Open Health Care Clinic·Baton Rouge, Louisiana
The Behavioral Health Counselor conducts patient assessments, develops individualized treatment plans, and provides evidence-based therapeutic interventions. They also collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to coordinate care and ensure patients have access to necessary community services.
The Behavioral Health Counselor will conduct patient assessments, implement therapeutic interventions, complete individualized treatment plans, provide patient education, and complete referrals as necessary.
Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) coverage is restricted to acts or omissions of a covered entity within the scope of employment of a covered individual. For actions to be within the scope of employment and be covered, they must: be within the approved scope of the project, including sites, services, and other activities. Duties, as outlined in this job description and the contract for services, align within the scope of employment for a Nurse Practitioner and are therefore covered by the Federally Supported Health Centers Assistance Acts (FSHCAA) and the FTCA.
Scope of Project: Health Center Program
General Primary Medical Care, Diagnostic Lab, Diagnostic Radiology, Screening, Coverage for Emergencies during and after hours, Voluntary Family Planning, Immunizations, Well Child Services, Gynecological Care, Obstetrical, Prenatal, Intrapartum Care (Labor and Delivery), Postpartum Care, Preventative Dental, Pharmaceutical Services, Case Management, Eligibility Assistance, Health Education, Outreach, Transportation, Translation, Additional Dental Services, Mental Health Services, Substance Use Disorder Services, Podiatry
commitment, compassion, diversity, integrity, and quality.
Accepts responsibility for ensuring that performance meets the standards of the professional, ethical and relevant legislated requirements.
Demonstrates cultural competency and commitment to patients.
Maintains weekly scheduled appointments in electronic health record.
2. Patient Screening/Assessment
Assist patients as they present for services through walk-in or warm hand off from other providers.
Evaluate patients through observations, tests, surveys, interviews, or other methods.
Conduct comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment of patient needs.
Assist in identifying and addressing barriers to medical or behavioral health services.
Collaborates and consults with interagency and intra agency multidisciplinary care team inclusive of review of clinical findings and recommendations.
Conducts diagnostic evaluations and assigns appropriate DSM and ICD diagnoses codes.
3. Treatment Planning and Follow-Through
Coordinate all aspects of behavioral health care management.
Collaborate with patients to develop individualized treatment plans with specific goals, objectives, and interventions.
Work closely with multidisciplinary team of medical and behavioral health providers, clinical staff, and external partners to address issues that may impact patients' ability to engage in care.
Participate in case conferences to assess patient needs and coordinate services.
Provide evidence based therapeutic services to patients and their families to address mental health and substance use disorders.
Complete and follow up on referrals to community services, including advocating for patients and ensuring patient access to community agencies.
Assist with crisis intervention as needed.
4. Reporting and Program/Staff Development
Maintain confidential client records and files and prepare reports as required.
Completes all required documentation including orientation documents, assessments, treatment plans, and progress notes in electronic medical record within required timeframe.
Attend all mandatory meetings and trainings.
Reviews and remains updated on agency and departmental policies and procedures.
Maintains CEs as required by applicable licensing body.
Provide education to patients, OHCC staff, and community members on behavioral health symptoms and diagnosis through case conferences, blogs, or trainings.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those the employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Moderate noise (i.e. business office with computers, phone, and printers, light traffic).
Ability to work in a confined area.
Ability to sit at a computer terminal for an extended period.
Driving during the workday as well as local or out of state travel may be required to perform job duties.
Market context
In Louisiana, behavioral health counselor roles typically draw steady demand as schools, clinics, and community providers look for licensed clinicians who can support mental health and substance use treatment. These jobs are competitive because employers often want a master’s degree, an active Louisiana LCSW or LPC, and prior clinical experience. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your license status and tailor your application to your counseling setting experience.
