MH Nurse-Various Levels

Recruitments for County positions are typically conducted to establish eligibility lists to fill countywide vacancies that occur during the active status of those lists (approximately 3 -12 months).  Any person on a promotional eligibility list will be considered first by the hiring department(s) before persons on an open eligibility list.   

The County of Lake only accepts applications for permanent positions when actively recruiting.  Only online applications are accepted.  It is the responsibility of each applicant to review the full job description and requirements.

The County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer.  Veteran's Preference.

To apply for County examinations - All applications for County examinations must be submitted through the County's online application system.  A completed Supplemental Questionnaire must be submitted with each online application.  All permanent County recruitments will be posted at www.co.lake.ca.us with a link to the online application. The County of Lake reserves the right to limit the number of applications that will be accepted for any open recruitment, and any such limit will be included on the job posting.  When a limit is posted, the recruitment is subject to close at any time prior to the final filing date.  Completed online application packets must be submitted by the close of business on the date that the recruitment closes.  All relevant experience must be included on the application to be considered – resumes and other attached documents will not be used to qualify an applicant.  Relevant experience and/or education may be substituted at a ratio of 2 to 1 for the purpose of meeting minimum qualifications and applicants should contact the Human Resources department for details.  Important Notice - The provisions listed on job postings, job descriptions, or other recruitment materials do not constitute an expressed or implied contract.  Benefits may vary between bargaining units.  Any provisions contained within job postings, job descriptions or other recruitment material may be modified or revoked without notice. All County of Lake applicants who are given a conditional employment offer must comply with the County's pre-employment medical review program before they may be appointed to the County position.

LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSE I – MENTAL HEALTH

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Completion of sufficient education and experience to meet State of California certification requirements

Special Requirement:

Possession of a valid license as a Licensed Vocational Nurse in California.                     

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License

LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSE II – MENTAL HEALTH
Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

One (1) year of previous work experience working in mental health counseling, psychotherapy, and/or related medical or social services field in a public or certified private welfare or health agency at a level equivalent to a Licensed Vocational Nurse I – Mental Health with the County of Lake.

Special Requirement:
Possession of a valid license as a Licensed Vocational Nurse in California.                     

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.

LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSE, SENIOR – MENTAL HEALTH

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Five (5) years of previous work experience working in mental health counseling, psychotherapy, and/or related medical or social services field in a public or certified private welfare or health agency at a level equivalent to a Licensed Vocational Nurse I/II – Mental Health with the County of Lake.

Special Requirement:

Possession of a valid license as a Licensed Vocational Nurse in California.                     

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.
 

REGISTERED NURSE I – MENTAL HEALTH
Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Completion of sufficient education and experience to meet State of California certification requirements.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: 

Possession of a valid license as a Registered Nurse in California

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.

REGISTERED NURSE II – MENTAL HEALTH

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Two (2) years of previous work experience working in mental health counseling, psychotherapy, and/or related medical or social services field in a public or certified private welfare or health agency at a level equivalent to a Registered Nurse I with the County of Lake.

OR

Education equivalent to a four (4) year degree in nursing, psychology, or a directly related field.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: 

Possession of a valid license as a Registered Nurse in California

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.

PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN I

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Completion of sufficient education and experience to meet State of California certification requirements.

Special Requirement:

Possession of a valid license as a Psychiatric Technician in California.                           

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License

PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN II

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

One (1) year of previous work experience working in mental health counseling, psychotherapy, and/or related medical or social services field in a public or certified private welfare or health agency at a level equivalent to a Psychiatric Technician I with the County of Lake.

Special Requirement:

Possession of a valid license as a Psychiatric Technician in California.                           

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License

PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN, SENIOR

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Five (5) years of previous work experience working in mental health counseling, psychotherapy, and/or related medical or social services field in a public or certified private welfare or health agency at a level equivalent to a Psychiatric Technician I/II with the County of Lake.

Special Requirement:

Possession of a valid license as a Psychiatric Technician in California.                           

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.

LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSE I – MENTAL HEALTH

DEFINITION

Under close clinical and general supervision, to learn and provide a full range of rehabilitative mental health services and targeted case management services to clients of the Behavioral Health Department; to learn to serve in "crisis intervention" roles; to learn and provide a variety of services in the "rehabilitative" and "targeted case management" models as defined  in regulation that may include services to individuals, groups and families but does not include the ability to independently diagnose or provide psychotherapeutic treatment; to learn to distribute prescribed medications to clients; to learn and provide medications support to clients, as needed;  to assist with education and training for other staff, community agencies, and the public; and to do related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the entry and first working Licensed Vocational Nurse – Mental Health level in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series.  This classification is distinguished from the Licensed Vocational Nurse II – Mental Health in that Licensed Vocational Nurse I – Mental Health incumbents work in a training and learning capacity under closer supervision.  The Licensed Vocational Nurse I – Mental Health is distinguished from the Psychiatric Technician I in that the two positions require different licenses.  The Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series is distinguished from the Nurse – Various Levels class series in that incumbents in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series primarily work with patients experiencing behavioral health issues while incumbents in the Nurse – Various Levels class series are perform more general public health duties and functions.  When work knowledge has been developed, sound work demonstrated, and requirements have been met, an incumbent may reasonably expect promotion to the Licensed Vocational Nurse II – Mental Health level. Incumbents are subject to "call back" to respond to urgent situations outside of scheduled work hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.  Incumbents are subject to be scheduled for "standby" duty after regular work hours and are obligated to respond to urgent situations while on standby duty.

REPORTS TO

Supervising Mental Health Nurse; Nurse Practitioner/Physician's Assistant; Staff Psychiatrist; Deputy Director of Behavioral Health; Director of Behavioral Health.

CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED

This is not a supervisory classification.

EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES (The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.)

