Job Description

of Functions: Provides senior-level clinical, operational, and administrative leadership for the Public Defender’s Office Mental Health Engagement Team by directing and supervising the daily case management and therapeutic educational programming for clients served by the Vickie Rice Mental Health Division in compliance with all applicable laws, policies, procedures, and professional standards. Oversees staff performance, Mental Health Engagement Team operations, and multidisciplinary collaboration to support assessments, crisis intervention, discharge planning, and coordinated service delivery that promotes client stability, healthy living, continuity of care, and successful community reintegration. Manages complex program functions including successful clinician-attorney collaboration and interagency partnerships to expand access to behavioral health resources and reduce service gaps for justice-involved individuals. Directs data management, reporting, grant compliance, budgeting support, and quality assurance activities to strengthen program effectiveness, ensure fiscal and regulatory accountability, and advance continuous improvement in justice system outcomes for clients with behavioral health needs.

Management Scope: Supervises Social Workers and Case Workers.

1. Supervises, mentors, and provides advanced clinical and operational oversight to Social Workers, Case Workers, and support staff by directing, monitoring, and evaluating daily program operations to ensure compliance with applicable laws, professional standards, and organizational policies and procedures. Collaborates with Social Workers and Case Workers in the assessment and interview of individuals and families, provides crisis intervention and case consultation in complex or high-risk situations, and supports clients in understanding the clinical, legal, and social implications of their mental health circumstances while promoting stability, continuity of care, and informed decision-making.

2. Organizes and supports quarterly meetings to review data, assess compliance, and align program operations with strategic goals. Conducts Behavioral Health awareness training for attorneys supported by the Mental Health Division and for county leadership group to advance our reputation for providing the highest level of behavioral health engagement services and holistic representation in public defense.

3. Coordinates and manages Mental Health Engagement Team operations by prioritizing cases based on clinical acuity, statutory requirements, and court timelines, while ensuring all parties remain fully informed of scheduling updates and procedural expectations. Maintains compliance with mandated time standards and applicable mental health statutes by integrating treatment considerations into program planning and supporting timely access to evaluations, competency services, and therapeutic interventions. Oversees complex administrative operations that support court-based mental health programs, proactively resolves sensitive issues, addresses inquiries, and ensures continuity of care for justice-involved individuals with behavioral health needs.

4. Provides guidance on discharge planning by collaborating with multidisciplinary teams including attorneys, clinicians, community providers, and supervision agencies, to develop individualized transition plans that support client stability and continuity of care. Conducts needs assessments to identify appropriate post-discharge supports such as outpatient mental health treatment, medication management, housing resources, employment services, and substance use programs, and ensures plans are responsive to clinical recommendations and risk factors.

5. Assists in the development, administration, and ongoing monitoring of program budgets and grant funding to ensure fiscal accountability, regulatory compliance, and the appropriate allocation of resources in support of mental health services. Conducts audits of casework documentation and client records to verify compliance with applicable laws, confidentiality requirements, policies, and procedures, and to ensure services are delivered in accordance with grant and program standards. Coordinates vendor payments, reviews expenditures for allowability and alignment with grant conditions, and ensures the accurate and timely preparation and submission of required quarterly and monthly financial and programmatic reports.

6. Maintains comprehensive records and reporting systems as required under grant agreements, utilizing electronic databases, case management software, and spreadsheets to track referrals, services provided, outcomes, and performance metrics. Compiles and submits monthly statistics, including the volume of referrals received and the types of assistance delivered, to support program evaluation and continuous improvement.

7. Coordinates referrals and facilitates warm handoffs to community-based providers to minimize service gaps and reduce the likelihood of recidivism or psychiatric decompensation. Educates clients and, when appropriate, family members on available resources, treatment expectations, and compliance requirements to encourage engagement and long-term recovery. Monitors discharge readiness, verifies required documentation is complete, and ensures all transitions comply with applicable laws, court directives, and organizational policies while supporting successful reintegration into the community.

8. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education, Experience and Training:
Education and experience equivalent to a Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Psychology, Social Work, Behavioral Sciences, or in a job related field of study. Three (3) years of professional work-related experience including two (2) years of supervisory experience. Independently licensed as a Licensed Social Worker (LMSW) in the State of Texas preferred.

Special Requirements/Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Must possess a valid Texas Driver’s License, with a good driving record. Must pass an extensive background investigation.

Knowledge of standard software applications. Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing, and establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, departments, and the general public. Mandatory drug testing prior to employment and will be subject to random, unannounced drug and/or alcohol testing during employment.

Physical/Environmental Requirements:
Standard office environment. Must be able to visit various off-site locations.