Behavioral Health Outreach Specialist

Behavioral Health Outreach Specialist - Decatur, Illinois
Full-Time | Every Other Friday Off (Paid Wellness Day)

Heritage Behavioral Health Center is seeking a mission-driven Behavioral Health Outreach Specialist to join our expanding community-based team. In this role, you will provide person-centered outreach, early intervention, and supportive services to adolescents and adults experiencing high-risk substance use, severe mental health symptoms, and individuals presenting with first-episode psychosis.

This position meets clients where they are-in homes, community settings, hospitals, shelters, and other natural environments-to promote stability, independence, and meaningful recovery.

* Provide individualized, recovery-focused outreach in community settings, including to individuals disengaged from services.
* Assist clients with developing daily living skills, symptom management strategies, and community integration skills.
* Provide early intervention and support for individuals experiencing first-episode psychosis.
* Collaborate with social service agencies, healthcare providers, crisis teams, and community partners.
* Support clients in navigating benefits, housing, transportation, and employment-related services.
* Complete accurate, timely documentation in compliance with agency and regulatory standards.
* Monitor progress and adjust interventions based on client needs and goals.
* Provide crisis response, de-escalation, and safety planning in the community.
* Advocate for client needs while promoting empowerment and self-determination.

* Understanding of substance use disorders, harm reduction, recovery principles, and community-based models of care.
* Familiarity with symptoms associated with severe mental illness, including psychosis and co-occurring disorders.
* Knowledge of local social service systems, healthcare networks, and benefits programs.

* Strong communication and interpersonal skills with diverse populations.
* Ability to build trust, engage clients, and maintain professional boundaries.
* Excellent time management and organizational skills.
* Skills in crisis intervention, de-escalation, and effective problem-solving.

* Work independently in community settings with consistent accountability.
* Adapt to changing client needs and dynamic environments.
* Use technology for documentation and communication.
* Demonstrate cultural competence and sensitivity to individual differences.

* High School Diploma or equivalent plus 5 years of supervised mental health or social service experience
* Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, education, or human services preferred
* Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) credential through IAODAPCA
* Minimum age of 21
* Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance

* High School + 5 Years Experience: $23.00/hour + Every Other Friday Paid Off
* Bachelor's Degree: $25.00/hour + Every Other Friday Paid Off

Full-Time - Every other Friday off (paid wellness day)

Heritage is a mission-driven Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) serving individuals across a multi-county region in Central Illinois. We believe all staff-regardless of role-directly contribute to high-quality, person-centered care.

* Collaborative, supportive, mission-driven culture
* Every other Friday off - paid wellness days
* Competitive salaries aligned with state and national benchmarks
* Loan forgiveness eligibility through NHSC

* Generous vacation, sick, personal, and holiday leave

* Every other Friday off (paid)
* Fitness reimbursement
* Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

* Health, dental, and vision
* Flexible Spending Accounts (healthcare & dependent care)
* Additional life insurance options
* Substantial agency contributions toward health insurance premiums

* 401(k) and Roth options

* Tuition assistance
* Continuing education opportunities

* Eligible through the National Health Service Corps