{Many of the assignments described below are performed in a training and learning capacity with an incumbent expected to continually develop the knowledge and ability to work on an increasingly independent basis.}

Conducts telephone or in person interviews with individuals, families, and groups in clinic, home, and community settings to develop client centered service plans; interviews persons requesting outpatient mental health services; learns to prioritize service requests according to standard triage criteria; learns to provide initial assessment, including provisional diagnoses and treatment plan, for assigned Behavioral Health clients; works with individuals, families, and groups to develop client centered service plans; assists clients with understanding their problems and developing plans to resolve them; provides individual, and group therapy for children and/or adults; provides medications support services; distributes prescribed medication to clients; advises clients on available community resources and serves as a liaison with organizations and service agencies; monitors daily progress of persons being treated in psychiatric hospitals to verify receipt of appropriate treatment; develops recommendations for  discharge and follow-up treatment planning for clients and their families including making appropriate referrals and other arrangements for client treatment; works with clients' families to secure their cooperation in treatment programs; evaluates data and consults with other agencies as necessary to ensure that treatment services are available and adequate; provides background information as needed to physicians involved in client treatment; provides outreach services to clients unable to travel to mental health facilities; may provide transportation if necessary; evaluates persons presented as psychiatric emergencies at Department clinics, hospital emergency rooms, law enforcement incidents, jails, and other appropriate community locations; may authorize detention of clients for further evaluation and treatment as provided by State Code 5150; contacts staff of designated 5150 facilities to obtain admission authorization per Code requirements; participates in coordination of services with the Office of County Counsel and the Public Guardian, related to LPS conservatorship administration; prepares and maintains clinical and administrative records regarding services provided; serves as a liaison with community organizations regarding continuing  care services, providing information regarding policies and procedures utilized in the treatment of adults and children; may develop, conduct, and participate in training programs including the teaching of diagnosis and treatment methods for other Department and community agency staffs; serves as a consultant for other behavioral health personnel; cooperates with professionals from other disciplines in the development of team and collaborative diagnoses and treatment programs; may provide some   direction and training for paraprofessional staff.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; lift and move objects weighing up to 25 lbs.; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in an office, clinic, home, or community environment; work is performed with people who may exhibit symptomatic behavior; continuous contact with other staff and the public.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

Basic knowledge of principles, techniques and trends in counseling, psychotherapy, and various treatment modalities.

The concepts of "recovery" and "resiliency" and ability to translate these concepts into practice.

Basic knowledge of biological, behavioral and environmental aspects of emotional disturbances, mental disabilities, retardation, and substance abuse and methods used for problem analysis and resolution.

Basic knowledge of methods, practices and procedures of mental health programs, including but not limited to, the areas of counseling, crisis intervention, psychotherapy, case management practices and use of psychotropic medication.

The scope and activities of available private and public community resources.    

Basic knowledge of legislative and administrative rules and regulations pertaining to Lanterman-Petris-Short and Short-Doyle services.

Emerging "best practice" models.

Methods, practices, and procedures required for proper dispensation of medication to clients.          

Ability to:

Learn to perform a variety of supportive/rehabilitative services, which may include assisting with psychiatric social work, psychotherapy, and other services for Behavioral Health Department clients.

Assist with medication management.

Develop and maintain cooperative, constructive relationships with families of clients, members of other professional disciplines, partner agencies, and other staff.

Work with partner agencies, family members and clients in developing innovative strategies to meet client needs.

Develop clear and comprehensive case records and documentation.

Learn to prepare care plans and a variety of reports.

Organize and manage a caseload.

Learn and understand the rehabilitation specialist role and deal with clients in a variety of circumstances and settings accordance with professional standards and ethics.

Learn to conceptualize and prioritize the problems of individuals with mental illness and their families, determining their needs for services and support.

Learn to recognize potential crises and deliver crisis intervention services.

Handle stress and unstable client behavior, concerns of family members and partner agencies.

Effectively represent the Behavioral Health Department in contacts with clients, the public, community organizations, other County staff, and other government agencies.

Regularly work well under pressure, meeting multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines.

Constantly demonstrate cooperative behavior with colleagues, supervisors, and customers/clients.

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Completion of sufficient education and experience to meet State of California certification requirements.

Special Requirement:

Possession of a valid license as a Licensed Vocational Nurse in California.                     

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.

LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSE II – MENTAL HEALTH

DEFINITION

Under clinical and general supervision, to provide a full range of rehabilitative mental health services and targeted case management services to clients of the Behavioral Health Department; to serve in "crisis intervention" roles; to provide a variety of services in the "rehabilitative" and "targeted case management" models as defined  in regulation that may include services to individuals, groups and families but does not include the ability to independently diagnose or provide psychotherapeutic treatment; to distribute prescribed medications to clients; to provide medications support to clients, as needed;  to assist with education and training for other staff, community agencies, and the public; and to do related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the journey-level Licensed Vocational Nurse – Mental Health level in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series.  This classification is distinguished from the Licensed Vocational Nurse I – Mental Health in that Licensed Vocational Nurse II – Mental Health incumbents perform a broader range of work on a more independent basis.  The Licensed Vocational Nurse II – Mental Health is distinguished from the Psychiatric Technician II in that the two positions require different licenses.  The Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series is distinguished from the Nurse – Various Levels class series in that incumbents in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series primarily work with patients experiencing behavioral health issues while incumbents in the Nurse – Various Levels class series are perform more general public health duties and functions.  When work knowledge has been developed, sound work demonstrated, and requirements have been met, an incumbent may reasonably expect promotion to the Licensed Vocational Nurse, Senior – Mental Health level. Incumbents are subject to "call back" to respond to urgent situations outside of scheduled work hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.  Incumbents are subject to be scheduled for "standby" duty after regular work hours and are obligated to respond to urgent situations while on standby duty.

REPORTS TO

Supervising Mental Health Nurse; Nurse Practitioner/Physician's Assistant; Staff Psychiatrist; Deputy Director of Behavioral Health; Director of Behavioral Health.

CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED

This is not a supervisory classification.

EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES (The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.)

Conducts telephone or in person interviews with individuals, families, and groups in clinic, home, and community settings to develop client centered service plans; interviews persons requesting outpatient mental health services; prioritizes service requests according to standard triage criteria; provides initial assessment, including provisional diagnoses and treatment plan, for assigned Behavioral Health clients; works with individuals, families, and groups to develop client centered service plans; assists clients with understanding their problems and developing plans to resolve them; provides individual, and group therapy for children and/or adults; provides medications support services; distributes prescribed medication to clients; advises clients on available community resources and serves as a liaison with organizations and service agencies; monitors daily progress of persons being treated in psychiatric hospitals to verify receipt of appropriate treatment; develops recommendations for  discharge and follow-up treatment planning for clients and their families including making appropriate referrals and other arrangements for client treatment; works with clients' families to secure their cooperation in treatment programs; evaluates data and consults with other agencies as necessary to ensure that treatment services are available and adequate; provides background information as needed to physicians involved in client treatment; provides outreach services to clients unable to travel to mental health facilities; may provide transportation if necessary; evaluates persons presented as psychiatric emergencies at Department clinics, hospital emergency rooms, law enforcement incidents, jails, and other appropriate community locations; may authorize detention of clients for further evaluation and treatment as provided by State Code 5150; contacts staff of designated 5150 facilities to obtain admission authorization per Code requirements; participates in coordination of services with the Office of County Counsel and the Public Guardian, related to LPS conservatorship administration; prepares and maintains clinical and administrative records regarding services provided; serves as a liaison with community organizations regarding continuing  care services, providing information regarding policies and procedures utilized in the treatment of adults and children; may develop, conduct, and participate in training programs including the teaching of diagnosis and treatment methods for other Department and community agency staffs; serves as a consultant for other behavioral health personnel; cooperates with professionals from other disciplines in the development of team and collaborative diagnoses and treatment programs; may provide some   direction and training for paraprofessional staff.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; lift and move objects weighing up to 25 lbs.; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in an office, clinic, home, or community environment; work is performed with people who may exhibit symptomatic behavior; continuous contact with other staff and the public.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

