MENTAL HEALTH ASSISTANT                                                  2503

 

 

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

Under the direction of a professional staff member, an employee in this class works directly with clients with social, emotional and other mentally related dysfunctions and with mental health agencies that provide services to these clients.  The incumbent acts as the link between the various programs and the clients.  Assignments are received from an administrative supervisor.  Does related work as required.

 

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

               Interviews and screens patients at intake sessions, and records pertinent biographical data;

               Transports clients as needed for clinical and/or support services;

               Maintains records and updates clients files to indicate treatment and progress;

               Participates in program audits of contract agencies;

               Evaluates clients' applications to determine level of need and makes referrals to Community Support Services;

               Maintains a central record of program policies, procedures, rules and appendices.

 

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Good knowledge of current literature and sources of information and assistance pertaining to mental health problems; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients in Mental Health settings; ability to obtain and record pertinent data, information and material for client records; ability to present ideas clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

      OPEN COMPETITIVE

Either:

a)    Completion of sixty (60) credit hours from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by NY State; or

 

b)    Graduation from a standard senior high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma, and two (2) years of experience working directly with clients in a mental hygiene setting.

 

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

At the time of appointment and during employment in this title employees must possess a valid New York State driver's license.

 

 

R 4/5/06

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive

Review 7/23/15