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Job Summary:

The Inpatient Behavioral Health Team Lead in conjunction with the director, provides leadership, coordination, education, and oversight for the behavior health unit. This role is responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs that support the ongoing professional development of staff in the inpatient mental health setting. This role focuses on improving clinical competence, patient care quality, safety, and compliance with standards of care for patients with acute mental health needs.

Key Responsibilities:

+ Ensure compliance with clinical standards, hospital policies, and regulatory requirements (e.g., Joint Commission, CMS).

+ Lead initiatives to improve patient safety, reduce restraint/seclusion use, and enhance care quality.

+ Collaborate with psychiatrists, social workers, and other disciplines to deliver interdisciplinary care.

+ Address staff performance, provide coaching, and participate in hiring, training, and evaluations.

+ Conduct regular audits, incident reviews, and quality improvement projects.

+ Advocate for patients' rights, trauma-informed care, and a therapeutic environment.

+ Support nursing staff on the inpatient psychiatric unit, including RNs, LPNs, and mental health technicians

+ Develop and deliver orientation and ongoing education for nursing and support staff on the inpatient psychiatric unit.

+ Support staff in implementing best practices and evidence-based interventions for patients with psychiatric disorders.

+ Evaluate clinical competencies and identify learning needs through assessments, observations, and feedback mechanisms.

+ Serve as a resource and mentor to staff on clinical, regulatory, and therapeutic matters.

+ Maintain up-to-date knowledge of mental health trends, treatment modalities, and behavioral health regulations.

+ Participate in policy development, quality improvement initiatives, and accreditation readiness.

+ Collaborate with leadership to address clinical incidents and provide targeted re-education as needed.

+ Ensure educational materials and training comply with Joint Commission standards, CMS guidelines, and state mental health laws.

Work Environment:

+ Fast-paced inpatient psychiatric hospital or unit with potential exposure to crisis situations.

+ Occasional evening or weekend training sessions may be required.

Required Skills

Skills & Competencies:

+ Strong knowledge of behavioral health conditions, psychopharmacology, and therapeutic interventions.

+ Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.

+ Ability to assess educational needs and deliver effective training across varying learning styles.

+ Skilled in handling sensitive situations with professionalism and cultural competence.

+ Proficient in using learning management systems and standard office software.

+ Strong leadership and team-building skills

+ Excellent judgment and crisis management abilities

+ Knowledge of psychiatric disorders, medications, and therapeutic approaches

+ Ability to balance administrative tasks with clinical visibility and support

+ Skilled in conflict resolution, performance improvement, and cultural competency

Required Experience

Education:

+ Bachelor’s degree in Nursing Psychology, Mental Health, Health Administration, or Social Sciences related field preferred.

Experience:

+ Minimum 3 years of clinical experience in psychiatric or mental health nursing, with at least 1 year in an acute inpatient setting.

+ Prior teaching, precepting, or staff development experience are strongly preferred.