Mental Health Program Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of a growing emphasis on mental health, the role of Mental Health Program Coordinators has become increasingly significant.
As society progresses, the need for skilled professionals who can develop, improve, and maintain mental health programs escalates.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Mental Health Program Coordinator?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the dynamics of mental health program coordination,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Mental Health Program Coordinator job description template, devised for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Mental Health Program Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities
Mental Health Program Coordinators are professionals who oversee and manage mental health programs, ensuring they provide high-quality support to individuals and communities in need.
They are responsible for planning, implementing, and monitoring programs, coordinating with staff and stakeholders, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Developing and implementing mental health programs in accordance with organizational goals
- Coordinating with other staff members, therapists, counselors, and medical professionals to ensure program success
- Providing clinical oversight and guidance to mental health professionals
- Evaluating program effectiveness and making necessary changes to improve outcomes
- Training staff on new policies, procedures, and protocols
- Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal mental health laws and regulations
- Collaborating with community organizations and stakeholders to promote mental health awareness and education
- Managing budgets and resources allocated to mental health programs
- Handling administrative tasks such as reporting, record-keeping, and documentation
- Providing crisis intervention and conflict resolution when necessary
Mental Health Program Coordinator Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dedicated Mental Health Program Coordinator to assist in the design, implementation, and oversight of our comprehensive mental health programs.
The ideal candidate will have experience in mental health care, a strong understanding of program development, and exceptional organizational and communication skills.
In this role, you will work closely with mental health professionals and administrative staff to ensure our programs effectively address the mental health needs of our clients, while aligning with our organization’s mission and standards.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement comprehensive mental health programs
- Coordinate with healthcare professionals and staff to ensure quality care
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of programs, making improvements as needed
- Ensure programs meet compliance standards and follow mental health regulations
- Manage program budgets and resources effectively
- Organize and lead training sessions for staff and volunteers
- Develop relationships with community resources and partners
- Create and distribute educational materials and resources
- Manage crisis situations and provide support to clients and families
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a Mental Health Program Coordinator or similar role
- Knowledge of mental health care practices and regulations
- Experience in program development and administration
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to handle crisis situations with sensitivity and professionalism
- Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or a related field
- Certification in Mental Health First Aid is a plus
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Continuing education opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Mental Health Program Coordinator
- Work Environment: Clinical setting with possible remote work options. Some travel may be required for community outreach and meetings.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Mental Health Services Director.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $70,000 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 Mental Health Program Coordinator Do?
Mental Health Program Coordinators typically work in healthcare facilities, community centers, or non-profit organizations focusing on mental health.
They are responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring mental health programs, ensuring that they meet the needs of the targeted population.
This involves conducting research, identifying potential gaps or areas of improvement, and proposing strategies to address these issues.
Mental Health Program Coordinators work closely with mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers, to ensure that the mental health services provided align with the objectives of the programs they manage.
They also oversee the coordination of training for staff and volunteers and may directly provide education and outreach services to increase awareness and understanding of mental health issues within the community.
In addition, they manage administrative tasks such as budgeting, report writing, and maintaining records of program activities.
They are also responsible for ensuring the program’s compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Mental Health Program Coordinators often serve as the point of contact for program participants, community partners, and funders, handling inquiries, resolving concerns, and fostering relationships.
They continuously monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the programs, adjusting and improving them as necessary to meet changing needs and improve outcomes.
Mental Health Program Coordinator Qualifications and Skills
A proficient Mental Health Program Coordinator should possess the following skills and qualifications:
- Strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with a range of stakeholders, including clients, mental health professionals, and community partners.
- Exceptional organizational and time-management skills to efficiently coordinate mental health programs, manage resources, and ensure timely delivery of services.
- Experience in mental health services, counseling, social work, or a related field to be able to understand the needs of clients and create comprehensive mental health programs.
- Problem-solving skills to identify, anticipate, and address potential issues in the program, thus ensuring smooth operation and client satisfaction.
- Ability to work in a team environment and collaborate with a diverse group of professionals to achieve common goals.
- Understanding and sensitivity towards mental health issues and stigmas, as well as commitment to promoting mental health awareness in the community.
- Strong knowledge of mental health laws and regulations to ensure that the program is compliant and adheres to all necessary standards.