Principles, techniques and trends in counseling, psychotherapy, and various treatment modalities.

The concepts of "recovery" and "resiliency" and ability to translate these concepts into practice.

Biological, behavioral and environmental aspects of emotional disturbances, mental disabilities, retardation, and substance abuse and methods used for problem analysis and resolution.

Methods, practices and procedures of mental health programs, including but not limited to, the areas of counseling, crisis intervention, psychotherapy, case management practices and use of psychotropic medication.

The scope and activities of available private and public community resources.    

Legislative and administrative rules and regulations pertaining to Lanterman-Petris-Short and Short-Doyle services.

Emerging "best practice" models.

Methods, practices, and procedures required for proper dispensation of medication to clients.          

Ability to:

Perform a variety of supportive/rehabilitative services, which may include assisting with psychiatric social work, psychotherapy, and other services for Behavioral Health Department clients.

Assist with medication management.

Develop and maintain cooperative, constructive relationships with families of clients, members of other professional disciplines, partner agencies, and other staff.

Work with partner agencies, family members and clients in developing innovative strategies to meet client needs.

Develop clear and comprehensive case records and documentation.

Prepare care plans and a variety of reports.

Organize and manage a caseload.

Understand the rehabilitation specialist role and deal with clients in a variety of circumstances and settings accordance with professional standards and ethics.

Conceptualize and prioritize the problems of individuals with mental illness and their families, determining their needs for services and support.

Recognize potential crises and deliver crisis intervention services.

Handle stress and unstable client behavior, concerns of family members and partner agencies.

Effectively represent the Behavioral Health Department in contacts with clients, the public, community organizations, other County staff, and other government agencies.

Regularly work well under pressure, meeting multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines.

Constantly demonstrate cooperative behavior with colleagues, supervisors, and customers/clients.

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

One (1) year of previous work experience working in mental health counseling, psychotherapy, and/or related medical or social services field in a public or certified private welfare or health agency at a level equivalent to a Licensed Vocational Nurse I – Mental Health with the County of Lake.

Special Requirement:

Possession of a valid license as a Licensed Vocational Nurse in California.                     

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.

LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSE, SENIOR – MENTAL HEALTH

DEFINITION

Under clinical and general supervision, to provide a full range of rehabilitative mental health services and targeted case management services to clients of the Behavioral Health Department; to serve in "crisis intervention" roles; to provide a variety of services in the "rehabilitative" and "targeted case management" models as defined  in regulation that may include services to individuals, groups and families but does not include the ability to independently diagnose or provide psychotherapeutic treatment; to distribute prescribed medications to clients; to provide medications support to clients, as needed;  to assist with education and training for other staff, community agencies, and the public; and to do related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the advanced journey-level Licensed Vocational Nurse – Mental Health level in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series.  This classification is distinguished from the Licensed Vocational Nurse II – Mental Health in that Licensed Vocational Nurse, Senior – Mental Health incumbents perform a broader range of the most complex work on a more independent basis.  The Licensed Vocational Nurse, Senior – Mental Health is distinguished from the Psychiatric Technician, Senior in that the two positions require different licenses.  The Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series is distinguished from the Nurse – Various Levels class series in that incumbents in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series primarily work with patients experiencing behavioral health issues while incumbents in the Nurse – Various Levels class series are perform more general public health duties and functions.  When work knowledge has been developed, sound work demonstrated, and requirements have been met, an incumbent may reasonably expect promotion to the Licensed Vocational Nurse, Senior – Mental Health level. Incumbents are subject to "call back" to respond to urgent situations outside of scheduled work hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.  Incumbents are subject to be scheduled for "standby" duty after regular work hours and are obligated to respond to urgent situations while on standby duty.

REPORTS TO

Supervising Mental Health Nurse; Nurse Practitioner/Physician's Assistant; Staff Psychiatrist; Deputy Director of Behavioral Health; Director of Behavioral Health.

CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED

This is not a supervisory classification.

EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES (The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.)

Conducts telephone or in person interviews with individuals, families, and groups in clinic, home, and community settings to develop client centered service plans; interviews persons requesting outpatient mental health services; prioritizes service requests according to standard triage criteria; provides initial assessment, including provisional diagnoses and treatment plan, for assigned Behavioral Health clients; works with individuals, families, and groups to develop client centered service plans; assists clients with understanding their problems and developing plans to resolve them; provides individual, and group therapy for children and/or adults; provides medications support services; distributes prescribed medication to clients; advises clients on available community resources and serves as a liaison with organizations and service agencies; monitors daily progress of persons being treated in psychiatric hospitals to verify receipt of appropriate treatment; develops recommendations for  discharge and follow-up treatment planning for clients and their families including making appropriate referrals and other arrangements for client treatment; works with clients' families to secure their cooperation in treatment programs; evaluates data and consults with other agencies as necessary to ensure that treatment services are available and adequate; provides background information as needed to physicians involved in client treatment; provides outreach services to clients unable to travel to mental health facilities; may provide transportation if necessary; evaluates persons presented as psychiatric emergencies at Department clinics, hospital emergency rooms, law enforcement incidents, jails, and other appropriate community locations; may authorize detention of clients for further evaluation and treatment as provided by State Code 5150; contacts staff of designated 5150 facilities to obtain admission authorization per Code requirements; participates in coordination of services with the Office of County Counsel and the Public Guardian, related to LPS conservatorship administration; prepares and maintains clinical and administrative records regarding services provided; serves as a liaison with community organizations regarding continuing  care services, providing information regarding policies and procedures utilized in the treatment of adults and children; may develop, conduct, and participate in training programs including the teaching of diagnosis and treatment methods for other Department and community agency staffs; serves as a consultant for other behavioral health personnel; cooperates with professionals from other disciplines in the development of team and collaborative diagnoses and treatment programs; may provide some   direction and training for paraprofessional staff.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; lift and move objects weighing up to 25 lbs.; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in an office, clinic, home, or community environment; work is performed with people who may exhibit symptomatic behavior; continuous contact with other staff and the public.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

Principles, techniques and trends in counseling, psychotherapy, and various treatment modalities.

