Behavioral Health Program Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In our modern society, the emphasis on behavioral health has never been more significant.

As mental health awareness grows, so does the demand for proficient professionals who can develop, oversee, and enhance our behavioral health programs.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a behavioral health program coordinator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the crux of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of behavioral health coordination,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable behavioral health program coordinator job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Behavioral Health Program Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities

Behavioral Health Program Coordinators are responsible for the development, implementation, and management of behavioral health programs that provide mental health support and counseling services to individuals.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Design, implement and oversee behavioral health programs based on the needs of the population served
• Coordinate and manage program activities, ensuring compliance with regulations and guidelines
• Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness, implementing necessary changes to enhance outcomes
• Work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and case managers
• Provide supervision, training, and guidance to program staff
• Develop and maintain relationships with community agencies and other stakeholders to enhance program services
• Ensure program adheres to best practices and stays updated with the latest research in the field of behavioral health
• Manage the program budget, ensuring resources are allocated appropriately
• Prepare program reports and maintain documentation for auditing and review purposes
• Address any patient grievances or complaints regarding the program

 

Behavioral Health Program Coordinator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Behavioral Health Program Coordinator to join our team.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for managing the daily operations of our behavioral health program, coordinating staff, monitoring program budgets, and ensuring the highest quality of care is provided to our clients.

This role requires a deep understanding of behavioral health services, excellent communication skills, and a passion for helping others.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the behavioral health program
• Coordinate activities of program staff and ensure all tasks are performed efficiently
• Develop and implement program policies and procedures
• Ensure the program complies with all federal, state, and local regulations
• Monitor program budgets and maintain financial records
• Facilitate regular meetings with staff and external stakeholders
• Conduct regular program evaluations to identify areas of improvement
• Work closely with clinicians to develop treatment plans and monitor client progress
• Provide crisis intervention and referrals when necessary
• Participate in community outreach activities to promote the program

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling or a related field required. Master’s degree preferred
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in behavioral health or mental health services
• Experience in program coordination or management
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills
• Strong knowledge of behavioral health regulations and procedures
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and medical software
• Certified in First Aid and CPR

 

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Employee assistance program

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Behavioral Health Program Coordinator
• Work Environment: Office setting within a healthcare facility. Some travel may be required for community outreach events or trainings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Behavioral Health Services.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Behavioral Health Program Coordinator Do?

Behavioral Health Program Coordinators typically work in healthcare facilities, community organizations or government agencies.

They may also serve as consultants for private companies or educational institutions.

Their role is to develop, implement, and oversee behavioral health programs.

They work closely with mental health professionals, social workers, medical staff, and administrators to ensure the program provides comprehensive and effective mental health care.

They are responsible for managing budgets, facilitating staff training, evaluating program effectiveness, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

They also play a critical role in policy development, as they help to shape policies that affect the delivery of mental health services.

Behavioral Health Program Coordinators often serve as the link between program staff and upper management, effectively communicating needs and concerns in both directions.

They may also be involved in community outreach, educating the public about mental health issues and available services.

Their ultimate goal is to improve mental health outcomes for individuals and communities by providing high-quality, accessible, and culturally competent mental health services.

 

Behavioral Health Program Coordinator Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Behavioral Health Program Coordinator should possess the following qualifications and skills that align with their job role:

• Strong knowledge of behavioral health practices, theories, and methods to effectively coordinate and manage the program.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with clients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.
• Excellent communication skills for articulating program objectives, methods, and outcomes to various stakeholders, including clients, caregivers, and health professionals.
• Strong organizational and time management skills to efficiently manage and coordinate program activities, schedules, and resources.
• Problem-solving abilities to identify challenges within the program and generate effective solutions.
• Leadership skills to guide, motivate and manage the team of health care professionals.
• Experience in implementing and evaluating behavioral health programs, with the ability to use data to make informed decisions.
• Knowledge of and compliance with behavioral health regulatory requirements and ethical guidelines.
• Proficiency in using health information systems and applications for data recording, reporting, and communication.

