APRN M-F 8H Shift 7-3pm -Crisis Services Center

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 DeKalb Regional Crisis Center provides crisis intervention and stabilization services for adults. Its Crisis Services Center receives walk-ins, emergency-room transfers, and involuntary referrals for evaluation. Individuals may receive further observation in a Temporary Observation Unit or longer stabilization and substance withdrawal management in a Crisis Stabilization Unit.

Requirements

Master’s or doctorate degree in Nursing from an accredited program.
Current Georgia APRN licensure 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 with electronic medical records.
Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods; occasionally lift up to 25 pounds; and respond quickly and effectively in emergencies.

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 examinations, suicide risk assessments, and differential diagnoses.
Develop and implement individualized treatment plans with clients and the treatment team.
Conduct medical screenings and physical examinations to determine medical stability for admission to Temporary Observation or Crisis Stabilization.
Order and interpret diagnostic tests and laboratory work; initiate medical treatment or make referrals when necessary.
Prescribe and manage psychotropic medications according to best practices and agency protocols.
Monitor medication response and adjust treatment regimens as needed.
Educate clients and families about diagnoses, medications, side effects, and self-management strategies.
Document clinical interventions, progress notes, and treatment plans accurately and promptly in the electronic health record.
Provide immediate psychiatric support during behavioral health emergencies and support de-escalation, including serving as a clinical lead during crises.
Collaborate with the Behavioral Emergency Response Team and clinical staff to promote safe, therapeutic outcomes.
Assess risk factors and participate in safety planning, discharge planning, and referrals for continuing care.
Serve as a clinical leader in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings.
Coordinate care with psychiatrists, nurses, case managers, peer specialists, support staff, family members, external providers, and agencies.
Consult with the Medical Director and/or supervising physician as needed, consistent with scope of practice and the collaborative agreement.
Maintain required Georgia licensure and certifications and comply with legal, ethical, regulatory, and agency requirements, including HIPAA, OSHA, and DBHDD regulations.
Participate in audits, quality assurance, performance improvement, continuing education, and professional development.