The concepts of "recovery" and "resiliency" and ability to translate these concepts into practice.

Biological, behavioral and environmental aspects of emotional disturbances, mental disabilities, retardation, and substance abuse and methods used for problem analysis and resolution.

Methods, practices and procedures of mental health programs, including but not limited to, the areas of counseling, crisis intervention, psychotherapy, case management practices and use of psychotropic medication.

The scope and activities of available private and public community resources.    

Legislative and administrative rules and regulations pertaining to Lanterman-Petris-Short and Short-Doyle services.

Emerging "best practice" models.

Methods, practices, and procedures required for proper dispensation of medication to clients.          

Ability to:

Perform a variety of supportive/rehabilitative services, which may include assisting with psychiatric social work, psychotherapy, and other services for Behavioral Health Department clients.

Assist with medication management.

Develop and maintain cooperative, constructive relationships with families of clients, members of other professional disciplines, partner agencies, and other staff.

Work with partner agencies, family members and clients in developing innovative strategies to meet client needs.

Develop clear and comprehensive case records and documentation.

Prepare care plans and a variety of reports.

Organize and manage a caseload.

Understand the rehabilitation specialist role and deal with clients in a variety of circumstances and settings accordance with professional standards and ethics.

Conceptualize and prioritize the problems of individuals with mental illness and their families, determining their needs for services and support.

Recognize potential crises and deliver crisis intervention services.

Handle stress and unstable client behavior, concerns of family members and partner agencies.

Effectively represent the Behavioral Health Department in contacts with clients, the public, community organizations, other County staff, and other government agencies.

Regularly work well under pressure, meeting multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines.

Constantly demonstrate cooperative behavior with colleagues, supervisors, and customers/clients.

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Five (5) years of previous work experience working in mental health counseling, psychotherapy, and/or related medical or social services field in a public or certified private welfare or health agency at a level equivalent to a Licensed Vocational Nurse I/II – Mental Health with the County of Lake.

Special Requirement:

Possession of a valid license as a Licensed Vocational Nurse in California.                     

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.

REGISTERED NURSE I – MENTAL HEALTH

DEFINITION

Under close clinical and general supervision, to provide a variety of mental health services for individuals, families and groups including assessments, diagnoses, prognoses, counseling and psychotherapeutic treatment for Behavioral Health Department clients; to distribute prescribed medications to clients; to provide medications support to clients, as needed; to assist with education and training for other staff, community agencies, and the public; to serve in "crisis intervention" situations and respond to emergencies and hospitalizations; and to do related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the entry and first working Registered Nurse – Mental Health level in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician class series.  Incumbents are Registered Nurses and work under close supervision in a community mental health setting.  This classification is distinguished from Registered Nurse II – Mental Health in that Registered Nurse I – Mental Health incumbents perform a narrower range of duties under closer supervision.,.  The Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series is distinguished from the Nurse – Various Levels class series in that incumbents in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series primarily work with patients experiencing behavioral health issues while incumbents in the Nurse – Various Levels class series are perform more general public health duties and functions.  When work knowledge has been developed, sound work demonstrated, and requirements have been met, an incumbent may reasonably expect promotion to the Registered Nurse II – Mental Health level.  Incumbents are subject to "call back" to respond to urgent situations outside of scheduled work hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.  Incumbents are subject to be scheduled for "standby" duty after regular work hours and are obligated to respond to urgent situations while on standby duty.

REPORTS TO

Supervising Mental Health Nurse; Nurse Practitioner/Physician's Assistant; Staff Psychiatrist; Deputy Director of Behavioral Health; Director of Behavioral Health.

CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED

May provide lead direction, work coordination, and training, as assigned.

EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES (The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.)

{Many of the assignments described below are performed in a training and learning capacity with an incumbent expected to continually develop the knowledge and ability to work on an increasingly independent basis.}

Conducts telephone or in person interviews with individuals, families, and groups in clinic, home, and community settings to develop client centered service plans; interviews persons requesting outpatient mental health services; learns to prioritize service requests according to standard triage criteria; learns to provide initial assessments, including diagnoses and treatment plan, for assigned Behavioral Health clients; works with individuals, families, and groups to develop client centered service plans; assists clients with understanding their problems and developing plans to resolve them; provides individual, and group therapy for children and/or adults; provides medications support services; distributes prescribed medication to clients; advises clients on available community resources and serves as a liaison with organizations and service agencies; monitors daily progress of persons being treated in psychiatric hospitals to verify receipt of appropriate treatment; develops recommendations for  discharge and follow-up treatment planning for clients and their families, including making appropriate referrals and arrangements for client treatment; works with clients'  families to secure their cooperation in treatment programs; evaluates data and consults with other agencies, as necessary, to ensure that treatment services are available and adequate; provides requisite background information to physicians involved in client treatment; provides outreach services to clients unable to travel to mental health facilities; may provide transportation if necessary; evaluates persons presented as psychiatric emergencies at department clinics, hospital emergency rooms, law enforcement incidents, jails and other appropriate community locations; may authorize detention of clients for further evaluation and treatment as provided by State Code 5150; contacts staff of designated 5150 facilities to obtain admission authorization per Code requirements; participates in coordination of services with the Office of County Counsel and the Public Guardian, related to LPS conservatorship administration; prepares and maintains clinical and administrative records regarding services provided;  serves as a liaison with community organizations regarding continuing care services, providing information regarding policies and procedures utilized in the treatment of adults and children; may develop, conduct, and participate in training programs including the teaching of diagnosis and treatment methods for other Department and community agency staffs; serves as a consultant for department personnel; cooperates with professionals from other disciplines in the development of team and collaborative diagnoses and treatment programs; may provide some direction and training for paraprofessional staff.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; lift and move objects weighing up to 25 lbs.; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in an office, clinic, hospital, home, or community environment; work is performed with people who may exhibit symptomatic behavior; continuous contact with other staff and the public.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

Basic knowledge of principles, techniques and trends in counseling, psychotherapy, and various treatment modalities.

