Mental Health Specialist - Inglewood

U.S.VETS•Inglewood, CA

17d•$23 - $26•Onsite

About The Position

The Mental Health Specialist plays a key role in supporting the emotional and psychological well-being of veterans currently experiencing homelessness. This position provides direct services—including counseling, case management, and advocacy—to a caseload of up to 19 veterans, with a focus on harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and recovery-oriented support.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
Minimum 2 years of experience providing direct mental health services to individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, preferably within homeless services.
Demonstrated experience utilizing harm reduction and motivational interviewing frameworks.
Proficient in DSM-5 diagnostic practices and crisis intervention techniques.
Experience providing both individual and group therapy for clients with co-occurring disorders.
Strong interpersonal, conflict resolution, and crisis management skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic case management systems.
Valid California driver’s license required.
Ability to pass a Food Handler’s Course upon hire.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, or a related field (meeting requirements for LMFT or LPCC licensure under the California BBS).
Clinical license (LCSW, LMFT, LPCC) preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Provide clinical case management and short-term individual counseling using a harm reduction approach.
Deliver substance abuse counseling to veterans requesting support.
Conduct crisis intervention, risk assessments, and coordinate emergency response as needed.
Support residents in achieving program goals related to housing retention, skill-building, income growth, and financial management.
Facilitate group counseling sessions and community meetings.
Provide community-based support, including transportation of veterans as appropriate.
Collaborate with VA providers, case managers, and multidisciplinary teams to coordinate care.
Complete timely documentation, including intakes, progress notes, psychosocial assessments, and treatment plans.
Participate in residential program activities such as wellness checks, meal preparation, and medication reminders.
Maintain after-hours availability for veteran emergencies on a rotating basis.
Attend required trainings and staff meetings, and contribute to program improvement efforts.