Behavioral Health Clinician (BHC) - MH081

Native American Rehabilitation Assoc. of the NW•Portland, OR

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Behavioral Health Consultant (BHC) at NARA Northwest's Indian Health Clinic / Wellness Center provides culturally responsive and comprehensive behavioral health services to individuals and families, with a focus on the Native American / Alaska Native community. This role involves conducting clinical assessments, offering brief therapeutic interventions, and providing integrated care within the Adult Mental Health department. The BHC will utilize evidence-based tools such as SBIRT, PHQ-9, and C-SSRS to assess and address mental health, substance use, and suicide risk. This role requires an individual skilled in behavioral health interventions with an understanding of delivering care with cultural sensitivity and humility. The BHC will work closely with primary care teams and multidisciplinary staff to ensure holistic, trauma-informed care aligned with NARA NW’s mission. Regular on-site presence during clinic hours (Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with some evening hours) and some Saturday Diabetes Clinic hours are required.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, or a related field.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Licensed Psychologist, or equivalent licensure in the state of Oregon, OR meet the qualifications for QMHP status in Oregon and be under clinical supervision for licensure as a Mental Health clinician in Oregon.
A minimum of 2 years of experience in behavioral health, preferably in integrated care and/or with Native American / Alaska Native populations.
Expertise in mental health, substance use, and suicide prevention, with a deep understanding of culturally responsive and trauma-informed care.
Proficiency in the administration and interpretation of SBIRT, PHQ-9, and C-SSRS screenings.
Strong skills in assessing risk and Safety Planning with clients.
Ability to provide culturally sensitive care that acknowledges the unique needs of Native American / Alaska Native individuals and families.
Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to build rapport and trust with patients, families, and colleagues.
Capacity for collaboration in multidisciplinary teams, ensuring comprehensive and integrated care for patients.
Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) and documentation.
Must pass a pre-employment or for cause drug tests.
Must pass criminal background and DMV checks.
Employees agree to refrain from illicit drug use, marijuana use, and prescription drug abuse, both on and off the job.
Employees agree to model alcohol sobriety.
Must sign a “Drug-Free/Alcohol-Free Workplace Certification Form” and NARA NW “Modeling Sobriety Policy Form” as a condition of employment.

Nice To Haves

Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CADC) in Oregon.
Experience working within the Native American/Alaska Native community
Experience using SBIRT, PHQ-9, and C-SSRS in clinical practice

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive behavioral health assessments using culturally appropriate tools, such as SBIRT, PHQ-9, and C-SSRS, to assess substance use, mental health, and suicide risk.
Provide brief therapeutic interventions and solution-focused counseling, grounded in cultural awareness and trauma-informed care principles.
Develop individualized treatment plans, collaborating with patients and multidisciplinary teams to address behavioral health concerns and incorporate cultural context.
Provide expert consultation and support to primary care teams, ensuring behavioral health is effectively integrated into the overall care plan.
Work with the Adult Mental Health department and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care, ensuring that mental health, physical health, and social support needs are addressed.
Provide referrals to specialized behavioral health services, treatment programs, and community-based resources for patients, based on screening outcomes and identified needs.
Follow up with patients to track progress, modify treatment plans as necessary, and ensure continued engagement in care.
Educate patients and their families about mental health, substance use, treatment options, and coping strategies with sensitivity to Native American / Alaska Native culture.
Offer training and support to clinic staff and community partners on cultural humility, behavioral health integration, and the use of tools like SBIRT, PHQ-9, and C-SSRS.
Participate in outreach efforts to raise awareness of behavioral health services and promote access to care within the Native American / Alaska Native community, such as Elders lunches.
Contribute to the enhancement of behavioral health programs and services within the Adult Mental Health department that address the unique needs of Native American / Alaska Native individuals and families.
Participate in ongoing evaluation and quality improvement processes (such as Peer Reviews) to ensure that behavioral health services meet community needs and comply with best practices.
Accurately document all patient interactions, assessments, and treatment plans in compliance with NARA NW’s policies and regulatory standards.
Monitor patient outcomes and report on the effectiveness of behavioral health interventions, focusing on the use of SBIRT, PHQ-9, and C-SSRS screenings.

Benefits

Affordable Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance through Kaiser Permanente
15 Paid Holidays
13 Paid Days of Sick Time
13 Paid Days of PTO (Vacation accruals increase with years of service to a maximum of 26 days)
$50,000 Life Insurance & AD&D
Short Term and Long-Term Disability
Flexible Spending Account
Health Spending Account
401(k) with 4% Match
Employee Assistance Program
Inclement Weather Days (Snow Days)
Public Student Loan Forgiveness