Mental Health Practitioner (Part Time)- Higher Ground St. Paul - job 1 of 2

As a Mental Health Practitioner at RADIAS Health's Higher Ground St. Paul, your responsibilities will primarily revolve around providing direct supportive services. You'll be tasked with teaching independent living skills, developing crisis plans for individuals, and working collaboratively with both the residents and your team. In addition, you will conduct assessments to determine necessary support, assist with discharge planning, and maintain positive relationships with both staff and external providers. Your role is crucial in ensuring the well-being and quality of life of those you serve.

To apply for the Mental Health Practitioner position at Higher Ground St. Paul, candidates must have at least a Bachelor's degree in Psychology or a related field, along with 2,000 hours of supervised experience in delivering services to persons with mental illness. A minimum of one year of professional experience in working with adults with mental health challenges is also required, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the unique demands of this role.

Success in the Mental Health Practitioner role at RADIAS Health hinges on a combination of interpersonal and technical skills. You should possess strong communication abilities, empathy, patience, and critical thinking to effectively engage with persons served. Additionally, skills in crisis management and de-escalation techniques are vital to navigate challenging situations. Being adaptable and committed to continuous professional development will also significantly benefit your work within the supportive housing program.

The part-time schedule for the Mental Health Practitioner position at Higher Ground St. Paul consists of evening shifts on every other weekend, specifically Saturday and Sunday from 4 pm to 10 pm. This allows practitioners to engage meaningfully with persons served while also catering to their work-life balance. If you're looking for a rewarding part-time role that fits into your schedule, this position could be the perfect opportunity!

RADIAS Health is committed to the ongoing professional growth of its Mental Health Practitioners. Employees have access to a range of training opportunities tailored to their roles, including specialized sessions on crisis intervention, behavioral management, and compliance with relevant statutes. Participation in team meetings and regular supervisory sessions further enriches the experience, creating a collaborative learning environment that empowers every practitioner to excel in their field.

When addressing this question, focus on a specific instance involving effective de-escalation or crisis management. Detail the situation, what actions you took, and the outcome. Highlight your ability to remain calm under pressure, use effective communication, and collaborate with your team, while ensuring the safety and well-being of the individual involved.

Discuss your methodology in developing individualized goal plans. Explain how you assess needs through active listening, collaboration, and mutually agreeing on objectives. Showcase your flexibility and respect for the person's preferences while ensuring the plan aligns with their journey to recovery and independence.

Share specific techniques you find effective, such as using role-playing, interactive discussions, or hands-on teaching methods. Mention the importance of tailoring your approach to the individual's unique capabilities and preferences, ensuring they feel empowered and capable in developing skills like budgeting or conversational abilities.

Articulate your approach to managing behavioral emergencies, emphasizing your training in crisis intervention. Describe steps you take to assess the situation, de-escalate tension, and implement a crisis plan. Demonstrating your ability to prioritize safety while maintaining a supportive environment is key.

Highlight a specific experience where you worked with external treatment providers. Discuss the communication strategies you used, how you ensured continuity of care, and how collaborative efforts led to improved outcomes or resolutions for individuals in your care.

Acknowledge potential challenges such as managing diverse behaviors, emotional demands, or varying levels of cooperation from individuals served. Describe proactive strategies you would employ, such as continual training, seeking guidance from colleagues, or implementing adaptive communication techniques to address these hurdles successfully.

Discuss your commitment to lifelong learning through attending workshops, seeking supervision, and engaging in professional organizations. Share specific instances that emphasize how you’ve applied new skills or knowledge to your work, demonstrating your dedication to enhancing your practice and delivering quality care.

Describe your strategies for fostering a safe environment, which may include establishing clear expectations, utilizing safety protocols, and nurturing open communication. Discuss how you promote a culture of trust and respect among individuals served and within the treatment team.

Emphasize your knowledge of relevant legal and ethical standards, such as the Minnesota Data Practices Act and compliance with DHS regulations. Discuss how you stay informed on updates or best practices and the importance of consistently applying these principles in your daily role.

Share your passion for supporting individuals with mental health challenges and how it aligns with RADIAS Health's values. Discuss the significance of the collaborative approach with Catholic Charities staff and your desire to contribute positively to the community. Show enthusiasm for the role, expressing how your background and skills make you a perfect fit.