Myflfamilies
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CONSULTANT OPS - 60933472
Date: Sep 19, 2025 The State Personnel System is an E-Verify employer. For more information click on our E-Verify Website. Requisition No: 861486 Agency: Children and Families Working Title: BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CONSULTANT OPS - 60933472 Job Title: Behavioral Health Consultant – OPS– 60933472 This position is a regional position and can be housed in Tampa, Florida. The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF or Department) is the state of Florida’s social services agency. The agency oversees services for child safety, fostering, adoption, domestic violence, adult protective services, refugees, homelessness, mental health, substance abuse, childcare providers, human trafficking, and public assistance. The agency’s mission is to work in partnership with local communities to protect the vulnerable, promote strong and economically self-sufficient families, and advance personal and family recovery and resiliency. Within DCF, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health (SAMH) Program office is recognized as the single state authority for substance abuse and mental health services. The Office of SAMH is statutorily responsible for the planning, evaluation, and implementation of a comprehensive statewide system of care for the prevention, treatment, and recovery of children and adults with serious mental illnesses or substance use disorders. TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION RESPONSES TO THE QUALIFYING QUESTIONS ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE VERIFIABLE BASED ON YOUR SUBMITTED APPLICATION. THIS IS NOT A TELEWORK POSITION. CANDIDATE WILL BE REQUIRED TO WORK IN THE OFFICE. The Behavioral Health Consultant (BHC) provides clinical expertise within the child welfare system, supporting the identification, engagement, and service resources of parents/caregivers with behavioral health needs—particularly those involving substance use disorders, with a concentrated focus on opioid misuse. The BHC works directly with Child Protective Investigators (CPIs) and dependency case managers to enhance recognition of behavioral health concerns, improve family engagement, and ensure timely access to appropriate treatment and support services. Specific Duties and Responsibilities include: Consult and collaborate with CPI and dependency case managers to help frontline staff identify behavioral health disorders, particularly substance use disorders, enhance family engagement, and improve access to treatment, recovery support, and community resources. BHC actively builds relationships with investigative staff within co-located offices, providing regular education on behavioral health indicators, the effects of behavioral health conditions on parenting behavior, and engagement strategies. BHCs train investigative staff and case managers on the use and benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). Provide in-field and office-based consultation during the pre- and post-commencement phases of child protection investigations, including joint visits with CPIs, modeling effective family engagement techniques, and guidance on best practices for families affected by behavioral health issues, particularly opioid misuse. Assist CPIs in understanding how a parent’s behavioral health condition may impact caregiving and identify appropriate treatment and referral resources within the community. Collaborate with behavioral health providers and the Managing Entity (ME) to maintain current knowledge of referral processes and treatment options, helping CPIs connect families to appropriate levels of care. Track and document all cases where the BHC supports child welfare staff, including staffings, joint visits, consultations, brief assessments, and other tracking as directed, especially for substance use disorders. Participate in legal proceedings, multidisciplinary meetings, and family navigation staffings to support case progression and outcomes for children and families. Offer subject-matter expertise in the identification and care of substance-exposed newborns, including consultation on treatment options, supporting care coordination for mothers and infants, and ensuring access to early intervention and family stabilization services. May be required to perform duties beyond those outlined to meet emergent organizational or regional needs. Work extended or irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and potentially operating from outside assigned duty location. Travel throughout the state and may include overnight stays. May assist with disaster recovery efforts and participate in Critical Incident Rapid Response Team (CIRRT) case investigations as needed. Emphasis is on expertise in addressing opioid use disorders. Emergency Response In response to emergency events, the incumbent may be required to work irregular hours, extend hours, work weekends/holidays, work at locations other than official headquarters, and perform duties beyond the position description. Deploy to affected communities within 24-48 hours to promote and implement post-disaster services. Responsibilities may include assessing impact, developing a response strategy, coordinating resources, and providing information to leadership. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities required Strong working knowledge of the child welfare system, with demonstrated expertise in motivational interviewing and trauma-informed care approaches preferred. Minimum of three years of experience in treatment of substance use disorders. Understanding of how substance use and mental health conditions affect parenting capacity and child safety. Proficiency in identification and care of substance-exposed newborns is essential. Ability to respond effectively to emergency events with sound clinical judgment. Strong written communication skills to produce clear, thorough, and professional reports and presentations. Ability to evaluate barriers to treatment access and navigate complex behavioral health systems to support families. Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills with ability to collaborate with internal and external partners. Strong organizational skills to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple assignments in a dynamic environment. Minimum Qualifications Florida license in psychology, social work, mental health counseling, family and marriage therapy, or registered intern, or master’s level Certified Addiction Professional. Acceptable: LMHC, LCSW, LMFT, MCAP, Licensed Psychologist Minimum of three years of experience treating substance use disorders. Working knowledge of the child welfare and behavioral health systems and understanding of the impact of behavioral health conditions on parenting capacity and child safety. Valid Driver License Preference will be given to applicants who have: Knowledge of the child welfare system and motivational interviewing is preferred. Benefits of Working for the State of Florida: Working for the State of Florida offers a comprehensive compensation package for OPS employees, including: State Group Insurance options (health, life, dental, vision, and other options) for OPS employees expected to work 30 hours or more per week on average; Savings & Spending Accounts; 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan via VALIC. US CITIZEN REQUIREMENT
Only US citizens and lawfully authorized alien workers will be hired. SELECTIVE SERVICE SYSTEM REGISTRATION
All selected male candidates born on or after October 1, 1962 must be registered with the Selective Service System. Verification will be conducted prior to hire. For more information, visit the SSS website: http://www.sss.gov RETIREE NOTICE
If you are a retiree of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), consult FRS regarding re-employment impacts on benefits. BACKGROUND SCREENING
It is the policy that applicants must complete a State and National criminal history check and, if applicable, screening under Chapter 435 and Chapter 408, F.S. No one may begin employment until screening results are approved. The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation should notify the agency hiring authority or People First Service Center at 1-866-663-4735. The State supports a Drug-Free workplace; all employees are subject to drug testing per the Drug-Free Workplace Act. VETERANS’ PREFERENCE.
Veterans’ Preference is provided in accordance with Florida statutes. Documentation requirements apply and are described in the vacancy listing. If you experience problems applying, call the People First Service Center at 1-877-562-7287. The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center. The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace and all employees are subject to drug testing. For assistance, call People First Service Center at 1-877-562-7287, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Eastern time.
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Date: Sep 19, 2025 The State Personnel System is an E-Verify employer. For more information click on our E-Verify Website. Requisition No: 861486 Agency: Children and Families Working Title: BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CONSULTANT OPS - 60933472 Job Title: Behavioral Health Consultant – OPS– 60933472 This position is a regional position and can be housed in Tampa, Florida. The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF or Department) is the state of Florida’s social services agency. The agency oversees services for child safety, fostering, adoption, domestic violence, adult protective services, refugees, homelessness, mental health, substance abuse, childcare providers, human trafficking, and public assistance. The agency’s mission is to work in partnership with local communities to protect the vulnerable, promote strong and economically self-sufficient families, and advance personal and family recovery and resiliency. Within DCF, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health (SAMH) Program office is recognized as the single state authority for substance abuse and mental health services. The Office of SAMH is statutorily responsible for the planning, evaluation, and implementation of a comprehensive statewide system of care for the prevention, treatment, and recovery of children and adults with serious mental illnesses or substance use disorders. TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION RESPONSES TO THE QUALIFYING QUESTIONS ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE VERIFIABLE BASED ON YOUR SUBMITTED APPLICATION. THIS IS NOT A TELEWORK POSITION. CANDIDATE WILL BE REQUIRED TO WORK IN THE OFFICE. The Behavioral Health Consultant (BHC) provides clinical expertise within the child welfare system, supporting the identification, engagement, and service resources of parents/caregivers with behavioral health needs—particularly those involving substance use disorders, with a concentrated focus on opioid misuse. The BHC works directly with Child Protective Investigators (CPIs) and dependency case managers to enhance recognition of behavioral health concerns, improve family engagement, and ensure timely access to appropriate treatment and support services. Specific Duties and Responsibilities include: Consult and collaborate with CPI and dependency case managers to help frontline staff identify behavioral health disorders, particularly substance use disorders, enhance family engagement, and improve access to treatment, recovery support, and community resources. BHC actively builds relationships with investigative staff within co-located offices, providing regular education on behavioral health indicators, the effects of behavioral health conditions on parenting behavior, and engagement strategies. BHCs train investigative staff and case managers on the use and benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). Provide in-field