Behavioral Health Therapist at WVU Medicine United Hospital Center

Role Overview

As a Behavioral Health Therapist at WVU Medicine United Hospital Center (UHC), you will play a vital role in providing comprehensive mental health services to patients and their families. This position involves assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating therapy for assigned patients, as well as providing social work services, including discharge planning and linkage to community resources. You will work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to address the diverse needs of patients, ensuring they receive the highest quality care.

A Day in the Life

Each day as a Behavioral Health Therapist will bring unique challenges and rewards. Here's a glimpse into what a typical day might look like:

• Morning: Review patient charts and prepare for scheduled therapy sessions. Conduct initial assessments for new patients, gathering information about their personal, social, and emotional development, family dynamics, and any relevant biopsychosocial factors.
• Mid-day: Facilitate individual, group, or family counseling sessions, utilizing evidence-based practices. Collaborate with the treatment team to develop and implement individualized treatment plans. Address any immediate patient needs, such as crisis intervention or emotional support.
• Afternoon: Document all services provided in the medical record, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards. Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient progress and adjust treatment plans as needed. Work on discharge planning for patients preparing to leave the hospital, connecting them with appropriate community resources and support services.
• Throughout the Day: Continuously assess patients for signs of abuse or neglect, following mandated reporting guidelines. Educate patients and families about their rights, advance directives, and informed consent.

Why Bridgeport, West Virginia?

Bridgeport, West Virginia, offers a blend of small-town charm and access to larger city amenities. Located in the heart of the state, Bridgeport provides a family-friendly environment with excellent schools and a strong sense of community. The area boasts beautiful natural scenery, with opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing. WVU Medicine UHC is a pillar of the community, offering stability and growth opportunities for its employees. The cost of living in Bridgeport is also relatively low, making it an affordable place to live and work.

Career Path

WVU Medicine is committed to the professional growth of its employees. As a Behavioral Health Therapist, you will have opportunities to advance your career through continuing education, specialized training, and leadership development programs. Potential career paths include:

• Senior Behavioral Health Therapist: Provide mentorship and supervision to junior therapists, while also managing a caseload of complex cases.
• Clinical Supervisor: Oversee the clinical operations of a behavioral health unit, ensuring quality care and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Program Manager: Develop and implement new behavioral health programs, addressing unmet needs in the community.
• Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)/Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): Pursue advanced licensure to provide independent clinical services and potentially open a private practice.

Salary & Benefits

The estimated salary range for a Behavioral Health Therapist at WVU Medicine UHC is $65,000 to $95,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with employer matching contributions
• Life Insurance: Basic and supplemental life insurance options
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services
• Tuition Reimbursement: Financial assistance for continuing education
• Wellness Programs: Initiatives to promote employee health and well-being
• Employee Discounts: Discounts on WVU Medicine services and local businesses

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is a leading healthcare system in West Virginia, committed to providing exceptional patient care and fostering a supportive work environment for its employees. The organization values teamwork, collaboration, and continuous improvement. WVU Medicine is also dedicated to diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming and equitable workplace for all.

How to Apply

To apply for the Behavioral Health Therapist position at WVU Medicine UHC, please click the "Apply" button at the top of this page and complete the online application. Be sure to include your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications or licenses.

FAQ

1. What qualifications are required for this position?

   A Master’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, or a related field is required, along with WV Licensure in a field of study that permits practicing psychotherapy. BLS and AVADE certifications are also required within 30 days of hire.

2. Is prior experience in behavioral health therapy preferred?

   Yes, two (2) years of training and/or experience in Behavioral Health Therapy is preferred.

3. What are the core duties and responsibilities of this role?

   The core duties include performing client assessments, participating in treatment planning, conducting discharge planning, facilitating counseling sessions, and maintaining accurate documentation.

4. What type of counseling will I be providing?

   You will be facilitating individual, group, and family counseling as needed, utilizing evidence-based practices.

5. What kind of support system is available for employees?

   WVU Medicine offers a supportive work environment with access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness programs, and opportunities for professional development.

6. What opportunities are there for career advancement?

   Opportunities for advancement include becoming a Senior Behavioral Health Therapist, Clinical Supervisor, or Program Manager. You can also pursue advanced licensure.

7. What is the culture like at WVU Medicine?

   WVU Medicine fosters a culture of teamwork, collaboration, continuous improvement, and diversity and inclusion.

8. What benefits are offered to employees?

   WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, life insurance, disability insurance, and tuition reimbursement.

9. What community resources will I be working with?

   You will be working with a variety of community resources to support patients' discharge planning needs, including mental health agencies, social service organizations, and housing providers.

10. How does WVU Medicine support continuing education?

    WVU Medicine offers tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities to support employees' continuing education goals.