Behavioral Health Outreach Specialist
City of Mount Vernon Mount Vernon, WA, USA
- Location: Mount Vernon, WA, USA
- Categories: Human and Social Services, Public Health, Public Safety
- Job Type: Full Time
- Posted: Jun 03, 2026
Job Description:
Behavioral Health Outreach Specialist
Description
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS -- Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Develops individualized care plans, coordinate with clinical providers and advocate for lasting solutions to promote dignity, safety and stability for those in need.
- Respond to 911 calls involving individuals experiencing homelessness or behavioral health challenges when safety risks to responders are minimal
- Engages individuals that are displaying behavioral health conditions such as intoxication, or crisis behaviors; assess safety and stabilization needs.
- Responds to service requests from police, fire, EMS, other first responders, or community members; provide alternative to arrest or hospitalization by linking individuals to appropriate services.
- Builds and maintain strong working relationships with local service providers, including behavioral health treatment centers, crisis services, housing and veteran’s programs, and justice partners.
- Serves as a liaison among city departments, community organizations, and service networks to enhance collaborative community response.
- Prepares detailed reports, correspondence, and data tracking related to outreach and case management activities.
- Provides education and training to first responders and community groups on behavioral health conditions and engagement strategies.
- May attend and testify at court hearings and other legal proceedings.
- Develop DSM-based clinical assessments and treatment plans to facilitate appropriate referrals.
- Participate in system planning, outreach initiatives, and the development of best practices for community-based intervention.
- Create opportunities for, and participate in, community events with those engaged in our services.
- Provide transportation service for individuals when safe to do so and it’s necessary as part of linking to services or their continuing care plan.
- Maintain strict professional ethics, confidentiality, and boundaries while demonstrating cultural competence and trauma-informed care.
- Maintain records of individuals served, services provided, case management activities conducted. Provide detailed reports, correspondence, and data tracking related to outreach and case management activities.
- Consult with team members, IOS Supervisor and other agency professionals on people with complicated issues.
- Performs related duties as assigned.
Additional Essential Functions for Outreach Specialist MSW
- Prepare court affidavits for involuntary related client holds and/or behavioral health evaluations.
- Assist police officers or Designated Crisis Responders constructing affidavits or related legal processes that are intended to restrict actions based on behavioral health circumstances.
- Conduct comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments and mental health evaluations and Substance use Disorder (SUDs) assessments consistent with licensure.
- Provide clinical supervision to Supervise MSW interns as assigned