Meridian Health Behavioral Services

Position Overview

Meridian Health Behavioral Services is actively seeking a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) to join our team in Lakewood, New Jersey. In this full-time position, you will play a vital role in providing therapeutic services to individuals, couples, families, and groups coping with various mental health challenges. You will manage caseloads while offering psychotherapy, mental health assessments, and consultation to help our clients achieve meaningful life goals.

About the Organization

Meridian Health Behavioral Services is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate mental health care. Located in Lakewood, NJ, we operate within a state-of-the-art Detox Center, focusing on recovery and rehabilitation. Our multidisciplinary team collaborates closely to foster an environment where patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs.

Work Environment

This position is remote, allowing flexibility in your work setting while ensuring you remain integral to our treatment team. The scheduled work hours are from 9 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Friday, with no evening or weekend responsibilities, thus promoting a healthy work-life balance.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough assessments of mental health needs, develop personalized treatment plans, and coordinate behavioral health services for patients in various stages of their detox recovery.
• Utilize your knowledge of local, state, and federal behavioral healthcare programs to stay compliant and informed about the best practices in the field.
• Work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team, maintaining effective communication with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to support holistic patient care.
• Uphold the highest standards in mental health policies and procedures within the behavioral health program, ensuring adherence at all times.
• Provide timely and professional evaluations and intakes for new patients, ensuring courteous and empathetic engagement.
• Engage in counseling sessions and crisis interventions, applying techniques that help patients manage acute challenges and reduce anxiety.
• Refer patients who require more intensive support to appropriate inpatient or specialty care facilities, ensuring continuity of care.
• Screen patients for prescription drug abuse, illicit drug usage, and alcohol dependency, offering counseling or referrals as necessary.

Patient Population / Client Focus

Your role will involve working primarily with patients undergoing detoxification and individuals with varying levels of substance use disorders and accompanying mental health issues. You will tailor your approach based on each client’s background, cultural context, and specific recovery goals, providing customized therapeutic interventions aimed at facilitating their recovery process.

Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in counseling or social work from an accredited institution is required.
• Current New Jersey licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).
• Demonstrated clinical skills with a focus on delivering psychotherapy across diverse populations.
• Strong crisis intervention capabilities, evidenced by a sound judgment in high-pressure situations.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills, particularly in presenting clinical information to administrative teams.
• A proven ability to function as part of a collaborative team in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
• Proficiency in electronic health record (EHR) systems to manage patient documentation effectively.
• Experience working with a culturally diverse clientele is highly preferred.

Preferred Experience

• At least two years of direct clinical experience in a behavioral health context, particularly with substance use and mental health cases in a detox setting.
• A strong understanding of evidence-based treatment modalities.
• Familiarity with case management and referral processes specific to substance use treatment.

Compensation and Benefits

Your dedication and expertise will be rewarded with a competitive salary range of $80,000 to $100,000 per year. Meridian Health Behavioral Services is committed to your well-being and offers comprehensive benefits, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage to ensure your health and well-being.
• Life and disability insurance for peace of mind.
• Malpractice insurance covering you as a practicing clinician.
• Access to an employee assistance program offering mental health and counseling support.
• Professional liability insurance, enabling you to focus on patient care without financial stress.
• Minimal paperwork for patient interactions, maximizing time spent with clients and reducing administrative burdens.
• A full caseload, allowing you to engage meaningfully with clients and effect positive change in their lives.

Career Growth Opportunities

At Meridian Health Behavioral Services, we value professional development and provide opportunities for continuing education and specialization. As you gain experience in our detox center, you will have access to mentorship programs and potential leadership roles in various therapeutic initiatives.

Why Join Our Team

Joining Meridian Health Behavioral Services means becoming part of a caring community dedicated to improving mental health outcomes. Our supportive environment encourages collaboration and innovation while prioritizing your professional satisfaction and personal growth. Together, we make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.

Application Information

If you are interested in pursuing this rewarding career opportunity, please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications. We look forward to welcoming you to our team!