Assists clients with the development of person-centered service plans and provides case management, attending to needs such as housing, healthy relationships, meaningful activities, daycare, family planning, health care, financial management, education, vocational training and employment;
• Conducts clinical assessments as indicated, including but not limited to mental status exam, bio-psychosocial assessments and diagnostic reviews;
• Locates, procures, coordinates, and monitors the delivery of necessary services for the client and/or their family;
• Assists the client with the completion of necessary documentation to obtain and/or maintain benefits such as disability income and insurance;
• Acts as a liaison between behavioral health services, social services, housing and shelters;
• Assists clients with navigating complex systems such as: court, social, employment, housing and child care services; Provides advocacy for consumers in these systems;
• Meets regularly with an interdisciplinary team to aid in identifying necessary services for clients;
• Identifies and provides targeted outreach and engagement to individuals in the community and in shelters with identified behavioral health needs;
• Attends and participates in staff meetings and staff development programs;
• Prepares reports and maintains documentation in accordance with local, state and federal regulations and accrediting bodies;
• Performs other duties as assigned.

About the Department
The Center for Adult Services (CAS) provides programs and services in Aging; Adult Protective Services; Clinical & Emergency Services; and Community & Residential Support Services for seniors and for persons with mental illness, intellectual disabilities and substance use disorders. CAS provides compassionate and effective person-centered services based on best practices. Our teams support self-determination, safety and recovery for Alexandria residents affected by abuse, neglect, mental illness, intellectual disabilities and substance abuse disorders.

Minimum & Additional Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in psychology, social services, public health, guidance, or a related field; three years of experience in the provision of mental health and/or substance abuse treatment services including some experience at the level of Caseworker; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Employees must possess a valid driver's license issued by the State of their residence.

Preferred Qualifications

Master's Degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Human Services or a related field; At least one year of experience working with clients in crisis; Effectively applying evidence-based practices in treatment with individuals and their families; At least one year of experience working with persons involved with the criminal justice system; Fluent and Bilingual in both English and Spanish.

Notes

This position requires the successful completion of pre-employment background checks including but not limited to: FBI/Federal Records Check; VA State Child Abuse/Neglect Registry; Medicare/Medicaid Fraud Database; education/certifications; and driver's license.

Schedule:
Monday through Friday, 8:00AM - 5:00PM, occasional night/weekend based on client need.