Access Screener Coordinator

Primary Responsibilities

• Triage and screen service requests in person and by phone, referring emergent cases to crisis services or providing de-escalation support as needed.
• Use clinical judgment and de-escalation techniques to work with individuals in distress or experiencing a behavioral health crisis.
• Provide accurate information and referrals based on understanding of KMHS services and community resources.
• Become certified as a Navigator to assist clients in applying for Medicaid (Apple Health) and related benefits.
• Guide clients through DSHS and Washington Health Benefit Exchange application processes.
• Maintain current knowledge of KMHS programs, intake criteria, and program-specific procedures.
• Accurately enter and manage data in the electronic medical record and track referrals and outcomes.
• Coordinate intake paperwork and communicate effectively with other KMHS teams to ensure continuity of care.
• Monitor and process provider referrals and maintain compliance through system audits and reporting.
• Provide high-quality customer service to clients, families, and partner agencies in a respectful and efficient manner.

Minimum Qualifications

• EDUCATION: Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, social services, or a related field.
• EXPERIENCE: Entry level (no prior related work experience)
• LICENSURE: Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration.

Preferred Qualifications

• EXPERIENCE: Experienced (minimum 2 years of job-related experience)
• Experience working with behavioral health consumers in a clinically oriented setting.
• Experience entering data into an electronic medical record.

Performance Requirements

KNOWLEDGE: Maintain a working knowledge of current trends in community mental health, including health care reform and automation of job tasks using computer technology.

SKILLS: Communication ‑ Ensure quality service to the public by communicating in a sensitive, respectful and knowledgeable manner. Contribute toward the development and maintenance of positive and collaborative relationships with KMHS programs, other public or private agencies, and the public to enhance the overall mission and goals of the agency. Computer skills ‑ Proficient with computers and able to concurrently enter data into an electronic medical record with speed and accuracy while speaking with consumers face-to-face or over the telephone.

Abilities: Ability to participate as an integral member of the Access Team. Work in a cooperative and collaborative manner as a team member. Able to assist in building positive working relationships with staff of all agency departments. Demonstrated ability to be comfortable and practical with assisting a diverse population of individuals and families across the lifespan with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness or Serious Emotional Disturbance and who may be in crisis.

Equipment Operated: Standard office equipment including computers, fax machines, copiers, printers, telephones, etc.

Work Environment: Frequent mobility and/or sitting required for extended periods.

Mental/Physical Requirements: While performing the job duties, the employee must walk, sit, use hands and fingers, reach with arms, talk, or listen. Peripheral vision is also required for this position.