The concepts of "recovery" and "resiliency" and the ability to translate these concepts into practice.

Basic knowledge of biological, behavioral and environmental aspects of emotional disturbances, mental disabilities, developmental disabilities, and substance abuse and methods used for problem analysis and resolution.

Basic knowledge of methods, practices and procedures of mental health programs, including but not limited to, the areas of counseling, crisis intervention, psychotherapy, case management practices and use of psychotropic medication.

The scope and activities of available public and private community resources.

Methods used in identification of clients' individual, social, and behavioral problems and their analysis and resolution in existing social contexts.

Basic knowledge of legislative and administrative rules and regulations pertaining to Lanterman-Petris-Short and Short-Doyle services.

Emerging "best practice" models.

Methods, practices, and procedures required for proper dispensation of medication to clients.

Ability to:

Learn to perform psychiatric social work and psychotherapy for Department clients.

Assist with medication management.

Develop and maintain cooperative, constructive relationships with families of clients, members of other professional disciplines, social agencies, and other staff.

Work with partner agencies, family members, and clients in developing innovative strategies to meet client needs.

Develop clear and comprehensive case records and documentation.

Learn to prepare treatment plans, client treatment recommendations, and a variety of reports.

Organize and manage a caseload.

Learn and understand a therapist's role and deal with clients in a variety of circumstances and settings in accordance with professional standards and ethics.

Learn to conceptualize and prioritize the problems of mentally disordered persons, determining their needs, services, and appropriate treatment methods.

Integrate a variety of clinical approaches into a unified treatment plan.

Learn to recognize potential crises and deliver crisis intervention services.

Handle stress and unstable client behavior.

Effectively represent the Behavioral Health Department in contacts with clients, the public, community organizations, other County staff, and other government agencies.

Regularly work well under pressure, meeting multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines.

Constantly demonstrate cooperative behavior with colleagues, supervisors, and customers/clients.

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Completion of sufficient education and experience to meet State of California certification requirements.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: 

Possession of a valid license as a Registered Nurse in California

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.

REGISTERED NURSE II – MENTAL HEALTH

DEFINITION

Under clinical and general supervision, to provide a variety of mental health services for individuals, families and groups including assessments, diagnoses, prognoses, counseling and psychotherapeutic treatment for Behavioral Health Department clients; to distribute prescribed medications to clients; to provide medications support to clients, as needed; to assist with education and training for other staff, community agencies, and the public; to serve in "crisis intervention" situations and respond to emergencies and hospitalizations; and to do related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the journey Registered Nurse – Mental Health level in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician class series.  Incumbents are Registered Nurses and have sufficient clinical experience to enable them to work with a high degree of independence in a community mental health setting.  This classification is distinguished from Registered Nurse I – Mental Health in that Registered Nurse II – Mental Health incumbents perform a broader range of duties with a high degree of independence.,.  The Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series is distinguished from the Nurse – Various Levels class series in that incumbents in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series primarily work with patients experiencing behavioral health issues while incumbents in the Nurse – Various Levels class series are perform more general public health duties and functions.  .  Incumbents are subject to "call back" to respond to urgent situations outside of scheduled work hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.  Incumbents are subject to be scheduled for "standby" duty after regular work hours and are obligated to respond to urgent situations while on standby duty.

REPORTS TO

Supervising Mental Health Nurse; Nurse Practitioner/Physician's Assistant; Staff Psychiatrist; Deputy Director of Behavioral Health; Director of Behavioral Health.

CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED

May provide lead direction, work coordination, and training, as assigned.

EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES (The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.)

Conducts telephone or in person interviews with individuals, families, and groups in clinic, home, and community settings to develop client centered service plans; interviews persons requesting outpatient mental health services; prioritizes service requests according to standard triage criteria; provides initial assessments, including diagnoses and treatment plan, for assigned Behavioral Health clients; works with individuals, families, and groups to develop client centered service plans; assists clients with understanding their problems and developing plans to resolve them; provides individual, and group therapy for children and/or adults; provides medications support services; distributes prescribed medication to clients; advises clients on available community resources and serves as a liaison with organizations and service agencies; monitors daily progress of persons being treated in psychiatric hospitals to verify receipt of appropriate treatment; develops recommendations for  discharge and follow-up treatment planning for clients and their families, including making appropriate referrals and arrangements for client treatment; works with clients'  families to secure their cooperation in treatment programs; evaluates data and consults with other agencies, as necessary, to ensure that treatment services are available and adequate; provides requisite background information to physicians involved in client treatment; provides outreach services to clients unable to travel to mental health facilities; may provide transportation if necessary; evaluates persons presented as psychiatric emergencies at department clinics, hospital emergency rooms, law enforcement incidents, jails and other appropriate community locations; may authorize detention of clients for further evaluation and treatment as provided by State Code 5150; contacts staff of designated 5150 facilities to obtain admission authorization per Code requirements; participates in coordination of services with the Office of County Counsel and the Public Guardian, related to LPS conservatorship administration; prepares and maintains clinical and administrative records regarding services provided;  serves as a liaison with community organizations regarding continuing care services, providing information regarding policies and procedures utilized in the treatment of adults and children; may develop, conduct, and participate in training programs including the teaching of diagnosis and treatment methods for other Department and community agency staffs; serves as a consultant for department personnel; cooperates with professionals from other disciplines in the development of team and collaborative diagnoses and treatment programs; may provide some direction and training for paraprofessional staff.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; lift and move objects weighing up to 25 lbs.; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in an office, clinic, hospital, home, or community environment; work is performed with people who may exhibit symptomatic behavior; continuous contact with other staff and the public.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

Principles, techniques and trends in counseling, psychotherapy, and various treatment modalities.

The concepts of "recovery" and "resiliency" and the ability to translate these concepts into practice.

Biological, behavioral and environmental aspects of emotional disturbances, mental disabilities, developmental disabilities, and substance abuse and methods used for problem analysis and resolution.

Methods, practices and procedures of mental health programs, including but not limited to, the areas of counseling, crisis intervention, psychotherapy, case management practices and use of psychotropic medication.

The scope and activities of available public and private community resources.

Methods used in identification of clients' individual, social, and behavioral problems and their analysis and resolution in existing social contexts.

Legislative and administrative rules and regulations pertaining to Lanterman-Petris-Short and Short-Doyle services.

Emerging "best practice" models

Methods, practices, and procedures required for proper dispensation of medication to clients.

Ability to:

Perform psychiatric social work and psychotherapy for Department clients.

