Kaiser Permanente·Vacaville, California
Evaluates and diagnoses Health Plan members in primary care with mental or behavioral conditions affecting their medical health. Develops and implements treatment plans including psychotherapy and crisis intervention while collaborating with medical teams.
In a Consultant-Liaison role, evaluates and diagnosis Health Plan members seen in primary care who have mental disorders or behavioral conditions that affect or are a consequence of their medical condition.
Utilizes principles of Health Psychology to develop implement, coordinate and evaluate treatment plans for referred members that may include crisis intervention, brief psychotherapy, psychoeducation groups and brief case management. Prepares concise intake evaluations and treatment plans, and maintains ongoing confidential progress records in accord with state and NCQA regulations. Provides education and support to members and their families to encourage compliance with medical and behavioral regimes. Co-manages medical conditions through the use of nonpharmacologic and behavioral interventions in order to leverage physician time and develop appropriate patterns of utilization. Administers and evaluates psychological and neuropsychological tests on a limited basis. Collaborates with physicians in screening and evaluating patients for psychotropic medications, within the scope of practice. Provides consultation and training to other members of the APC team in the areas of mental health, behavioral medicine and health psychology. Provides consultation on program development, and conducts program evaluation and outcome assessment, as needed. Serves as liaison and refers to the Psychiatry Department, Chemical Dependency Services, Behavioral Health Education, specialty behavioral medicine services and other Medical Teams as appropriate.
Familiarity with psychopharmacology and health psychology background preferred. Experience working in a multidisciplinary setting preferred.
Requires a PhD, PsyD, or EdD in Clinical Counseling, Health, or School Psychology and a valid Psychologist License. Candidates must have clinical experience in diagnosis, psychotherapy, and consultation within a medical environment.
Market context
In California, behavioral-health roles tied to substance use disorder counseling and case management are typically supported by ongoing community and treatment-program demand. These positions are competitive because employers often look for a high school diploma, at least 2 years of SUD counseling or case management experience, and current Registered or Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor status. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit and note that professional development and paid continuing education are listed as benefits.