Admissions Treatment Advocate

American Addiction Centers•Etta, MS

About The Position

The Admissions Treatment Advocate (ATA) welcomes clients to the treatment facility and assists with admission. Working with the Intake team, the ATA helps ensure a smooth, safe, and compliant transition into care. The role includes orienting patients, completing intake paperwork, conducting safety searches, and coordinating information handoffs to the Treatment Team. The ATA may also transport clients in a company vehicle when assigned. The position supports patients during admission and collaborates with Nursing and Clinical staff. It requires accurate documentation, compliance with applicable standards and privacy requirements, professional boundaries, and a compassionate, patient-centered approach. The work environment is primarily 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 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 sit, use hands and fingers, talk or hear, and smell continually; stand, walk, and reach frequently; and climb or balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch occasionally.
Ability to frequently lift and carry up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
Close vision to see a computer monitor, read documents, and operate copy and fax machines; distance vision to drive an automobile if driving is required.

Nice To Haves

Associate 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 new 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 and document contraband and handle it 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 patient 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 inter-departmental meetings.
Enter accurate admission information and progress notes in the electronic health record.
Comply with 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.
When assigned, safely transport clients to and from the facility in compliance with 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, professionalism, and commitment to patient-centered ethical care.
Work overtime, weekends, holidays, and flexible hours as required.