Assist with medication management.

Develop and maintain cooperative, constructive relationships with families of clients, members of other professional disciplines, social agencies, and other staff.

Work with partner agencies, family members, and clients in developing innovative strategies to meet client needs.

Develop clear and comprehensive case records and documentation.

Prepare treatment plans, client treatment recommendations, and a variety of reports.

Organize and manage a caseload.

Understand a therapist's role and deal with clients in a variety of circumstances and settings in accordance with professional standards and ethics.

Conceptualize and prioritize the problems of mentally disordered persons, determining their needs, services, and appropriate treatment methods.

Integrate a variety of clinical approaches into a unified treatment plan.

Recognize potential crises and deliver crisis intervention services.

Handle stress and unstable client behavior.

Effectively represent the Behavioral Health Department in contacts with clients, the public, community organizations, other County staff, and other government agencies.

Regularly work well under pressure, meeting multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines.

Constantly demonstrate cooperative behavior with colleagues, supervisors, and customers/clients.

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Two (2) years of previous work experience working in mental health counseling, psychotherapy, and/or related medical or social services field in a public or certified private welfare or health agency at a level equivalent to a Registered Nurse I with the County of Lake.

OR

Education equivalent to a four (4) year degree in nursing, psychology, or a directly related field.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: 

Possession of a valid license as a Registered Nurse in California

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.

PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN I

DEFINITION

Under close clinical and general supervision, to learn and provide a full range of rehabilitative mental health services and targeted case management services to clients of the Behavioral Health Department; to learn to serve in "crisis intervention" roles; to learn and provide a variety of services in the "rehabilitative" and "targeted case management" models as defined  in regulation that may include services to individuals, groups and families but does not include the ability to independently diagnose or provide psychotherapeutic treatment; to learn to distribute prescribed medications to clients; to learn and provide medications support to clients, as needed;  to assist with education and training for other staff, community agencies, and the public; and to do related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the entry and first working Psychiatric Technician level in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series.  This classification is distinguished from the Psychiatric Technician II in that Psychiatric Technician I incumbents work in a training and learning capacity under closer supervision.  The Psychiatric Technician I is distinguished from the Licensed Vocational Nurse I – Mental Health in that the two positions require different licenses.  The Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series is distinguished from the Nurse – Various Levels class series in that incumbents in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series primarily work with patients experiencing behavioral health issues while incumbents in the Nurse – Various Levels class series are perform more general public health duties and functions.  When work knowledge has been developed, sound work demonstrated, and requirements have been met, an incumbent may reasonably expect promotion to the Psychiatric Technician II level. Incumbents are subject to "call back" to respond to urgent situations outside of scheduled work hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.  Incumbents are subject to be scheduled for "standby" duty after regular work hours and are obligated to respond to urgent situations while on standby duty.

REPORTS TO

Supervising Mental Health Nurse; Nurse Practitioner/Physician's Assistant; Staff Psychiatrist; Deputy Director of Behavioral Health; Director of Behavioral Health.

CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED

This is not a supervisory classification.

EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES (The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.)

{Many of the assignments described below are performed in a training and learning capacity with an incumbent expected to continually develop the knowledge and ability to work on an increasingly independent basis.}

Conducts telephone or in person interviews with individuals, families, and groups in clinic, home, and community settings to develop client centered service plans; interviews persons requesting outpatient mental health services; learns to prioritize service requests according to standard triage criteria; learns to provide initial assessment, including provisional diagnoses and treatment plan, for assigned Behavioral Health clients; works with individuals, families, and groups to develop client centered service plans; assists clients with understanding their problems and developing plans to resolve them; provides individual, and group therapy for children and/or adults; provides medications support services; distributes prescribed medication to clients; advises clients on available community resources and serves as a liaison with organizations and service agencies; monitors daily progress of persons being treated in psychiatric hospitals to verify receipt of appropriate treatment; develops recommendations for  discharge and follow-up treatment planning for clients and their families including making appropriate referrals and other arrangements for client treatment; works with clients' families to secure their cooperation in treatment programs; evaluates data and consults with other agencies as necessary to ensure that treatment services are available and adequate; provides background information as needed to physicians involved in client treatment; provides outreach services to clients unable to travel to mental health facilities; may provide transportation if necessary; evaluates persons presented as psychiatric emergencies at Department clinics, hospital emergency rooms, law enforcement incidents, jails, and other appropriate community locations; may authorize detention of clients for further evaluation and treatment as provided by State Code 5150; contacts staff of designated 5150 facilities to obtain admission authorization per Code requirements; participates in coordination of services with the Office of County Counsel and the Public Guardian, related to LPS conservatorship administration; prepares and maintains clinical and administrative records regarding services provided; serves as a liaison with community organizations regarding continuing  care services, providing information regarding policies and procedures utilized in the treatment of adults and children; may develop, conduct, and participate in training programs including the teaching of diagnosis and treatment methods for other Department and community agency staffs; serves as a consultant for other behavioral health personnel; cooperates with professionals from other disciplines in the development of team and collaborative diagnoses and treatment programs; may provide some   direction and training for paraprofessional staff.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; lift and move objects weighing up to 25 lbs.; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in an office, clinic, home, or community environment; work is performed with people who may exhibit symptomatic behavior; continuous contact with other staff and the public.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

Basic knowledge of principles, techniques and trends in counseling, psychotherapy, and various treatment modalities.

The concepts of "recovery" and "resiliency" and ability to translate these concepts into practice.

Basic knowledge of biological, behavioral and environmental aspects of emotional disturbances, mental disabilities, retardation, and substance abuse and methods used for problem analysis and resolution.

Basic knowledge of methods, practices and procedures of mental health programs, including but not limited to, the areas of counseling, crisis intervention, psychotherapy, case management practices and use of psychotropic medication.

The scope and activities of available private and public community resources.    

Basic knowledge of legislative and administrative rules and regulations pertaining to Lanterman-Petris-Short and Short-Doyle services.

Emerging "best practice" models.

Methods, practices, and procedures required for proper dispensation of medication to clients.          

Ability to:

Learn to perform a variety of supportive/rehabilitative services, which may include assisting with psychiatric social work, psychotherapy, and other services for Behavioral Health Department clients.

Assist with medication management.

Develop and maintain cooperative, constructive relationships with families of clients, members of other professional disciplines, partner agencies, and other staff.

Work with partner agencies, family members and clients in developing innovative strategies to meet client needs.

Develop clear and comprehensive case records and documentation.

