BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SPECIALIST SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND JOB REQUIREMENTS
Updated: Sep 20, 2024 - The Behavioral Health Specialist exhibits expertise in PC-based applications, notably Microsoft Office, and possesses strong communication skills essential for managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. This role requires a high level of organizational ability, advanced training in cognitive behavioral therapy, and experience in motivational interviewing, catering to the varied healthcare needs of diverse populations. The specialist is adept in interpreting standards and regulations, delivering exceptional customer service, and effectively collaborating across multiple sectors to support patients and their families.
Summary of Behavioral Health Specialist Knowledge and Qualifications on Resume
1. BA in Psychology with 2 years of Experience
- Proficiency in utilizing PC-based system applications and reporting packages, especially Microsoft Office application
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as the ability to manage multiple priorities in a rapidly changing environment
- High degree of organizational skills
- Ability to interact with group employer accounts and other stakeholders relative to behavioral health topics
- General understanding of employer-based and individual insurance products
- Post-licensure experience in any combination of behavioral health clinical, case management and/or condition management.
- Advanced training and experience in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing
- Experience working with the healthcare needs of diverse populations
- Proficiency in a second language
- Ability to collaborate within program, department, agency, and community
- Ability to interpret standards, contracts, and regulations.
- Customer service-oriented and prepared to liaise with patients, families, and other care providers.
2. BS in Behavioral Health with 4 years of Experience
- Considerable knowledge of principles, practices, and issues of behavioral healthcare
- Considerable knowledge of resources available to the client population
- Considerable knowledge of agency policies and procedures
- Knowledge of behavioral health policies and systems
- Knowledge of recovery principles and practices
- Knowledge of principles and practices of public and/or health care administration
- Knowledge of and ability to apply management principles and techniques
- Knowledge of relevant state and federal laws, statutes, and regulations, considerable interpersonal skills
- Considerable oral and written communication skills
- Ability to influence the actions of others
- Ability to negotiate, mediate, and resolve conflicts
- Ability to analyze and synthesize information
3. BA in Health Education with 3 years of Experience
- Must have experience in a clinical setting with a working knowledge of a variety of medical concerns as well as mental health and chemical dependency treatment.
- Must be Certified to practice in specific State
- Experience in discharge planning, home health or transitional care.
- Knowledge of social support systems and resources.
- Knowledge of NCQA requirements related to behavioral health conditions
- Knowledge of EPIC electronic medical records
- Experience in a behavioral healthcare setting performing clinical assessments or in a clinical treatment setting for non-nurses
- Experience in an inpatient setting and prefer a demonstrated ability to complete crisis assessment
- Licensed to perform clinical assessments to determine level of care needs and to diagnose according to the current version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual is required.
- Ability to function independently and as a member of a team in a multi-task environment.
- Must be flexible and able to handle multiple priorities, with the ability to adjust to high pressure and rapidly changing business conditions.
- Proficient in the use of computers and associated software.
Professional Skills FAQs
What are professional skills?
Professional skills are abilities that help individuals perform tasks effectively in a workplace environment. These skills include both technical competencies required for specific roles and soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem solving.
What is the difference between hard skills and soft skills?
Hard skills are technical abilities learned through education or training, such as programming, data analysis, or laboratory testing. Soft skills refer to interpersonal abilities like communication, leadership, adaptability, and teamwork.
Why are professional skills important for careers and resumes?
Professional skills help employers evaluate whether a candidate can perform job responsibilities effectively. Listing relevant skills on a resume demonstrates qualifications and helps applications pass Applicant Tracking Systems used in modern hiring processes.
What professional skills do employers look for?
Employers usually value a combination of technical expertise and transferable workplace skills. Common examples include analytical thinking, communication, teamwork, leadership, time management, adaptability, and digital literacy.
How can professionals develop professional skills?
Professionals can develop skills through continuous learning, training programs, certifications, mentorship, and practical work experience. Staying updated with industry trends also helps individuals maintain relevant and competitive skills.
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Lamwork content is developed through structured review of publicly available job postings and documented hiring trends.
Editorial operations are managed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor, with research direction and final oversight by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead. Content is periodically reviewed to reflect observable labor market changes.