DHHS Behavioral Health Office of Consumer Affairs Administrator

State of Nebraska•Lincoln, NE

9d•$33 - $35•Onsite

About The Position

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Behavioral Health Division is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of Nebraskans through effective behavioral health services. We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Office of Consumer Affairs Administrator (OCA Administrator). This position is responsible for overseeing consumer affairs, the peer support credentialing network and consumer engagement with the state behavioral health system.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree with progressively responsible experience in programs related to health and human services that involve consumer related issues, resolution/monitoring/evaluating service delivery, and creative problem-solving.
In accordance with Nebraska Revised Statute 71-805: The program administrator for consumer affairs shall be a consumer or former consumer of behavioral health services and shall have specialized knowledge, experience, or expertise relating to consumer-directed behavioral health services, behavioral health delivery systems, and advocacy on behalf of consumers of behavioral health services and their families.
Knowledge of: human relations, facilitation techniques, government operating procedures, budgeting and financing, and Department of Health and Human Services programs, the facilities, programs, organization, and operation of the Behavioral Health Services Division and the Behavioral Health Regions, other State agencies and private industry related to substance abuse, and mental health programs; State and federal laws regarding substance abuse, and mental health including confidentiality laws; Department of Health and Human Services rules and regulations, policies, and directives; regulations and court cases relevant to the delivery of behavioral health services at state regional and local levels; understands rural Nebraskan issues.
Skills: Specialized knowledge, experience or expertise relating to consumer directed behavioral services; behavioral health delivery system specifically for consumers with the most disabling illnesses; advocacy on behalf of consumers of behavioral health services; national consumer issues; and mental illness and substance abuse.
Ability to: communicate orally and in writing; role model successful substance abuse, mental health and/or gambling recovery in a positive, supportive way to consumers, elected officials, co-workers, professional staff, providers and the public, explain the concepts/goals of state behavioral health programming and the consumers roles in the partnership; research and develop viable recommendations to assist with emerging, promising, and best practices service system planning; analyze and diplomatically help resolve difficult and complex problems with consumers, providers, administrators, elected officials and the general public; evaluate administrative and service delivery functions for efficiency and effectiveness; persuade and advocate on behalf of consumers of substance abuse, and mental health services; interpret laws, regulations, and procedures.

Nice To Haves

Progressive experience in Social Work, Public Administration, Behavioral Health, or a related field, and have experience in leadership roles within behavioral health or consumer advocacy.
Certification as a Peer Support Specialist or a similar credential is also valued.
Strong knowledge of behavioral health systems and regulations, along with experience in policy development, is crucial.
Experience managing grants or funding for behavioral health programs and a proven track record in consumer advocacy.
Excellent networking skills, data analysis abilities, and public speaking experience are important.
Cultural competency, project management skills, and conflict resolution abilities.
An understanding of consumer rights in behavioral health services and familiarity with relevant technology and data management systems are preferred.

Responsibilities

Services/Acts as a Systems Change Advocate within the Department.
Actively supports and expands Consumer involvement by increasing consumer advocacy and participation.
Advocate for Consumers: Represent the consumer perspective in policy discussions, task forces, and workgroups related to substance abuse and mental health.
Enhance Consumer Engagement: Develop and implement strategies to increase consumer participation and advocacy in behavioral health policy.
Manage Complaints: Oversee and respond to consumer complaints and grievances, track data, and identify trends for system improvements.
Support State Behavioral Health Council: Provide staff support, resources, and reports to the council and its subcommittees. (Joint Advisory Committee on Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services)
Facilitate Consumer Advocacy: Assist in the Mental Health Commitment process and collaborate with various state systems.
Develop Collaborative Relationships: Build partnerships to advocate for consumers across different state systems.
Oversee Office Operations: Manage the Office of Consumer Affairs, including staff supervision and resource management.
Represent the Division: Attend national meetings and conferences to address consumer issues and advocate for policy changes.
Increase Consumer Involvement: Develop and implement plans to enhance consumer participation in service planning and delivery.