Learn to prepare care plans and a variety of reports.

Organize and manage a caseload.

Learn and understand the rehabilitation specialist role and deal with clients in a variety of circumstances and settings accordance with professional standards and ethics.

Learn to conceptualize and prioritize the problems of individuals with mental illness and their families, determining their needs for services and support.

Learn to recognize potential crises and deliver crisis intervention services.

Handle stress and unstable client behavior, concerns of family members and partner agencies.

Effectively represent the Behavioral Health Department in contacts with clients, the public, community organizations, other County staff, and other government agencies.

Regularly work well under pressure, meeting multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines.

Constantly demonstrate cooperative behavior with colleagues, supervisors, and customers/clients.

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Completion of sufficient education and experience to meet State of California certification requirements.

Special Requirement:

Possession of a valid license as a Psychiatric Technician in California.                           

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.

PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN II

DEFINITION

Under clinical and general supervision, to provide a full range of rehabilitative mental health services and targeted case management services to clients of the Behavioral Health Department; to serve in "crisis intervention" roles; to provide a variety of services in the "rehabilitative" and "targeted case management" models as defined  in regulation that may include services to individuals, groups and families but does not include the ability to independently diagnose or provide psychotherapeutic treatment; to distribute prescribed medications to clients; to provide medications support to clients, as needed;  to assist with education and training for other staff, community agencies, and the public; and to do related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the journey-level Psychiatric Technician level in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series.  This classification is distinguished from the Psychiatric Technician I in that Psychiatric Technician II incumbents perform a broader range of duties on a more independent basis.  The Psychiatric Technician II is distinguished from the Licensed Vocational Nurse II – Mental Health in that the two positions require different licenses.  The Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series is distinguished from the Nurse – Various Levels class series in that incumbents in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series primarily work with patients experiencing behavioral health issues while incumbents in the Nurse – Various Levels class series are perform more general public health duties and functions.  When work knowledge has been developed, sound work demonstrated, and requirements have been met, an incumbent may reasonably expect promotion to the Psychiatric Technician, Senior level. Incumbents are subject to "call back" to respond to urgent situations outside of scheduled work hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.  Incumbents are subject to be scheduled for "standby" duty after regular work hours and are obligated to respond to urgent situations while on standby duty.

REPORTS TO

Supervising Mental Health Nurse; Nurse Practitioner/Physician's Assistant; Staff Psychiatrist; Deputy Director of Behavioral Health; Director of Behavioral Health.

CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED

This is not a supervisory classification.

EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES (The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.)

Conducts telephone or in person interviews with individuals, families, and groups in clinic, home, and community settings to develop client centered service plans; interviews persons requesting outpatient mental health services; prioritizes service requests according to standard triage criteria; provides initial assessment, including provisional diagnoses and treatment plan, for assigned Behavioral Health clients; works with individuals, families, and groups to develop client centered service plans; assists clients with understanding their problems and developing plans to resolve them; provides individual, and group therapy for children and/or adults; provides medications support services; distributes prescribed medication to clients; advises clients on available community resources and serves as a liaison with organizations and service agencies; monitors daily progress of persons being treated in psychiatric hospitals to verify receipt of appropriate treatment; develops recommendations for  discharge and follow-up treatment planning for clients and their families including making appropriate referrals and other arrangements for client treatment; works with clients' families to secure their cooperation in treatment programs; evaluates data and consults with other agencies as necessary to ensure that treatment services are available and adequate; provides background information as needed to physicians involved in client treatment; provides outreach services to clients unable to travel to mental health facilities; may provide transportation if necessary; evaluates persons presented as psychiatric emergencies at Department clinics, hospital emergency rooms, law enforcement incidents, jails, and other appropriate community locations; may authorize detention of clients for further evaluation and treatment as provided by State Code 5150; contacts staff of designated 5150 facilities to obtain admission authorization per Code requirements; participates in coordination of services with the Office of County Counsel and the Public Guardian, related to LPS conservatorship administration; prepares and maintains clinical and administrative records regarding services provided; serves as a liaison with community organizations regarding continuing  care services, providing information regarding policies and procedures utilized in the treatment of adults and children; may develop, conduct, and participate in training programs including the teaching of diagnosis and treatment methods for other Department and community agency staffs; serves as a consultant for other behavioral health personnel; cooperates with professionals from other disciplines in the development of team and collaborative diagnoses and treatment programs; may provide some direction and training for paraprofessional staff.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; lift and move objects weighing up to 25 lbs.; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in an office, clinic, home, or community environment; work is performed with people who may exhibit symptomatic behavior; continuous contact with other staff and the public.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

Principles, techniques and trends in counseling, psychotherapy, and various treatment modalities.

The concepts of "recovery" and "resiliency" and ability to translate these concepts into practice.

Biological, behavioral and environmental aspects of emotional disturbances, mental disabilities, retardation, and substance abuse and methods used for problem analysis and resolution.

Methods, practices and procedures of mental health programs, including but not limited to, the areas of counseling, crisis intervention, psychotherapy, case management practices and use of psychotropic medication.

The scope and activities of available private and public community resources.    

Legislative and administrative rules and regulations pertaining to Lanterman-Petris-Short and Short-Doyle services.

Emerging "best practice" models.

Methods, practices, and procedures required for proper dispensation of medication to clients.          

Ability to:

Perform a variety of supportive/rehabilitative services, which may include assisting with psychiatric social work, psychotherapy, and other services for Behavioral Health Department clients.

Assist with medication management.

Develop and maintain cooperative, constructive relationships with families of clients, members of other professional disciplines, partner agencies, and other staff.

Work with partner agencies, family members and clients in developing innovative strategies to meet client needs.

Develop clear and comprehensive case records and documentation.

Prepare care plans and a variety of reports.

Organize and manage a caseload.

Understand the rehabilitation specialist role and deal with clients in a variety of circumstances and settings accordance with professional standards and ethics.

Conceptualize and prioritize the problems of individuals with mental illness and their families, determining their needs for services and support.

Recognize potential crises and deliver crisis intervention services.

Handle stress and unstable client behavior, concerns of family members and partner agencies.

Effectively represent the Behavioral Health Department in contacts with clients, the public, community organizations, other County staff, and other government agencies.

Regularly work well under pressure, meeting multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines.

Constantly demonstrate cooperative behavior with colleagues, supervisors, and customers/clients.

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

One (1) year of previous work experience working in mental health counseling, psychotherapy, and/or related medical or social services field in a public or certified private welfare or health agency at a level equivalent to a Psychiatric Technician I with the County of Lake.

