Behavioral Health Mentor | Healthy Transitions Program at Sanford Health

Role Overview

The Behavioral Health Mentor within Sanford Health's Healthy Transitions Program plays a pivotal role in supporting the mental and emotional well-being of young individuals. This position focuses on providing guidance, encouragement, and practical assistance to students facing various challenges that may hinder their academic and personal development. The mentor acts as a liaison between the student, their family, the school, and other relevant support systems, fostering a collaborative environment to promote positive outcomes. This role is essential in identifying and addressing barriers to a student's success, whether they stem from academic struggles, behavioral issues, or social-emotional difficulties. The Behavioral Health Mentor works directly with students to improve attendance, academic performance, and overall behavior, while also providing a supportive presence and a listening ear.

A Day in the Life of a Behavioral Health Mentor

A typical day for a Behavioral Health Mentor might involve: * **Student Check-ins:** Regularly monitoring student attendance, grades, and behavior, providing feedback and encouragement. * **Family Communication:** Contacting parents via phone, email, or home visits to share updates, address concerns, and develop strategies to re-engage students in school. * **Collaboration:** Working with teachers, counselors, social workers, and other professionals to create a coordinated support system for each student. * **Mentoring Sessions:** Conducting one-on-one or group mentoring sessions to provide guidance, support, and skill-building activities. * **Documentation:** Maintaining accurate records of student progress and mentoring efforts. * **Resource Navigation:** Connecting students and families with resources such as tutoring, counseling, or social services. * **Advocacy:** Advocating for students' needs within the school system and the community. * **Problem Solving:** Facilitating communication and problem-solving between home and school to address challenges and promote positive outcomes. * **Professional Development:** Attending training sessions and workshops to enhance mentoring skills and stay informed about best practices.

Why Dickinson, North Dakota?

Dickinson, North Dakota, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. The community is known for its friendly atmosphere, strong sense of community, and access to outdoor recreational opportunities. Situated near the scenic Badlands, Dickinson provides ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. For professionals, Dickinson offers a stable job market and a lower cost of living compared to many larger cities. The community also boasts a strong educational system, making it an ideal place to raise a family. Sanford Health is a major employer in the area, providing a wide range of healthcare services and career opportunities.

Career Path

The Behavioral Health Mentor position can serve as a stepping stone to various career paths within Sanford Health and the broader healthcare field. Potential career advancement opportunities include: * **Senior Behavioral Health Mentor:** Leading and mentoring a team of Behavioral Health Mentors. * **Care Coordinator:** Coordinating care for individuals with complex healthcare needs. * **Social Worker:** Providing social services and support to individuals and families. * **Mental Health Counselor:** Providing individual and group counseling services. * **Program Manager:** Overseeing the operations and development of the Healthy Transitions Program. Further education and certifications can enhance career prospects and open doors to more specialized roles within the behavioral health field.

Salary and Benefits

The estimated salary range for a Behavioral Health Mentor in Dickinson, North Dakota, is between $35,000 and $50,000 per year. The actual salary may vary depending on experience, education, and qualifications. Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: * Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision) * Paid time off (PTO) and holidays * 401(k) retirement plan with employer match * Employee assistance program (EAP) * Life insurance and disability coverage * Flexible spending accounts (FSA) * Health savings accounts (HSA) * Tuition reimbursement and educational assistance * Professional development opportunities * Employee discount programs * Wellness programs

Sanford Health Culture

Sanford Health is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued and empowered. The organization embraces a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Sanford Health is dedicated to providing high-quality care to its patients and serving the needs of the community. Employees at Sanford Health have access to a wide range of resources and opportunities for professional growth and development. The organization encourages employees to pursue their passions and make a difference in the lives of others.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply for the Behavioral Health Mentor position through the Sanford Health careers website. The online application process typically involves submitting a resume, cover letter, and completing an online assessment. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be contacted for an interview.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**1. What qualifications are required for the Behavioral Health Mentor position?** * Current enrollment or recent graduate of an Associate or Bachelor's degree program from an accredited college or university. Knowledge of the healthcare industry is preferred. **2. What are the primary responsibilities of a Behavioral Health Mentor?** * Regularly checking on target students’ attendance, grades, and behavior; communicating with families; collaborating with teachers and counselors; and providing guidance and support to students. **3. What skills are essential for success in this role?** * Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills; the ability to establish and maintain professional boundaries; and a passion for working with young people. **4. What is the work environment like at Sanford Health?** * Sanford Health is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued and empowered. **5. What opportunities are there for career advancement?** * The Behavioral Health Mentor position can lead to various career paths within Sanford Health, such as Senior Behavioral Health Mentor, Care Coordinator, Social Worker, or Program Manager. **6. What benefits does Sanford Health offer?** * Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, and tuition reimbursement. **7. How can I prepare for an interview for this position?** * Research Sanford Health and the Healthy Transitions Program, practice answering common interview questions, and be prepared to discuss your experience working with young people. **8. Is prior experience in healthcare required?** * While knowledge of the healthcare industry is preferred, it is not always required. A strong interest in working with students and families is essential. **9. What is the time commitment for this position?** * The position may be full-time or part-time, depending on the needs of the program. Specific hours will be discussed during the interview process. **10. How does the Behavioral Health Mentor role contribute to the community?** * By providing support and guidance to students, the Behavioral Health Mentor helps to improve their academic performance, social-emotional well-being, and overall success in life, contributing to a stronger and healthier community.