Utilization Reviewer - Behavioral Health

$78,000 - $87,000/Yr

El Paso County - Colorado Springs, CO

Full-time - Mid Level

Colorado Springs, CO

Waste Management and Remediation Services

About the position

The Utilization Reviewer for Behavioral Health is responsible for overseeing services, support, and placement for clients in congregate care settings, particularly focusing on youth in the juvenile justice system and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This role involves examining cases from a behavioral health perspective, providing recommendations, and ensuring compliance with established processes to maintain the best care for these populations. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including caseworkers and state departments, to develop and maintain structured processes for youth at risk of high levels of placement.

Responsibilities

• Examine cases from a behavioral health perspective and provide consultation and recommendations.
• Identify whether the Department of Human Services (DHS) should take custody of an individual.
• Develop and maintain structured processes regarding youth in or at risk of high levels of placement.
• Create procedures and forms to access available resources for youth in high levels of care.
• Ensure adherence and compliance to established processes and maintain appropriate documentation.
• Review and evaluate complex cases to ensure adherence to defined processes and practices.
• Provide recommendations to streamline processes and procedures.
• Work closely with Caseworkers and County Attorney staff regarding complex cases of individuals with IDD.
• Develop internal review procedures and conduct periodic reviews for fidelity to established processes.
• Train DHS and County Attorney staff on established processes for youth in or at risk of high levels of placement.
• Assist in planning, attending, and documenting state training as needed.
• Consult and collaborate with DHS staff to assist with family-centered treatment plans.
• Interview clients/families and attend relevant meetings for case staffing.
• Assist with discharge planning and coordinate with providers for potential permanency options.
• Attend consultations and staffings for congregate care placements and coordinate site visits.
• Work with Child Placement and Consulting Team to identify appropriate placements for clients.
• Update the parent guide or handbook regarding resources for high-needs youth.
• Identify funding sources and eligibility criteria for individuals with IDD and mental health issues.
• Build relationships and coordinate care with congregate care placement providers.
• Review and summarize laws and statutes applicable to serving youth in high levels of placement.
• Oversee and participate in administrative group supervision and report outcomes to senior leadership.
• Conduct performance evaluations and motivate employees to achieve peak productivity.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher related to child welfare social caseworker responsibilities.
• Two years of behavioral health experience in therapy, counseling, or mental health.
• Experience working with individuals with IDD, mental health issues, and problematic adolescent behaviors.

Nice-to-haves

• Master's degree in social work or a human behavioral science field with relevant coursework in child welfare.
• Experience with Colorado TRAILS database.
• Professional clinical therapeutic license preferred, such as LCSW or LPC.

Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule available after probationary period.
• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance.