Mental Health Consultant

Under general direction of the Program Chief, Community Mental Health Services, to serve as consultant on metal health programs to public and private agencies, groups, and individuals in the community; to perform in-service training in the field of psychiatric nursing; and to do other work as required.

* Consults with public and private agency personnel regarding mental health problems with the objective of preserving mental health and achieving early detection of mental illness. * May participate in planning consultation service programs and formulating policies; plans, organizes, and conducts orientation and in-service training programs for public health nurses, personnel in industry, and students. * Provides consultation service to public health nursing and related personnel in planning and developing the mental health aspects of nursing programs; assists in the development of programs with the objectives of preserving mental health. * Assists in the training of nurses in the mental health field; coordinates with schools of nursing in developing curricula for preparation of nurses in mental health. * Interprets the role of public and mental health services to the community; assists with the evaluation of programs in research projects; advises on available community resources in the field of mental health. * Assists in the preparation of informational and educational materiel on mental health activities and programs for the department and community; assists in the preparation of materials and audio-visual aids. * Reviews published material for mental health education uses; cooperates with public and private agencies and individuals to plan, initiate, and coordinate programs affecting mental health. * Addresses meetings and may act as advisor to organizations; keeps records and prepares reports.

Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a master's degree in nursing including at least one year of training in mental health. Experience: At least four years of experience in mental health nursing, one year of which must have been in an administrative, teaching, supervisory, or consultative capacity. Knowledge: Thorough knowledge of the social and public health aspects of mental illness; considerable knowledge of the characteristics of mentally ill or neurotic individuals including neurosis, psychoses, psychopathic personalities, and other mental illnesses; considerable knowledge of various local, state and federal mental health programs; considerable knowledge of the history and trends of mental hygiene, public health, and welfare programs. Ability to: Plan consultation services and formulate policies; prepare studies and produce research material; plan, oraganize, and conduct in-service training programs; ability to deal effectively with personnel, officials, and the public; ability to speak and write effectively.

Class "C" driver's license required.