Behavioral Health Advocate - Field based in Northern Virginia - Remote

UnitedHealth Group • Charlottesville, VA

8h • Hybrid

About The Position

Optum is seeking a Behavioral Health Advocate (BHA) to join their team. This role is field-based in Northern Virginia and involves connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data, and resources they need to live healthier lives. The BHA will work in various environments, including interacting with members leaving the hospital, performing home visits for safe transitions from care, and acting as an intermediary between providers and members. The goal is to reduce hospitalizations, ER visits, and service gaps, leading to a more effective healthcare system. BHAs provide care coordination for adults and children in the SMI/SUD population, spending up to 25% of their week in the community. The schedule is Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm. Residency in Northern Virginia (NOVA) is preferred, but candidates in Charlottesville, VA may be considered.

Requirements

• Licensed Master’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or Marriage and Family Counseling; or Licensed Ph.D.
• Active, unrestricted, independent license in Virginia: LCSW, LMFT, LPC, or LP
• 1+ years of experience in behavioral health
• Proficient computer skills including good working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Outlook
• Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation that will allow you to travel within an assigned territory
• Access to secure, high-speed internet (Broadband Cable, DSL, or Fiber) and a dedicated, distraction-free workspace at home
• Reside in Northern Virginia or the Charlottesville, VA area

Nice To Haves

• 1+ years of experience working with Medicaid population
• 1+ years of Community Mental Health experience
• 1+ years of experience working with local and state community resources in Virginia
• Medical / Behavioral setting experience (i.e., hospital, managed care organization, or joint medical / behavioral outpatient practice)
• Dual diagnosis experience with mental health and substance abuse
• Experience working in an environment that required coordination of benefits and utilization of multiple groups and resources for patients
• Experience working with Medicaid funded programs
• Experience working with youth and adults who have serious behavioral health needs

Responsibilities

• Visit Medicaid members in their homes and/or other settings, including community centers, hospitals, or providers’ offices
• Provide a complete continuum of quality care through close communication with members via in-person or on-phone interaction
• Support members with condition education, medication reviews, and connections to resources such as Home Health Aides or Meals on Wheels
• Assist members with the transition from a care facility back to their home
• Work with network providers to ensure timely access to services and coordinate service needs
• Seek consultation and support from other members of core and extended care team as needed such as RN, Medical Director, Provider and Community Liaisons
• Perform care planning and care management

Benefits

• Competitive salaries
• Comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, 401(k) matching, and a wide range of life and wellness resources to support your overall well-being
• Paid time off and paid company holidays
• Continuing education support, including CEU and licensure reimbursement
• Mileage reimbursement for work-related travel
• Opportunities to make a meaningful impact by supporting your local community and partnering with area resources
• Incentive and recognition programs
• Equity stock purchase
• 401k contribution

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees