Benefits Navigator - CCBHC
Centerstone
Summary
The Benefits Navigator supports Centerstone's Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) model by assisting individuals in obtaining and maintaining health insurance and public benefits that support access to care. This role focuses primarily on Illinois Medicaid and related benefit programs and works collaboratively with clients, families, clinical teams, and community partners to promote continuity of care and reduce barriers to services.
Job description
Summary of Position
The Benefits Navigator supports Centerstone's Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) model by assisting individuals in obtaining and maintaining health insurance and public benefits that support access to care. This role focuses primarily on Illinois Medicaid and related benefit programs and works collaboratively with clients, families, clinical teams, and community partners to promote continuity of care and reduce barriers to services.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Assist clients with applications, renewals, and updates for Illinois Medicaid (HFS) and other public benefits, including SNAP and related programs, using the Illinois ABE portal.
- Monitor Medicaid eligibility and renewal timelines and conduct proactive outreach to clients to reduce gaps or disruptions in coverage.
- Provide clear, trauma-informed education to clients regarding benefits eligibility, renewal requirements, and reporting responsibilities.
- Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure benefits status supports continuity of care.
- Communicate with DHS, HFS, Managed Care Organizations, and other benefit entities on behalf of clients with appropriate authorization.
- Document benefits-related activities accurately and timely in the electronic health record and designated tracking systems.
- Track basic outcomes related to benefit retention and renewals and support CCBHC reporting and quality improvement efforts.
- Maintain current knowledge of Illinois Medicaid policies, benefit programs, and CCBHC requirements.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Knowledge of or ability to learn Illinois Medicaid and public benefit programs.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage deadlines and multiple client needs.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills with diverse populations.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team and independently as needed.
- Commitment to Centerstone's values, confidentiality, and ethical practice standards.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Associate's or bachelor's degree in human services or related field preferred
- Experience with public benefits, insurance navigation, or human services preferred
- Behavioral health or community-based service experience preferred
- Knowledge of or ability to learn Illinois Medicaid and public benefit programs
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage deadlines and multiple client needs
- Effective written and verbal communication skills with diverse populations
- Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team and independently as needed
Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Health Savings Accounts
- 403(b) Retirement Plan
- Paid Time Off
- Ten Paid Holidays
- AD&D Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Long Term Disability
- Employee Resource Groups
- Continuing Education
- Employee Assistance Program
Company overview
Centerstone is one of the nation's largest nonprofit behavioral healthcare organizations, providing comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder services across multiple states. Founded as a 501(c)(3) organization, Centerstone operates as a leading healthcare provider specializing in behavioral health treatment, addiction recovery, and crisis intervention services. The organization serves over 250,000 individuals annually through a network of facilities in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Centerstone offers a full continuum of care including outpatient therapy, inpatient treatment, residential services, crisis management, counseling, housing support, and specialized programs for veterans, children, and families. Following its historic merger with Brightli in 2025, the organization now employs more than 10,000 professionals including psychiatrists, psychologists, master's-level clinicians, social workers, and support staff. Centerstone's innovative approach includes the Centerstone Institute, which focuses on clinical research, evidence-based practice implementation, and quality improvement initiatives. The organization is recognized for its commitment to underserved populations and its development of the first known simulation training center for community-based behavioral health clinicians.