Admissions Clinical Social Worker

DHRM•Petersburg, VA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Central State Hospital (CSH) is a 277-bed Joint Commission accredited psychiatric inpatient facility located in Petersburg, Virginia. CSH has proudly been serving citizens of the Commonwealth since 1870, when we opened our doors as the first psychiatric hospital in the country dedicated to the treatment of African Americans. A new and modern CSH is currently under construction on the same property, with a scheduled completion date of 2027. CSH maintains the only maximum-security treatment facility in the state (111 beds). We also have 166 beds available for individuals in the community who need inpatient care, as well as individuals in the criminal justice system. We believe that treatment should be holistic and focused on the person’s individual needs, recognizing that recovery is not linear or the same for every person. Treatment modalities may include medication, evidence-based group and individual therapy, peer support, psychosocial rehabilitation, vocational training, preparation for court, and treatment for substance use. Central State Hospital is recruiting for an Admissions Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals receiving behavioral health care. In this engaging and dynamic role, the Social Worker will guide patients through the admission, treatment, and discharge process by leading person‑centered evaluations, developing collaborative treatment and discharge plans, and delivering therapeutic interventions that support recovery and community reintegration. This position works closely with patients, families, Community Services Boards (CSBs), community partners, and interdisciplinary treatment teams to ensure seamless coordination of care and strong advocacy for patient needs. Ideal candidates will excel at building relationships, navigating complex clinical and community systems, and maintaining high‑quality, timely documentation in alignment with protocols and hospital standards. With opportunities for professional growth, ongoing training, and participation in department and hospital initiatives, this role offers the chance to contribute meaningfully to our mission while empowering individuals on their path to wellness.

Requirements

Master’s degree in social work.
Experience in social work as it relates to case management and discharge planning.
Experience with intake/assessments, treatment planning and individual, group and family therapy.
Possession of a Valid Driver’s License and must have the ability to provide transportation in a state vehicle as requested.
Knowledge of the principles, theories, practices, services and techniques of social work, preferably with the forensic and/or civilly committed mentally ill population.
Knowledge and demonstrated ability to provide case management and coordinate resources for patients.
Knowledge and demonstrated ability of advanced assessment skills.
Ability and skills in providing individual and group educational/supportive/insight counseling as well as family therapy.
Ability to interview and gather pertinent information from patients and family.
Ability to individually and in conjunction with interdisciplinary teams, develop goals and implement treatment plans according to patient needs and problems.
Knowledge, skills and ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Knowledgeable regarding NASW Code of Ethics.
Ability to perform duties at a fast pace with frequent change.
Ability to interact with other professionals as a contributing team member.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of forensic mental health is desirable.
Prior inpatient social work experience.

Responsibilities

Guide patients through the admission, treatment, and discharge process by leading person‑centered evaluations.
Develop collaborative treatment and discharge plans.
Deliver therapeutic interventions that support recovery and community reintegration.
Work closely with patients, families, Community Services Boards (CSBs), community partners, and interdisciplinary treatment teams to ensure seamless coordination of care and strong advocacy for patient needs.
Maintain high‑quality, timely documentation in alignment with protocols and hospital standards.
Cover other assignments that may include committee assignments, special projects, transportation, coverage for various positions, weekend coverage as needed.