Mental Health Practitioner, Geriatric Specialist

University of Washington•Seattle, WA

3d•$36 - $51

About The Position

Harborview Medical Center’s Behavioral Health Department has an outstanding opportunity for a Mental Health Practitioner, Geriatric Specialist. The goal of the program is to promote and provide long-term care and support, with the objective of aging in place. We assess and facilitate medical and behavioral health services for older adults who are enrolled. We work with family and with formal and informal providers regarding housing, benefits, and culturally relevant treatment to meet the needs of those we serve. We assist clients in developing and maintaining meaningful and productive life roles. This position on the Geriatric Services team engages with outside service providers, case-management, outreach, consultations, coordination of care and counseling services. As the region's only Level I Trauma and verified burn center, Harborview Medical Center is a comprehensive healthcare facility owned by King County and operated by UW Medicine. It is dedicated to providing specialized care for a broad spectrum of patients from throughout the Pacific Northwest, including the most vulnerable residents of King County. It provides exemplary patient care in leading-edge centers of emphasis, including emergency medicine, trauma and burn care, neurosciences, ophthalmology, vascular surgery, HIV/AIDS, rehabilitation, mental health and substance abuse care. Harborview employees are committed to the vital role the institution plays in the immediate community, as well as the entire Northwest region. UW Medicine’s mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow’s physicians, scientists and other health professionals. All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that includes: Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, Valley Medical Center, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest. Become part of our team. Join our mission to make life healthier for everyone in our community. Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81 .

Requirements

A Master’s Degree in behavioral sciences, such as psychology, psychiatric nursing, occupational therapy, vocational or educational counseling, or social work OR Bachelor’s Degree in nursing or a behavioral science AND three years’ of experience in the direct delivery of professional mental health care.
Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
Geriatric experience is equivalent to one year of full-time experience in the treatment of persons sixty years of age or older, under the supervision of a geriatric mental health specialist and or taken courses related to Gerontology and Geriatric care.

Responsibilities

Conduct initial screenings and psychiatric evaluations for new clients
Provide mental health case management and counseling for assigned caseload
Develop and implement individualized care plans in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team
Assess patient needs, manage crises, and determine appropriate interventions
Coordinate housing, funding, and medication services as needed
Facilitate diversion from psychiatric hospitalization when clinically appropriate
Maintain accurate and timely documentation in medical records
Lead or co-lead therapeutic groups and assist in program planning
Ensure compliance with confidentiality regulations and recovery-oriented principles
Support clients in achieving goals related to housing, employment, education, and community integration