Behavioral Health Access Specialist

Bright Harbor Healthcare • Toms River, NJ

4d

About The Position

The Access Intake Specialist is responsible for admitting clients into the agency. The role evaluates incoming referrals from outside agencies and conducts intakes to support appropriate placement within Bright Harbor. The Specialist works closely with the Access Coordinator to ensure appropriate care and linkage to services. The position is based in Toms River, New Jersey, in the Access department, and is full-time at 35 hours per week, with one evening required. Hours may be flexed for individuals pursuing a degree.

Requirements

• Associate's degree plus two years of experience.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Excellent computer skills.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in a health and human services field.

Responsibilities

• Respond to incoming calls and inquiries from prospective clients, gather referral information, and maintain accurate documentation in the EMR.
• Schedule initial client assessments (CIAP) and assist individuals with required applications and screenings.
• Facilitate warm handoffs to billing to initiate financial eligibility and insurance determination.
• Conduct brief mental health screenings and provide crisis intervention and referrals to PESS when clinically indicated.
• Triage referrals and coordinate intake, psychiatric evaluation, and substance use assessment appointments according to clinical acuity and urgency.
• Coordinate after-hours crisis coverage schedules, monitor documentation, track service utilization, and facilitate follow-up with appropriate staff.
• Conduct follow-up outreach to individuals who miss, cancel, or fail to reschedule appointments and coordinate follow-up with PESS.
• Participate in clinical and departmental meetings to support communication, collaboration, and continuity of care.
• Participate in agency Performance Improvement initiatives to enhance access to services, operational efficiency, and quality of care.
• Perform additional assigned duties while complying with agency policies, procedures, confidentiality, and documentation standards.

Benefits

• Full benefits
• 12 paid holidays
• Sick days
• Personal days
• Accrued vacation days
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Company-paid life insurance and long-term disability
• 403(b) plan with company match
• Training, education, and continuing education credit opportunities
• Public Loan Forgiveness opportunities
• Tuition discounts from participating institutions

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree