UR Thompson Health·Canandaigua, New York
The Behavioral Health Assessment Officer performs psychiatric evaluations, triage, and crisis interventions for patients in the emergency department and inpatient units. They coordinate with hospital and community providers to ensure appropriate follow-up care and develop treatment plans in consultation with psychiatrists.
Per Diem - Weekend day shift
The social worker assigned to the position of Behavioral Health Assessment Officer (BHAO) will be the primary evaluator of patients referred for psychiatric assessment in the emergency department based on presenting behavioral health needs and on the acute inpatient units for patients identified by the hospital providers as experiencing mental health symptoms that are impairing the patient’s functional status.
The BHAO is responsible for providing psychiatric evaluations, triage and brief crisis interventions including suicide risk assessments, safety planning and safe disposition related to behavioral health needs.
The BHAO is also responsible for coordinating with hospital and community providers to ensure adequate communication and facilitation of patient care including appropriate mental health, substance use and primary care follow up as appropriate.
Administering rating scales and collecting patient reported outcomes measures for patients in the Hospital ED or inpatient units when clinically appropriate is another expectation of the BHAO’s role.
The BHAO is expected to consult with the psychiatrist assigned by phone regarding the assessment of the patient and to develop a treatment plan and then to relay this information to the medical care teams.
• Required LMSW in NYS or obtained within 18 months of hire or transfer.
The social worker who occupies this position must have a MSW from an accredited social work graduate program.
Must be licensed by the State of New York (LMSW/LCSW/ LCSW-R) and demonstrate competency in providing cognitive and behavioral interventions within an emergency department or inpatient setting.
Internship/work experience in the mental health setting providing suicide risk assessments as well as safety planning
At least 1-2 years of experience working in an emergency room setting providing mental health evaluations.
$33.00 - $43.00/hr
Starting Pay: Based on experience
Thompson Health is an EOE encouraging individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply.
Candidates must hold an MSW from an accredited program and be licensed as an LMSW, LCSW, or LCSW-R in New York State. A minimum of 1-2 years of experience providing mental health evaluations in an emergency room setting is required.
Market context
Behavioral health roles in New York are often in steady demand, especially for clinicians who can support diverse age groups and handle assessments or admissions. These positions can be competitive because employers commonly look for independent licensure, while also considering associate-level candidates with clear growth toward full licensure. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your licensure status and assessment experience before applying.
