Patient Access Navigator - Central Intake - Mental Health & Addictions

Responsibilities

The Patient Access Navigator is responsible for facilitation of access into and out of Mental Health & Addiction. the Patient Access Navigator will build working relationships, solve problems and support individuals while they learn to self-navigate the health care system. The Patient Access Navigator reduces barriers that prevent patients from getting treatment/support by identifying patient needs and directing them to sources of support. The Patient Access Navigator will provide support and referral to ancillary support services for individuals needing assistance for their mental health and/or substance use/gambling. The Patient Access Navigator will act as a liaison between community resources and MHA and will remain knowledgeable of community resources, as well as Mental Health & Addiction teams and resources to ensure the best care.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work is required
• Registration with Nova Scotia College of Social Workers required
• Three years related experience in Mental Health and Addictions in a health care setting
• Experience working with individuals with Mental Health and/or substance use/gambling concerns
• High degree of motivational interviewing skills and engagement techniques
• High degree of customer service skills and effective communication skills
• Knowledge of harm reduction strategies and stages of change theory
• Knowledge and experience with brief intervention strategies and solution focused approaches
• Knowledge and experience with a trauma informed care approach
• Demonstrated awareness of community resources and programs and community development methods
• Demonstrated knowledge of cultural sensitivity and cultural competency
• High level of interpersonal awareness
• Demonstrated knowledge of recovery-oriented practice & patient and family-centered care
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, Mental Health First Aid required before starting, or committing to complete these courses
• High level of computer software knowledge (Microsoft applications, Meditech, etc)
• Working knowledge of DSM
• Experience utilizing screening and triaging tools
• Experience in offering supportive brief intervention strategies focused on harm reduction and recovery
• Ability to navigate and de-escalate situations and offer crisis support using appropriate methods when needed
• Demonstrates a high level of initiative, independent thinking and judgement required
• Must have screening and risk assessment skills, including suicide risk assessment
• Experience with triage decision making skills and problem solving skills
• Competencies in other languages an asset, French preferred
• Successful external applicants are required to provide a criminal record check (including Vulnerable Sector Search) to People Services before starting employment and assume any associated costs as a condition of employment

PLEASE NOTE: Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application. Additionally, candidates will not be considered for an interview if applications are incomplete or are missing information

Hours of Work

Permanent full-time (100%) position; 75.00 hours bi-weekly.

Salary Information

Patient Access Navigator (HTH230):

$31.85 - $40.22 hourly