Mental Health Court Specialist
About The Position
The Mental Health Court Specialist supports participants in Allegheny County’s voluntary Mental Health Court program, which promotes access to community treatment and services rather than incarceration for people with mental illness who have been charged with a crime. Working as part of a team that includes probation and treatment providers, the specialist performs case management and advocates for participants’ success in court. Support may include connecting participants with housing, treatment, benefits, medication, food, clothing, and transportation. The role provides person-centered case management, helps participants navigate court and related systems, coordinates behavioral health and community services, and maintains compliant documentation. The position is full-time at 40 hours per week, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with a flexible hybrid work model that includes remote administrative tasks and fieldwork.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Education, Nursing, Criminal Justice, or a related field.
- Two years of experience in case management, behavioral health, or a related field, or equivalent experience in behavioral health settings.
- Knowledge of mental health and addiction treatment principles.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage a caseload and deadlines.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with cultural competence to work effectively with diverse populations.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented environment.
- Act 33, Act 34, and Allegheny County Jail Security Clearance, required upon hire.
- Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license.
- Access to a personal vehicle with current insurance coverage.
Nice To Haves
- Master’s degree.
Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary contact and advocate for individuals and families, ensuring services align with their needs and goals.
- Develop individualized service plans based on assessments and update them regularly to reflect progress and evolving needs.
- Provide face-to-face support to clients at least once per month or as needed.
- Assist clients in navigating the criminal justice system, including court proceedings, probation or parole requirements, and treatment services.
- Coordinate with behavioral health providers to support access to mental health, drug and alcohol services, and other community supports.
- Facilitate interdisciplinary team meetings with stakeholders, including families, healthcare providers, probation officers when appropriate, and others involved in treatment.
- Advocate for clients’ access to needed resources and provide feedback to address systemic barriers.
- Collaborate with treatment providers and community partners to develop discharge plans and post-release services.
- Serve as a liaison between clients, providers, and systems to support communication and care coordination.
- Maintain accurate records of interactions, including service plans, case notes, and assessments, in electronic health records.
- Ensure compliance with HIPAA and other confidentiality policies.
- Participate in program audits and quality reviews to ensure services meet agency and regulatory standards.
- Participate in ongoing training on best practices in mental health, substance use, and criminal justice services.
- Offer support and mentorship to new staff.
Benefits
- Mileage and parking reimbursement for fieldwork.
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid time off (PTO) and holidays.
- Retirement savings plan.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