 

Behavioral Health Program Coordinator Experience Requirements

Behavioral Health Program Coordinators are generally expected to possess a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or a related field, though a Master’s degree is often preferred by employers.

Academic training provides the theoretical knowledge needed for the role, but practical experience is also crucial.

For entry-level roles, candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience working in a behavioral health setting, often through internships or part-time roles.

This could include roles like Behavioral Health Assistant, Case Manager, or Counselor, which provide a foundational understanding of behavioral health programs and practices.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are typically expected to have developed their skills and knowledge within the behavioral health field.

They may have held roles such as Behavioral Health Specialist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, or Therapist.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are often considered for leadership roles within the behavioral health field, as they likely have significant experience managing programs and coordinating services.

They may have held supervisory or managerial roles, overseeing teams and implementing behavioral health programs.

In all cases, experience with specific populations, such as those with mental health disorders, substance use disorders, or other behavioral health issues is highly valued.

Familiarity with relevant laws and regulations, as well as experience coordinating with healthcare providers and community resources, is also typically required.

 

Behavioral Health Program Coordinator Education and Training Requirements

Behavioral Health Program Coordinators typically have a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field.

They also need a thorough understanding of mental health issues, addiction, and the principles of counseling.

Experience working in a healthcare or social work setting, particularly in mental health or addiction recovery, can also be beneficial.

Many positions require a master’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling or a related field, especially for roles that require clinical supervision or program development.

Certain positions may also require specific certifications or licenses, such as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), or Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC).

In addition to formal education and certifications, strong interpersonal and communication skills, an understanding of program management, and a commitment to continuing education and staying informed about the latest research and trends in behavioral health are also important.

 

Behavioral Health Program Coordinator Salary Expectations

A Behavioral Health Program Coordinator typically earns an average salary of $58,312 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary may vary depending on factors like the coordinator’s level of experience, educational qualifications, the size and type of their employer, and the geographical location of the job.

 

Behavioral Health Program Coordinator Job Description FAQs

What are the key responsibilities of a Behavioral Health Program Coordinator?

The key responsibilities of a Behavioral Health Program Coordinator include developing, coordinating, and supervising various behavioral health programs.

They are responsible for creating program policies, procedures, and guidelines, and ensuring that these meet the standards set by regulatory bodies.

They also evaluate program effectiveness, manage program budgets, liaise with other departments, and facilitate training of staff members.

 

What skills does a Behavioral Health Program Coordinator need?

A Behavioral Health Program Coordinator should have excellent leadership and organizational skills.

They should be adept in managing and supervising various types of programs.

Strong communication skills are necessary to interact effectively with staff, patients, and other stakeholders.

Knowledge of behavioral health practices and principles, as well as familiarity with regulatory standards in healthcare, are essential.

They should also have problem-solving abilities and be able to work well under pressure.

 

What type of education is required for a Behavioral Health Program Coordinator?

A Behavioral Health Program Coordinator typically requires a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, nursing, or a related field.

Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree.

They should also have several years of experience working in behavioral health, mental health, or a related area.

Certifications in behavioral health and program management can be beneficial.

 

What should I look for in a Behavioral Health Program Coordinator’s resume?

Look for evidence of a solid educational background in a relevant field and experience in managing behavioral health programs.

Check for any certifications related to behavioral health or program management.

Key skills to look out for include leadership, organization, communication, and knowledge of behavioral health practices and principles.

Also, check for the candidate’s ability to create and implement policies, procedures, and guidelines.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Behavioral Health Program Coordinator?

Hiring a Behavioral Health Program Coordinator can be challenging due to the specific skills, experience, and qualifications required for the role.

The role requires a unique combination of clinical knowledge and administrative skills.

Therefore, finding a suitable candidate who is both capable of managing programs and has a strong understanding of behavioral health can be difficult.

 

Conclusion

So, there we have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true essence of being a Behavioral Health Program Coordinator.

And you know what?

It’s not just about managing programs.

It’s about shaping the future of mental health care, one program at a time.

With our go-to Behavioral Health Program Coordinator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the plunge.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously crafted listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Each program you coordinate contributes to the larger picture.

Let’s shape the future of mental health care. Together.

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