Intake Specialist

Childrens Rescue Fund•New York, NY

About The Position

The Intake Specialist is responsible for engaging the new clients to assess their immediate medical, behavioral health and psychiatric needs and link them to the services needed. Provides support to the clients during initial entry into the program and facilitates engagement with program staff and services. Ensures accurate and timely completion of intake documentation in accordance with regulatory compliance requirements.

Requirements

Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred and/or an Associated degree in Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, Counseling, Criminal Justice or Human Services.
Experience: a. Bachelor’s degree (preferred) with a minimum of one (l) year of experience in social services, counseling, crisis intervention, family services, preventive services or housing services preferred. b. Associate degree (considered) with a minimum of two (2) experience in social services, counseling, crisis intervention, family services, preventive services or housing services preferred.
Experience facilitating groups for homeless adults, specialized knowledge of substance abuse issues and treatment, and family dynamics treatment is necessary.
Must have incredible initiative, the ability to work well under pressure, and the ability to be flexible and work both independently and as part of a team to complete complex projects in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Exceptional organizational and time management abilities.
Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
Excellent oral, written, interpersonal communication skills.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work independently or as part of a team.
Demonstrated discretion in handling confidential information.
High level of computer proficiency in Word, Excel, and the ability to learn new technologies and Databases.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual language ability is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Engage new clients to conduct initial intake assessments, connect clients to internal and external services and advocates on behalf of the client.
Collaborate with the client, LPN, Client Care Coordinator and DHS outreach teams in determining the appropriate level of services which will address the client’s immediate needs.
Escort clients to initial appointments with new providers as needed and advocates on behalf of the client.
Monitor client’s stay in program, conduct outreach efforts and collaborate with outreach teams in locating new clients who leave the program and encourage them to return.
Provide counseling and crisis intervention to clients experiencing difficulty in the transition from living in the streets to living in a shelter environment.
Collaborate with social services team members in ensuring the client receives the necessary and appropriate services in a timely manner. Advocates on behalf of the client.
Facilitate groups and workshops to enhance daily living skills and self-care.
Complete all new client intakes and collect identification and documentation within 24 hours of arrival. Maintain accurate documentation in both written and computer databases (CARES), adhering to governmental and agency policies.
Coordinate retrieval of documents and property from previous shelter providers as needed.
Maintain familiarity with program resources available on- and off-site.
Maintain client intake tracking spreadsheets for new clients.
Attend on-site and off-site multidisciplinary team meetings and case conferences.
Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned and required.
Facilitate effective communication with other staff within an interdisciplinary context, participate in and contribute to staff meetings and the development of policies and procedures.
Participate in training and staff-development activities to acquire and maintain both interpersonal and operational skills necessary for successful job performance.
Develop and maintain effective communication with other programs and units within the organization to facilitate inter-agency referrals.
Facilitate transfer of clients to external shelter providers by submitting referral packages.
Develops and submits reports and data as requested.