Mental Health Associate I (54723)
CAYA Collaborative Care·Bowling Green, Kentucky
CAYA Collaborative Care·Bowling Green, Kentucky
Provide community and clinic-based psychiatric rehabilitation and supportive services to adults with serious mental illness and substance use disorders. Deliver skill-building interventions and coordinate care with interdisciplinary teams to promote independent living and community integration.
Psychiatric Rehabilitation & Skill Building Plan, supervise, and teach clients in therapeutic skill-building groups and individual sessions focused on activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental ADLs, symptom self-management, social skills, and community living skills. Provide psychiatric rehabilitation interventions that enhance functional abilities, independent living skills, community participation, and overall quality of life consistent with Kentucky Medicaid requirements. Support development of recovery-oriented routines and coping strategies in home, program, and community settings. Assist with medication organization and adherence support as allowed by agency policy (not medication administration). Community Integration & Supportive Services Assist participants in accessing employment, education, volunteer opportunities, transportation, healthcare, and other community resources. Reduce social isolation through community engagement, recreational activities, and facilitation of natural supports and meaningful relationships. Provide general supportive services, including problem-solving around daily living challenges, advocacy, and linkage to appropriate resources. Social Determinants of Health Address barriers related to income, food security, transportation, benefits, healthcare access, legal concerns, and housing as they impact recovery and independent living. Connect participants with financial assistance, benefits programs, and community resources as needed. Documentation, Record Keeping, and Compliance Complete timely, accurate, Medicaid-compliant rehabilitation documentation, including daily progress notes and other required records. Maintain person-centered records that demonstrate medical necessity, interventions provided, participant response, and progress toward treatment and rehabilitation goals, in accordance with Kentucky Medicaid, CCBHC standards (when applicable), and agency policies. Gather and enter program data into the agency’s electronic record or designated computer systems for tracking outcomes, billing, and quality improvement. Care Coordination, Collaboration, and Referrals Collaborate with therapists, psychiatrists, primary care providers, peer support specialists, case managers, and other internal and external service providers to ensure coordinated, comprehensive care. Participate in interdisciplinary staffing and treatment team meetings as requested. Refer clients to other services (e.g., therapy, case management, medical care, housing resources, community supports) as requested or clinically indicated. Engage families and natural supports, when appropriate, to promote ongoing care and recovery. Program Operations and Activities Assist with day-to-day program operations, including planning and implementing therapeutic groups, psychoeducational sessions, and recovery-oriented activities. Help secure guest speakers and community partners to support program curricula and client education. Participate in program goal planning and provide input into budget-related needs, including supplies and activities, as directed by the supervisor. Training, Flexibility, and Regional Coverage Maintain required certifications, including First Aid and CPR, and participate in in-service and continuing education programs. Work flexible hours to meet program needs as directed by the supervisor. Provide coverage at other agency behavioral health programs or sites within the region when assigned. Assist in transporting clients for program-related appointments, services, and community activities when needed and approved. Other Duties Participate in staff meetings, supervision, and agency initiatives that support quality improvement and fidelity to evidence-based practices. Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor consistent with the scope of a Mental Health Associate I in behavioral health settings. QualificationsQUALIFICATIONS: Required: Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in psychology, sociology, social work, human services, or other Medicaid-recognized behavioral health field, not pursuing a master’s degree.
Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills; ability to convey a positive and professional attitude with clients, families, and staff.
Ability to work independently in community (varies by program) and program settings and to safely navigate varied environments (homes, apartments, shelters, community agencies).
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of current automobile insurance; ability to travel throughout the designated service area.
Requires a Bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, social work, or a related behavioral health field. Must possess a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and the ability to work independently in various community settings.
Market context
Behavioral health employers in Kentucky often look for candidates who can support clients in community, school, or clinical settings while meeting basic credentialing requirements. These roles can be competitive because preferred education, CPR, and Handle with Care certifications may help candidates stand out, along with any related experience. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your certification status and tailor your application to the setting you can support.
