Position Summary South County Mental Health Center, Inc. is seeking a knowledgeable and compassionate Intake & Evaluation Screener (I&E Screener) to support diversion, linkage, and care coordination services for individuals involved in criminal justice and behavioral health systems. This role focuses on helping individuals access the most appropriate level of mental health care, reducing unnecessary state hospital admissions, and coordinating transitions back into the community. The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, forensic mental health experience, and the ability to collaborate with multiple community stakeholders.
About Us South County Mental Health Center, Inc. is a private, non-profit, Joint Commission-accredited behavioral healthcare provider serving Southeast Palm Beach County. We are dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality mental health services to individuals and families in our community.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or related field
Minimum three (3) years of experience in a mental health setting
At least one (1) year of court or forensic-related experience
Working knowledge of Florida Statutes 916 and 394
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Basic computer proficiency including documentation and correspondence
Preferred Qualifications:
Master’s degree in Human Services or related field
Experience working with mentally ill offenders involved in the criminal justice system
Certified Criminal Justice Specialist or Forensic Counselor through ACCFC or NAFC
Experience collaborating with courts, hospitals, and community agencies
Duties and Responsibilities Diversion & Community Placement Coordination
Assist in diverting individuals awaiting admission to State Mental Health Treatment Facilities (SMHTFs) to the most appropriate community setting
Evaluate client needs and identify alternatives to hospitalization when clinically appropriate
Coordinate community resources and treatment options for eligible individuals
Support successful transitions from state facilities back into community care
Criminal Justice & Court Collaboration
Coordinate with the State Attorney’s Office and Public Defender’s Office regarding client cases
Attend Mental Health Court proceedings as needed
Participate in I&E team meetings and weekly case review meetings
Provide updates and recommendations to stakeholders involved in client care
Intake, Linkage & Transitional Services
Gather available information related to charges, mental health history, and treatment needs
Coordinate discharge calls with hospitals and partnering agencies
Complete referrals for intake, medication clinic, housing, and outpatient services
Facilitate face-to-face meetings and hospital visits as needed
Process transitional vouchers and related service authorizations
Documentation & Reporting
Maintain timely and accurate client records
Prepare letters addressed to the court and required case correspondence
Complete monthly reports and program documentation
Ensure compliance with agency, state, and regulatory requirements
Other Duties
Perform other assignments and delegated responsibilities as directed by supervisor
Core Competencies
Strong understanding of forensic mental health systems
Knowledge of severe and persistent mental illness populations
Ability to navigate criminal justice and behavioral health systems
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong case coordination and problem-solving abilities
Professional judgment and confidentiality
Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Physical Demands
Primarily sedentary work with frequent standing and walking
Ability to use computers, phones, and office equipment
May require travel to courts, hospitals, or community agencies
Working Conditions
Office, court, hospital, and community-based settings
Frequent interaction with behavioral health clients and justice system stakeholders
Standard business hours with occasional schedule flexibility based on court or discharge needs
Performance Standards Performance will be evaluated based on:
Successful diversion and linkage outcomes
Timeliness and accuracy of documentation
Effective coordination with courts and community partners
Client engagement and continuity of care
Compliance with policies and procedures
Schedule & Work Details Per-Diem Position Location: In-person (Belle Glade, FL) Pay: $20/hour for bachelor's, $25/hour for master's