- Excellent communication skills to clearly convey information to clients, their families, and other professionals, as well as to advocate for mental health awareness and education.
Mental Health Program Coordinator Experience Requirements
Entry-level candidates for the role of a Mental Health Program Coordinator usually have a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience in mental health services or a similar healthcare setting.
This experience can be gained through internships, volunteering, or part-time roles in mental health organizations or community health centers.
Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have worked in roles such as Mental Health Counselor, Social Worker, or Clinical Psychologist.
These roles provide valuable hands-on experience in mental health case management, program development, and patient counseling.
Candidates with more than 5 years of experience in the field are typically considered for senior or managerial roles in mental health program coordination.
At this level, professionals often have experience in managing teams, developing and implementing mental health programs, and liaising with other healthcare providers and stakeholders.
They may also have experience in grant writing, budget management, and data analysis related to program outcomes.
In addition, many employers prefer candidates with experience in the specific population served by their program, such as children, the elderly, substance abuse patients, or veterans.
Mental Health Program Coordinator Education and Training Requirements
Mental Health Program Coordinators typically need a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field.
Their education should include courses focused on mental health disorders, social issues, counseling techniques, and case management.
Several years of experience in mental health services are often required, with many employers preferring candidates who have experience in program management and supervisory roles.
For some positions, a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field is preferred or even required.
Additionally, certain states require Mental Health Program Coordinators to hold a licensure or certification in mental health services.
The requirements for licensure or certification vary by state but generally involve completing a certain amount of supervised experience and passing an exam.
Continued education is also important in this field, as advancements and new findings in mental health are consistently emerging.
Many Mental Health Program Coordinators choose to participate in workshops, seminars, or other training opportunities to stay updated with the latest developments.
Finally, strong interpersonal, organizational, and leadership skills are essential for this role, as it involves coordinating services, managing programs, and leading teams of mental health professionals.
Mental Health Program Coordinator Salary Expectations
The average salary for a Mental Health Program Coordinator is $52,074 (USD) per year.
The actual earnings can differ greatly depending on factors such as years of experience, level of education, the organization’s size, and the geographical location.
Mental Health Program Coordinator Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Mental Health Program Coordinator need?
Mental Health Program Coordinators need to have exceptional organizational and planning skills since they’ll be designing and implementing various mental health programs.
They should also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as they will be interacting with mental health professionals, clients, and sometimes, the clients’ families.
Knowledge about mental health conditions, treatments, and counseling techniques is also crucial.
Do Mental Health Program Coordinators need a degree?
Yes, Mental Health Program Coordinators usually need a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field.
However, many employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in mental health counseling or a related field.
They often require experience in mental health counseling, program coordination, or management.
What should you look for in a Mental Health Program Coordinator resume?
When reviewing a Mental Health Program Coordinator’s resume, look for a relevant educational background and experience in mental health counseling, programming, or related roles.
Certifications or additional training related to mental health could also be advantageous.
Evidence of strong leadership, communication skills, and the ability to work well with diverse groups of people are also important.
What qualities make a good Mental Health Program Coordinator?
A good Mental Health Program Coordinator should be empathetic, patient, and have a deep understanding of mental health issues.
They should be excellent problem-solvers and have the ability to handle stressful situations.
They should also be effective leaders and communicators, able to coordinate with different teams and individuals to ensure the success of the mental health programs.
What are the main challenges that Mental Health Program Coordinators face?
Mental Health Program Coordinators often face challenges such as securing adequate funding for programs, overcoming societal stigma associated with mental health, navigating bureaucratic hurdles for program implementation, and ensuring program reach to remote or underprivileged communities.
They also have to ensure that they stay updated with the latest research and treatment modalities in mental health.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve unraveled the intricate web of the role of a Mental Health Program Coordinator.
Surprising, isn’t it?
It’s not just about providing mental health services.
It’s about weaving a support network, one program at a time.
With our ready-to-use Mental Health Program Coordinator job description template and real-life illustrations, you’re all set to take the next step.
But why halt your progress here?
Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your key to producing meticulously designed job postings or refining your resume to the pinnacle of precision.
Remember:
Every program you coordinate is a part of a larger, life-changing journey.
Let’s embark on this journey. Together.
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