Special Requirement:

Possession of a valid license as a Psychiatric Technician in California.                           

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.

PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN, SENIOR

DEFINITION

Under clinical and general supervision, to provide a full range of rehabilitative mental health services and targeted case management services to clients of the Behavioral Health Department; to serve in "crisis intervention" roles; to provide a variety of services in the "rehabilitative" and "targeted case management" models as defined  in regulation that may include services to individuals, groups and families but does not include the ability to independently diagnose or provide psychotherapeutic treatment; to distribute prescribed medications to clients; to provide medications support to clients, as needed;  to assist with education and training for other staff, community agencies, and the public; and to do related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the advanced journey-level Psychiatric Technician level in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series.  This classification is distinguished from the Psychiatric Technician II in that Psychiatric Technician, Senior incumbents perform a broader range of the most complex duties on a more independent basis.  The Psychiatric Technician II is distinguished from the Licensed Vocational Nurse II – Mental Health in that the two positions require different licenses.  The Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series is distinguished from the Nurse – Various Levels class series in that incumbents in the Mental Health Nurse/Psychiatric Technician – Various Levels class series primarily work with patients experiencing behavioral health issues while incumbents in the Nurse – Various Levels class series are perform more general public health duties and functions.  When work knowledge has been developed, sound work demonstrated, and requirements have been met, an incumbent may reasonably expect promotion to the Psychiatric Technician, Senior level. Incumbents are subject to "call back" to respond to urgent situations outside of scheduled work hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.  Incumbents are subject to be scheduled for "standby" duty after regular work hours and are obligated to respond to urgent situations while on standby duty.

REPORTS TO

Supervising Mental Health Nurse; Nurse Practitioner/Physician's Assistant; Staff Psychiatrist; Deputy Director of Behavioral Health; Director of Behavioral Health.

CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED

This is not a supervisory classification.

EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES (The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.)

Conducts telephone or in person interviews with individuals, families, and groups in clinic, home, and community settings to develop client centered service plans; interviews persons requesting outpatient mental health services; prioritizes service requests according to standard triage criteria; provides initial assessment, including provisional diagnoses and treatment plan, for assigned Behavioral Health clients; works with individuals, families, and groups to develop client centered service plans; assists clients with understanding their problems and developing plans to resolve them; provides individual, and group therapy for children and/or adults; provides medications support services; distributes prescribed medication to clients; advises clients on available community resources and serves as a liaison with organizations and service agencies; monitors daily progress of persons being treated in psychiatric hospitals to verify receipt of appropriate treatment; develops recommendations for  discharge and follow-up treatment planning for clients and their families including making appropriate referrals and other arrangements for client treatment; works with clients' families to secure their cooperation in treatment programs; evaluates data and consults with other agencies as necessary to ensure that treatment services are available and adequate; provides background information as needed to physicians involved in client treatment; provides outreach services to clients unable to travel to mental health facilities; may provide transportation if necessary; evaluates persons presented as psychiatric emergencies at Department clinics, hospital emergency rooms, law enforcement incidents, jails, and other appropriate community locations; may authorize detention of clients for further evaluation and treatment as provided by State Code 5150; contacts staff of designated 5150 facilities to obtain admission authorization per Code requirements; participates in coordination of services with the Office of County Counsel and the Public Guardian, related to LPS conservatorship administration; prepares and maintains clinical and administrative records regarding services provided; serves as a liaison with community organizations regarding continuing  care services, providing information regarding policies and procedures utilized in the treatment of adults and children; may develop, conduct, and participate in training programs including the teaching of diagnosis and treatment methods for other Department and community agency staffs; serves as a consultant for other behavioral health personnel; cooperates with professionals from other disciplines in the development of team and collaborative diagnoses and treatment programs; may provide some direction and training for paraprofessional staff.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; lift and move objects weighing up to 25 lbs.; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in an office, clinic, home, or community environment; work is performed with people who may exhibit symptomatic behavior; continuous contact with other staff and the public.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

Principles, techniques and trends in counseling, psychotherapy, and various treatment modalities.

The concepts of "recovery" and "resiliency" and ability to translate these concepts into practice.

Biological, behavioral and environmental aspects of emotional disturbances, mental disabilities, retardation, and substance abuse and methods used for problem analysis and resolution.

Methods, practices and procedures of mental health programs, including but not limited to, the areas of counseling, crisis intervention, psychotherapy, case management practices and use of psychotropic medication.

The scope and activities of available private and public community resources.    

Legislative and administrative rules and regulations pertaining to Lanterman-Petris-Short and Short-Doyle services.

Emerging "best practice" models.

Methods, practices, and procedures required for proper dispensation of medication to clients.          

Ability to:

Perform a variety of supportive/rehabilitative services, which may include assisting with psychiatric social work, psychotherapy, and other services for Behavioral Health Department clients.

Assist with medication management.

Develop and maintain cooperative, constructive relationships with families of clients, members of other professional disciplines, partner agencies, and other staff.

Work with partner agencies, family members and clients in developing innovative strategies to meet client needs.

Develop clear and comprehensive case records and documentation.

Prepare care plans and a variety of reports.

Organize and manage a caseload.

Understand the rehabilitation specialist role and deal with clients in a variety of circumstances and settings accordance with professional standards and ethics.

Conceptualize and prioritize the problems of individuals with mental illness and their families, determining their needs for services and support.

Recognize potential crises and deliver crisis intervention services.

Handle stress and unstable client behavior, concerns of family members and partner agencies.

Effectively represent the Behavioral Health Department in contacts with clients, the public, community organizations, other County staff, and other government agencies.

Regularly work well under pressure, meeting multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines.

Constantly demonstrate cooperative behavior with colleagues, supervisors, and customers/clients.

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Five (5) years of previous work experience working in mental health counseling, psychotherapy, and/or related medical or social services field in a public or certified private welfare or health agency at a level equivalent to a Psychiatric Technician I/II with the County of Lake.

Special Requirement:

Possession of a valid license as a Psychiatric Technician in California.                           

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.

The contents of this class specification shall not be construed to constitute any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee, nor shall it constitute a contract of employment.  The County of Lake assumes no responsibility beyond the general accuracy of the document, nor does it assume responsibility for any errors or omissions in the information contained herein.  The contents of this specification may be modified or revoked without notice.  Terms and conditions of employment are determined through a "meet and confer" process and are subject to the Memorandum of Understanding currently in effect.