Behavioral Health Community Health Worker (BH CHW)
About The Position
The Behavioral Health Community Health Worker (CHW) utilizes both lived experience in recovery and professional training to support individuals navigating behavioral health, psychiatry, and substance use disorders (SUD) services. This role works as part of an integrated care team to provide emotional support, education, short-term care coordination, and connection to healthcare and community resources. The CHW helps clients overcome barriers, coordinate care, engage in recovery, and improve overall well-being by combining personal insight with knowledge of care systems. Working in both clinical and community-based settings, the CHW will collaborate with Heartland’s clinical teams and external social service agencies to connect clients with appropriate services and support. This position focuses on improving health outcomes and quality of life through education, care coordination, and strengthened access to resources.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED required
- Minimum of 1–2 years in recovery from substance use disorder preferred or 1-2 years’ experience working with community members in recovery from substance use.
- Strong understanding of substance use disorders, recovery models, and trauma-informed care.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage compassionately across diverse populations.
- Familiarity with local community resources and social service systems.
- Ability to manage boundaries and use lived experience appropriately in a professional setting.
- Proficiency in electronic documentation, coordination tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and auto insurance.
Nice To Haves
- associate or bachelor’s degree in social work, public health, or related field preferred.
- Certification as a Community Health Worker preferred (or willingness to obtain within 6 months of hire).
- Experience in healthcare navigation, case management, or working with at-risk populations preferred.
- Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred but not required.
Responsibilities
- Provide one-on-one support and recovery coaching to individuals with mental health or substance use disorders.
- Share lived experience in a professional and empathetic manner to inspire hope and demonstrate the possibility of long-term recovery.
- Assist clients in identifying strengths, setting recovery and health goals, and developing action plans.
- Support clients in accessing treatment options, primary care, housing, employment, and other community resources.
- Help clients navigate the healthcare system, including support for appointments, detox, outpatient programs, and support groups.
- Educate clients on recovery principles, treatment options, and how to manage chronic health conditions and mental wellness.
- Provide advocacy and follow-up during clinical visits to ensure client needs are heard and addressed.
- Assist clients with overcoming barriers to care, including transportation, insurance access, and communication with service providers.
- Facilitate connections to 12-step programs, harm reduction resources, recovery communities, and social support networks.
- Document all interactions, service plans, and client progress accurately in the electronic health record system.
- Coordinate with clinical teams, therapists, case managers, and other staff to support holistic care.
- Educate individuals and communities about substance use, recovery pathways, and how to navigate health and social service systems.
- Participate in care coordination meetings, treatment planning, trainings, and community outreach.
- Maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to all applicable HIPAA, regulatory, and ethical guidelines.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
