Psychiatric Counselor Behavioral Health Full Time Evenings

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare•Winfield, IL

About The Position

The Psychiatric Counselor delivers direct care to psychiatric patients under the direction of the Patient Care Manager, Charge Nurse, or Staff Nurse. The role involves interacting effectively with patients, their support networks, and the multidisciplinary treatment team to identify and treat crises. The position reflects Northwestern Medicine’s mission, vision, and values and follows its Code of Ethics, compliance program, policies, procedures, and applicable regulatory and accreditation standards. This is a full-time, 0.9 FTE position working 3:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., including every other weekend.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
CPR – Basic Life Support certification.
De-escalation training within six months of hire.
One year of experience in a behavioral health unit or one completed semester of internship in a behavioral health field.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a behavioral health science field.
Experience in mental health or substance abuse.

Responsibilities

Conduct intakes, including the BHS Pre-Admission Assessment, admission forms, voluntary forms, and explanation of patient rights.
Orient patients to the unit and conduct body and belongings searches under the direction of the Charge RN.
Plan and implement care in collaboration with the multidisciplinary team.
Begin and contribute to the Master Treatment Plan.
Facilitate groups, educational sessions, and focus groups for adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations.
Conduct Community, Wrap-Up, and Expressive Therapy groups and manage the milieu.
Assist with activities of daily living under the direction of the Charge RN.
Serve on BHS and unit work groups when requested.
Communicate incidents involving patients or staff that may compromise unit safety to the Manager and Charge Nurse.
Conduct telephone screenings (inquiry calls) and determine appropriate disposition based on the phone contact.