Mission Community Hospital·Los Angeles, California
The Psychiatric Social Worker provides comprehensive psychosocial services, including assessments and discharge planning for behavioral health patients. They collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to facilitate therapy sessions and coordinate aftercare services.
Mission Community Hospital is seeking two (2) Per Diem Psychiatric Social Workers to join our Behavioral Health team. This position is ideal for candidates who are available to work approximately 3–4 weekend day shifts per monthand are passionate about providing compassionate, patient-centered behavioral health services in an acute care hospital setting.
The Psychiatric Social Worker provides comprehensive psychosocial services to behavioral health patients and their families. Responsibilities include psychosocial assessments, discharge planning, crisis intervention, therapeutic groups, individual and family consultations, and coordination of aftercare services. The Social Worker collaborates closely with the interdisciplinary treatment team to ensure safe, effective, and timely patient care.
Essential duties & responsibilities
Complete comprehensive psychosocial assessments for assigned patients.
Develop and coordinate individualized discharge plans, including referrals to community resources and aftercare services.
Facilitate individual, family, and group therapy sessions as appropriate.
Collaborate with psychiatrists, nurses, case managers, and the interdisciplinary team in treatment planning and utilization review meetings.
Advocate for patients while balancing clinical judgment and safe discharge planning.
Coordinate placement referrals and continuity of care with community agencies and outpatient providers.
Prepare and present required documentation for legal proceedings, including Probable Cause Hearings, when applicable.
Maintain accurate, timely, and legally compliant documentation in the electronic medical record.
Communicate effectively with patients, families, physicians, staff, and community agencies.
Respond to crisis situations with professionalism and sound clinical judgment.
Participate in weekend coverage as scheduled and assist with additional coverage when needed.
Candidates must hold a Master's Degree in Social Work and have at least one year of experience in an acute care or psychiatric setting. Eligibility for California Social Work licensure (ASW or LCSW) is required.
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.
