UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
Specification for Class
MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST 1
UW CODE AND REPRESENTATIVE GROUP
8705 (WFSE HMC)
CLASS SERIES CONCEPT
Mental Health Specialists provide prescribed treatment to in-patients on mental health units.
BASIC FUNCTION
Provide prescribed in-patient mental health treatment, data collection and treatment planning as part of an inter-disciplinary treatment team.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Under direct supervision of the Registered Nurse in charge; provide prescribed mental health treatment in an in-patient setting.
TYPICAL WORK
Act as co-therapist with members of the inter-disciplinary team to develop treatment and discharge plans;
Provide individual counseling regarding reality testing and the problem-solving of current life situation;
Participate in group therapy and family conferences;
Assist with obtaining psycho-social history from patients, family, referral sources and community agencies;
Observe, assess and assist with physical restraint and seclusion procedures; maintain patient safety and provide physical care to patients;
Document patients physical, mental and behavioral status;
Monitor and report patient response to psychotropic medications;
Consult with mental health agencies as required regarding treatment;
Perform related duties as required.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - UW Contract Classified
Associate of Arts Degree; AND two years of experience in a mental health setting. Experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.
Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.
New Class: 10-12-73
Revise Title & Class: 1-21-83
Revise MQ: 7-2-90
CSR Class Conversion (mc): 06-01-05