Masters level Intake Clinician
The Intake Clinician plays a vital role in the initial assessment and onboarding process for individuals seeking behavioral health and/or substance use services at BestLife's Outpatient Emotional Health & Wellness Center. The Clinician conducts comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments, completes diagnostic impressions, and supports new clients—whether self-referred, court-mandated, or participating in the Massachusetts Impaired Driving (MID) program.This role requires strong clinical assessment and diagnostic skills across a wide range of presentations and age groups, from children to older adults. The Intake Clinician also helps orient clients to the clinic, facilitates appropriate referrals for ongoing services, and works collaboratively with clinical and administrative teams to ensure a smooth and timely transition into care.Payrate: $57,000 - $63,000 depending on licensureEssential Job ResponsibilitiesConduct a Massachusetts Standardized Biopsychosocial Assessment during the first session, including necessary addendumsAdminister and complete evidence-based screening tools, including but not limited to CANS, PHQ-9, ASUDS, TB screening, and nicotine/health risk assessmentsComplete court-related evaluations and treatment recommendation letters, when applicableEnsure completion of all intake documentation, including authorizations, consents, enrollment forms, and service agreementsSubmit all clinical and administrative documentation in accordance with agency and regulatory standards and deadlinesCoordinate with the Billing Department regarding insurance verification and payment arrangementsParticipate as a member of a multi-disciplinary treatment team, ensuring coordinated and integrated care planningActively engage in licensing and accreditation processes and agency quality improvement initiativesServe as a liaison with community partners, including courts, state agencies, treatment providers, and referral sourcesPursue continuing education and professional development through trainings, conferences, and task force involvementPromote and model MHA's mission, values, and guiding principles in all internal and external interactionsPerform other related duties as assigned by the Clinic Director and/or Clinical SupervisorAbout BestLife - Emotional Health & WellnessThe BestLife Emotional Health & Wellness Center provides compassionate, person-centered care for individuals, families, and couples facing mental health and substance use challenges. Using evidence-based approaches, our team supports both short-term needs and long-term recovery through services such as assessments, individual, group, family, and couples therapy, substance use and co-occurring disorder treatment, medication management, case coordination, and recovery support. Care is delivered by licensed clinicians and overseen by a board-certified psychiatrist, ensuring high-quality, supportive treatment every step of the way.Equal Opportunity StatementThe Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.RequirementsRequired Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesValid driver's license, reliable transportation, sufficient insurance, and clean driving recordAbility to work independently and as part of a collaborative teamStrong time management, prioritization, and organizational skillsExcellent communication (verbal and written) and interpersonal abilitiesAdaptability to meet changing participant and program needsWarm, positive, and respectful approach with individuals in recoveryEffective under pressure, including in crisis situationsFamiliarity with local community-based resources and recovery networksMust be at least 21 years of ageQualificationsMaster's Degree in a behavioral health or addiction-related field is requiredIndependent licensure (LICSW, LMHC, LMFT, LADC-I) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts preferred, or license-eligible within 6 monthsExperience working with diverse populations and clinical presentations across the lifespanStrong clinical assessment, diagnostic, and documentation skillsAbility to work collaboratively with internal teams and community-based organizationsBilingual in Spanish and English strongly preferred; additional compensation available for bilingual candidatesBenefitsHealth Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)Long Term Disability