and office-based consultation during the pre- and post-commencement phases of child protection investigations, including joint visits with CPIs, modeling effective family engagement techniques, and guidance on best practices for families affected by behavioral health issues, particularly opioid misuse. Assist CPIs in understanding how a parent’s behavioral health condition may impact caregiving and identify appropriate treatment and referral resources within the community. Collaborate with behavioral health providers and the Managing Entity (ME) to maintain current knowledge of referral processes and treatment options, helping CPIs connect families to appropriate levels of care. Track and document all cases where the BHC supports child welfare staff, including staffings, joint visits, consultations, brief assessments, and other tracking as directed, especially for substance use disorders. Participate in legal proceedings, multidisciplinary meetings, and family navigation staffings to support case progression and outcomes for children and families. Offer subject-matter expertise in the identification and care of substance-exposed newborns, including consultation on treatment options, supporting care coordination for mothers and infants, and ensuring access to early intervention and family stabilization services. May be required to perform duties beyond those outlined to meet emergent organizational or regional needs. Work extended or irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and potentially operating from outside assigned duty location. Travel throughout the state and may include overnight stays. May assist with disaster recovery efforts and participate in Critical Incident Rapid Response Team (CIRRT) case investigations as needed. Emphasis is on expertise in addressing opioid use disorders. Emergency Response In response to emergency events, the incumbent may be required to work irregular hours, extend hours, work weekends/holidays, work at locations other than official headquarters, and perform duties beyond the position description. Deploy to affected communities within 24-48 hours to promote and implement post-disaster services. Responsibilities may include assessing impact, developing a response strategy, coordinating resources, and providing information to leadership. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities required Strong working knowledge of the child welfare system, with demonstrated expertise in motivational interviewing and trauma-informed care approaches preferred. Minimum of three years of experience in treatment of substance use disorders. Understanding of how substance use and mental health conditions affect parenting capacity and child safety. Proficiency in identification and care of substance-exposed newborns is essential. Ability to respond effectively to emergency events with sound clinical judgment. Strong written communication skills to produce clear, thorough, and professional reports and presentations. Ability to evaluate barriers to treatment access and navigate complex behavioral health systems to support families. Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills with ability to collaborate with internal and external partners. Strong organizational skills to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple assignments in a dynamic environment. Minimum Qualifications Florida license in psychology, social work, mental health counseling, family and marriage therapy, or registered intern, or master’s level Certified Addiction Professional. Acceptable: LMHC, LCSW, LMFT, MCAP, Licensed Psychologist Minimum of three years of experience treating substance use disorders. Working knowledge of the child welfare and behavioral health systems and understanding of the impact of behavioral health conditions on parenting capacity and child safety. Valid Driver License Preference will be given to applicants who have: Knowledge of the child welfare system and motivational interviewing is preferred. Benefits of Working for the State of Florida: Working for the State of Florida offers a comprehensive compensation package for OPS employees, including: State Group Insurance options (health, life, dental, vision, and other options) for OPS employees expected to work 30 hours or more per week on average; Savings & Spending Accounts; 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan via VALIC. US CITIZEN REQUIREMENT
Only US citizens and lawfully authorized alien workers will be hired. SELECTIVE SERVICE SYSTEM REGISTRATION
All selected male candidates born on or after October 1, 1962 must be registered with the Selective Service System. Verification will be conducted prior to hire. For more information, visit the SSS website: http://www.sss.gov RETIREE NOTICE
If you are a retiree of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), consult FRS regarding re-employment impacts on benefits. BACKGROUND SCREENING
It is the policy that applicants must complete a State and National criminal history check and, if applicable, screening under Chapter 435 and Chapter 408, F.S. No one may begin employment until screening results are approved. The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation should notify the agency hiring authority or People First Service Center at 1-866-663-4735. The State supports a Drug-Free workplace; all employees are subject to drug testing per the Drug-Free Workplace Act. VETERANS’ PREFERENCE.
Veterans’ Preference is provided in accordance with Florida statutes. Documentation requirements apply and are described in the vacancy listing. If you experience problems applying, call the People First Service Center at 1-877-562-7287. The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center. The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace and all employees are subject to drug testing. For assistance, call People First Service Center at 1-877-562-7287, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Eastern time.
#J-18808-Ljbffr