The Mental Health Specialist/Safety position is within UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital’s Center for Autism and Developmental Disorders (CADD) inpatient unit. The CADD Inpatient Program follows a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and treatment of individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and co-occurring mental health conditions. 

The Mental Health Specialist/Safety will be responsible for assisting in the development and maintenance of a therapeutic environment for patients experiencing emotional disturbance, they will also assist with the specialized patient care needs of each individual patient using principles of adult development and knowledge of psychopathology. 

Responsibilities:

Patient Care

Follow policies, procedures, and standards of care. Build supportive relationships with patients. Align with Behavioral Health Center philosophy. Recognize patient dysfunction impacts. Develop and implement patient care plans. Assist with daily personal hygiene tasks. Assess social and emotional needs as a team member. Understand patients within their family context. Plan and engage in educational and recreational activities.

Safety and Security

Conduct safety rounds and monitor the environment. Assist in physical restraints and maintain safety. Lead debriefing sessions post-crisis. Monitor and document patient behavior changes. Engage patients in safety activities. Assist with Mental Health Hearings and admissions. Ensure safe visiting hours and environment. Report unsafe conditions and respond to emergencies. Provide safety training and investigate incidents.