Job Description
Ascend Healthcare is committed to providing fully integrated, quality psychiatric and behavioral health services in a compassionate, convenient, and affordable manner. We work with external partners to provide services to patients across the country through integrated psychiatric medication management, substance use disorder treatment, counseling services, peer support and care coordination for seamless patient care. We believe in a “no wrong door” treatment model which finds ways to say “yes” to any patient referral rather than a multitude of exclusionary criteria found elsewhere. This approach reflects our values of improved patient and clinician experience, better outcomes, and lower costs.
The Ascend Story
Founded to transform mental health care access, Ascend Healthcare delivers integrated psychiatric and behavioral health solutions with a commitment to equity, compassion, and operational excellence.We partner directly with health centers to build fully integrated, sustainable behavioral health programs—bringing deep clinical expertise, operational support, and long-term stability.
Our work environment fosters:
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Patient-First Mindset
- Work from home opportunities
- Career Growth and Professional Development Training
Why Ascend?
You’ll be joining a team delivering innovative, compassionate care to communities that need it most. At Ascend, your work drives real impact—and your career grows alongside it. We believe in a “no wrong door” treatment model that finds ways to say “yes” to any patient referral rather than a multitude of exclusionary criteria found elsewhere
Position Overview:
As a Behavioral Health Intake Specialist (BHT), you will provide direct patient engagement services within our partner Community Health Centers (CHCs), both virtually and in person. You will serve as a critical point of contact for patients entering care, leading the intake process and supporting the development and documentation of treatment plans.
In this role, you will help ensure seamless coordination across behavioral health, substance use, and medical services, while working closely with a multidisciplinary care team to connect patients to the appropriate level of care.
Key Areas of Ownership:
- Directly involved in the new intakes, annual follow-up, and treatment planning within the Community Health Center (CHC) model.
- Demonstrate proficiency and care coordination between psych, substance use treatment and medical integration.
- Direct support for scheduled and walk-in patients.
- Completion of validated rating scales (PHQ, ASAM, SBIRT, CSSRS, etc.) to assist in determining level of care.
- Completion of initial psychosocial intakes, initial treatment plans and updates to existing intakes and treatment plans as indicated.
- Completion of patient vitals and UDS upon intake if applicable.
- Direct involvement with multidisciplinary team including APPs (NPs and PAs) and licensed counselors.
Qualifications:
- Degree in a behavioral health related field OR
- At least 3 years’ experience in the behavioral health field OR
- Completion of a Peer Support or BHT AHCCCS compliant Training Curriculum
- Fingerprint Clearance Card (or ability to obtain)
- Proficient in electronic medical records, insurance verification and scheduling of services
Physical Requirements: This is a hybrid position that requires in-person attendance. Please be aware the below physical requirements should be considered prior to applying to the position:
- Prolonged Sitting: Ability to sit for extended periods during working hours.
- Manual Dexterity: Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity for using a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment.
- Visual Requirements: Adequate vision for reading computer screens and documents.
- Communication: Clear verbal and written communication skills for virtual meetings and correspondence.
- Hearing: Sufficient hearing ability for participating in phone calls or virtual meetings.
- Work Environment: Access to a quiet, dedicated workspace free from distractions with reliable internet connectivity.
Schedule:
- Monday- Friday, 8am-5pm AZ time.
- 3 days onsite, 2 days remote
Location:
- Goodyear, Arizona
Compensation: $48,000-$53,000
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental Insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Vision insurance
Ascend Healthcare is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances.
Ascend Healthcare participates in conducting comprehensive background checks and drug screenings for all potential employees as a contingency to gaining employment status.
