Mental Health Associate

About the Position

Lane County Behavioral Health is looking for a dynamic Qualified Mental Health Associate to join our team. 

Purpose of the Role

• Support individuals in achieving the highest possible level of independent functioning.
• Assist in diverting individuals from admission to the Oregon State Hospital (OSH).
• Support safe, timely, and appropriate discharges from OSH into the community.
• Coordinate services with community providers and programs to ensure continuity of care.

Primary Responsibilities

• Work as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Provide case management services.
• Deliver skills training to clients.
• Initiate and maintain contact with clients in both clinic and community settings.
• Conduct client screenings and follow-up callbacks.
• Assess clients' case management needs.
• Coordinate care with community partners, including:
  • Hospitals
  • Developmental Disabilities (DD) Services
  • Medical clinics
  • Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs)
• Receive and process referrals from community partners.

Administrative & Collaborative Duties

• Support CHOICE staff with administrative tasks.
• Attend team meetings and participate on committees.
• Collaborate with community providers and partners.
• Work with Trillium Community Health Plan as appropriate to assigned responsibilities.

Additional Requirements

• May be required to provide transportation for clients to appointments and activities.
• May be required to conduct home visits.
• Must possess a valid Oregon driver's license.

For this recruitment we are looking for individuals with a passion to serve adults with mental health needs in our community. This position does require a current QMHA Certification through MHACBO.

About the Division

Lane County Behavioral Health provides services to more than 1,600 individuals with behavioral health conditions. We work with community partners to provide a continuum of care from prevention through treatment and aftercare in an environment that promotes a culture of resilience and recovery.

*Lane County employees may be eligible for student loan repayment: See links below.

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness
• National Health Service Corps

Schedule: Monday thru Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

*This is an AFSCME represented position*

Training: 

• Bachelor's degree in a behavioral science field from an accredited university with major course work in a mental health field, psychology, sociology or a related field.

Or:

Experience: 

• At least one year of work experience working directly with mentally or emotionally disturbed clients, and a combination of education, training and/or work experience in a behavioral sciences field that totals two additional years, plus the required competencies.

Or:

• A combination of at least three year's relevant work, education, training or experience, AND have the competencies necessary to a) communicate effectively, b) understand mental health assessment treatment and service terminology and to apply the concepts, and c) provide psychosocial skills development and to implement interventions prescribed on a treatment plan within their scope of practice, is qualifying.

Special Requirements:

• QMHA Certification through MHACBO
• NPI
• Transcripts
• Diploma
• CV or Resume

DRIVER’S LICENSE

Must be in possession of a valid driver's license at time of application, and a valid Oregon Driver's license by time of appointment.

Notes:

• This position is subject to a full criminal offender information record check. 

• Offers of employment are contingent upon consenting to, and successfully passing, a drug screening test.

• Please note that as part of the screening process Lane County will verify license and certification status.

Studies have shown that women and BIPOC individuals are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they are able to perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. The county will consider any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

Mental Health Associate

Selection Process

Equal Employment Opportunity

Lane County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace.  All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.

Strategic Plan

In alignment with Lane County's Strategic Plan, incumbent(s) will be expected to demonstrate the following core behaviors: Passion to Serve, Driven to Connect, and Focused on Solutions.

The 2025 - 2027 Strategic Plan focuses on the areas that Lane County will pursue as a way to deliver on our vision for the residents of Lane County. To meet these challenges, we know that the basis of our efforts lies in leveraging our people and partnerships to achieve our Strategic Priorities. We also recognize that the quality and commitment of our staff is essential to a shared future where Lane County is the best place in which to live, work, and play.

Veteran Preference Information

Trauma Informed Care Statement

Lane County Health & Human Services is committed to providing Trauma Informed Care.  As an organization, we recognize that many of the people we serve have experienced trauma, either currently, recently or in their past.  Our agency is dedicated to incorporating an understanding of trauma, both with our clients and with each other.  Our employees receive ongoing training to develop or deepen their understanding of trauma and its impacts.