Admissions Treatment Advocate

American Addiction Centers•Etta, MS

About The Position

The Admissions Treatment Advocate (ATA) welcomes clients to the treatment facility and supports their admission process. Working with the Intake team, the ATA helps ensure a smooth, safe, and compliant transition into care through patient orientation, intake paperwork, safety searches, and information handoff to the Treatment Team. The role may also include transporting clients in a company vehicle. The ATA provides supportive, compassionate interactions with patients while maintaining professional boundaries and confidentiality. The position collaborates with Nursing and Clinical staff, documents admissions and progress notes in the electronic health record, and follows applicable state standards, accreditation requirements, HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and AAC policies. The work environment is indoors and climate controlled, with occasional exposure to outdoor weather and moderate noise.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED from an accredited institution.
Valid driver’s license and an insurable driving record.
Working knowledge of vehicle safety and control systems.
Ability to read, write, and interpret written information; type documentation; present information to groups; and participate in meetings.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Ability to maintain crisis-intervention certification.
Ability to meet the listed physical requirements, including lifting and carrying up to 10 pounds frequently and up to 25 pounds occasionally.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in behavioral sciences, including social sciences, human services, counseling, or psychology.
At least one year of experience in a behavioral healthcare field.
Experience using electronic health record software and documentation.

Responsibilities

Welcome patients and explain program rules, schedules, and expectations.
Complete and explain admission paperwork, obtain signatures, and assign treatment teams.
Support the intake process and provide encouragement and reassurance during admission.
Conduct belongings and safety searches, including changes of clothing when appropriate; identify, document, and handle contraband according to chain-of-custody procedures and facility policy.
Perform visual security checks during intake and intervene in crisis situations using approved de-escalation techniques.
Collaborate with Nursing and Clinical staff on patient support as assigned.
Encourage participation in group, individual, and family counseling services.
Communicate with patients, staff, and families using clear written and verbal communication.
Participate in monthly staff and interdepartmental meetings to coordinate care.
Enter accurate admission information and progress notes in the electronic health record.
Follow state standards, facility accreditation requirements, HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and AAC policies.
Promptly report potentially harmful situations to the Admissions Manager, Clinical Leadership, or Executive Director.
Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
Transport clients to and from the facility as needed, following traffic laws and safety protocols.
Assist clients entering and exiting vehicles and answer orientation questions during transport.
Maintain the cleanliness and safety of assigned vehicles.
Demonstrate dependability, adaptability, compassion, and professional conduct in patient interactions.
Work overtime, weekends, holidays, and flexible hours as required.