Director Of Nursing – Behavioral Health

Director of Nursing – Behavioral Health Overview

• The Director of Nursing – Behavioral Health oversees comprehensive mental health services, ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care aligned with organizational goals.
• This role involves leading clinical operations, staffing, and resource management to optimize departmental efficiency and outcomes.
• Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to enhance patient care delivery and improve clinical outcomes.
• Ensures compliance with regulatory standards, including TJC, CMS, OSHA, HIPAA, and state requirements.
• Develops and expands behavioral health programs to meet community needs and organizational objectives.
• Provides strategic leadership to foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Reports directly to the Chief Nursing Officer, contributing to strategic planning and operational excellence.
• Offers a dynamic opportunity to lead impactful initiatives in behavioral health care.

Director of Nursing – Behavioral Health Key Responsibilities & Duties

• Provide 24-hour leadership and oversight of Behavioral Health Services, ensuring safe and effective operations.
• Direct clinical operations, including staffing, scheduling, and productivity management.
• Recruit, mentor, and evaluate nursing and behavioral health staff to build a high-performing team.
• Lead quality improvement, patient safety, and regulatory readiness initiatives to maintain excellence.
• Collaborate with physicians and interdisciplinary teams to enhance patient outcomes and care delivery.
• Develop and expand Behavioral Health programs to meet evolving community needs.
• Manage departmental budgets, strategic planning, and operational goals effectively.
• Ensure compliance with mental health laws and practice standards.

Director of Nursing – Behavioral Health Job Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) required; Master’s degree in psychiatric or mental health nursing preferred.
• Current and valid Registered Nurse Licensure is mandatory.
• Minimum of two years of management experience in Behavioral Health Care programs.
• BCLS (AHA) certification upon hire and maintained throughout employment.
• Strong knowledge of mental health laws, practice standards, and the continuum of care for behavioral health treatment.
• Excellent verbal, written, and management skills to lead effectively.
• Proven ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and drive strategic initiatives.
• Experience in quality improvement and regulatory compliance within healthcare settings.