Advanced Practice Registered Nurse - 216101

Claratel Behavioral Health•Decatur, GA

About The Position

The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) at the Behavioral Health Crisis Center (BHCC) provides advanced psychiatric and medical care to individuals experiencing acute behavioral health crises. Working with a multidisciplinary team, the APRN evaluates, diagnoses, and manages mental health and co-occurring substance use conditions. The role includes medical oversight, psychopharmacological management, crisis intervention, and coordination of care from admission through discharge in a fast-paced, trauma-informed environment. The position is based in the DeKalb Regional Crisis Center, which provides crisis intervention and stabilization for adults through crisis services, temporary observation, and crisis stabilization. The APRN consults with the Medical Director and/or supervising physician as needed, consistent with scope of practice and the collaborative agreement.

Requirements

Master’s or Doctorate degree in Nursing from an accredited program.
Current Georgia APRN license with a psychiatric/mental health specialty (PMHNP-BC).
DEA registration and prescriptive authority in Georgia.
At least two years of clinical experience in a psychiatric setting.
Clinical expertise in psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, and crisis stabilization.
Strong communication, clinical documentation, and organizational skills.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-acuity setting.
Commitment to recovery-oriented, client-centered, and trauma-informed care.
Proficiency in electronic medical records.

Nice To Haves

Experience in crisis or emergency psychiatric care.
Experience working with individuals with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI) and co-occurring disorders.

Responsibilities

Perform comprehensive psychiatric assessments, including histories, mental status exams, suicide risk assessments, and differential diagnoses.
Develop and implement individualized treatment plans with clients and the treatment team.
Conduct medical screenings and physical exams to determine medical stability for Temporary Observation or Crisis Stabilization admission.
Order and interpret diagnostic tests and laboratory work; initiate medical treatment or make referrals when necessary.
Prescribe and manage psychotropic medications in accordance with best practices and agency protocols.
Monitor client responses to medications and adjust regimens as needed.
Provide clients and families with education about diagnoses, medications, side effects, and self-management strategies.
Accurately and promptly document clinical interventions, progress notes, and treatment plans in the electronic health record.
Provide immediate psychiatric support during behavioral health emergencies at the BHCC.
Participate in de-escalation and serve as a clinical lead during crises when needed.
Collaborate with the Behavioral Emergency Response Team and other clinical staff to support safe, therapeutic outcomes.
Assess risk factors and participate in safety planning, discharge planning, and referrals for continuing care.
Provide clinical leadership in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings.
Coordinate care with psychiatrists, nurses, case managers, peer specialists, and support staff.
Communicate with families, external providers, and agencies to support continuity of care and community reintegration.
Consult with the Medical Director and/or supervising physician as needed, in accordance with scope of practice and the collaborative agreement.
Maintain required Georgia APRN licensure and certifications.
Follow legal, ethical, and regulatory standards, including HIPAA, OSHA, DBHDD regulations, and agency policies.
Participate in internal audits, quality assurance, and performance improvement initiatives.
Engage in continuing education and professional development relevant to psychiatric practice and crisis stabilization.