Mental Health Specialist 1 or 2

Regular duties include investigating inpatient psychiatric mental health holds by interviewing individuals alleged to have a mental illness and their families; reviewing medical records and police reports; and consulting with treatment providers to determine if an individual meets criteria for a civil commitment hearing. Additional responsibilities include coordinating with other counties and the Oregon State Hospital, writing director’s custodies when appropriate, attending virtual hearings, and consulting with members of the community on issues pertaining to dangerousness and involuntary treatment.

Mental Health Specialist 1: $32.60 - $43.48

About the Position

Lane County Behavioral Health in Eugene, Oregon is seeking a skilled mental health clinician to serve the community of Lane County as a Civil Commitment Investigator. This is a full-time position within a supportive team environment. This position is eligible for telework after 6 months of employment and may also be eligible for an alternate work schedule. This position has no billing requirements.

Regular duties include investigating inpatient psychiatric mental health holds by interviewing individuals alleged to have a mental illness and their families; reviewing medical records and police reports; and consulting with treatment providers to determine if an individual meets criteria for a civil commitment hearing. The investigator uses clinical knowledge and skills to determine recommendations.

This work occurs in hospitals, the community, and in office. In this role, the investigator writes clear and succinct investigation court reports that captures evidence for civil commitment proceedings. Additional responsibilities include coordinating with other counties and the Oregon State Hospital, writing director’s custodies when appropriate, attending virtual hearings, and consulting with members of the community on issues pertaining to dangerousness and involuntary treatment.

Investigators will also be cross trained as a post-commitment liaison to support committed patients in hospital and community settings.

Our ideal candidate works as part of a cohesive team, seeks consultation when needed, has strong clinical writing skills, and communicates effectively. This investigator will be flexible, is able to prioritize, has time management skills, and successfully works independently.

For this position, we are looking for individuals with a passion to serve adults with severe and persistent mental health needs who are also engaged in the Civil Commitment process. This position requires an unencumbered QMHP certification as well as certification as a Civil Commitment Investigator with OHA within 60 days of hire.

About the Division

Lane County Behavioral Health provides services to more than 1,600 individuals with behavioral health conditions. We work with community partners to provide a continuum of care from prevention through treatment and aftercare in an environment that promotes a culture of resilience and recovery.

*Lane County employees may be eligible for student loan repayment: See links below.

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness
• National Health Service Corps

Schedule: Monday - Friday; 8:00am - 5:00pm

*This is an AFSCME represented position*

Mental Health Specialist 1 Training & Experience:

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in a mental health field, psychology, counseling, social work or a related field.

• One year of some experience working directly with mentally or emotionally disturbed clients in the provision of behavioral health services is highly desirable.

• QMHP Certification or enrolled as Clinical Social Work Associate, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate.

Mental Health Specialist 2 Training & Experience:

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in a mental health field, psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field.

• Two years of responsible professional mental health experience, including one year of experience specific to the program or area of assignment.

• Oregon Health Licensure required: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Psychologist, or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

• An equivalent combination of experience and training that will demonstrate the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. 

 Special Requirements:

• This position is subject to a full criminal offender information record check.
• Offers of employment are contingent upon consenting to and successfully passing a drug screening test.
• Please note that as part of the screening process, Lane County will verify license and certification status.

Notes:

• This position is subject to a DHS ORCHARDS background check.
• QMHP Certification through MHACBO
• NPI number
• Transcripts
• Diploma
• CV or Resume

Studies have shown that women and BIPOC individuals are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they are able to perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. The county will consider any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

Mental Health Specialist 1/2

Selection Process

Equal Employment Opportunity

Lane County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace.  All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.

Strategic Plan

In alignment with Lane County's Strategic Plan, incumbent(s) will be expected to demonstrate the following core behaviors: Passion to Serve, Driven to Connect, and Focused on Solutions.

The 2025 - 2027 Strategic Plan focuses on the areas that Lane County will pursue as a way to deliver on our vision for the residents of Lane County. To meet these challenges, we know that the basis of our efforts lies in leveraging our people and partnerships to achieve our Strategic Priorities. We also recognize that the quality and commitment of our staff is essential to a shared future where Lane County is the best place in which to live, work, and play.

Veteran Preference Information

Trauma Informed Care Statement

Lane County Health & Human Services is committed to providing Trauma Informed Care.  As an organization, we recognize that many of the people we serve have experienced trauma, either currently, recently or in their past.  Our agency is dedicated to incorporating an understanding of trauma, both with our clients and with each other.  Our employees receive ongoing training to develop or deepen their understanding of trauma and its impacts.