SMI Lead Case Manager at Chicanos Por La Causa – Mesa, Arizona

CPLC Centro Esperanza offers specialized services for Serious Mental Illness (SMI) populations focusing on case management and psychiatric services.
OBJECTIVE AND POSITION SUMMARY
The SMI Team Lead – Case Manager plays a dual role by providing direct case management services to adults diagnosed with Serious Mental Illness (SMI) while serving as a lead and mentor for case managers. This role assists the supervisory team in maintaining quality and consistency in care coordination, supports training of new staff, and helps resolve complex client situations. The SMI Team Lead – Case Manager models recovery-oriented, client-centered approaches that align with agency guidelines.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• None

SPECIALIZATIONS

• Strong understanding of the Arizona behavioral health system, including SMI eligibility and Title XIX/XXI

PRIMARY DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Manage a reduced caseload of adults with SMI, ensuring individualized service plans (ISPs) are developed and followed
• Performs all case management functions associated with caseload including participating in the assessment and service planning processes, including identifying the need for further or specialty evaluations
• Ensure billing and production expectations are met monthly
• Coordinate services across systems including behavioral health, primary care, housing, and legal or social supports
• Conduct home visits, community outreach, and regular client check-ins to monitor progress and assess needs
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the electronic health record (EHR), ensuring compliance with AHCCCS (Arizona Medicaid) and Title XIX standards
• Help monitor documentation quality and assist with internal audits or chart reviews as requested by the SMI Program Manager
• Rotate on-call for weekend, holiday and after hours
• Assist with caseload distribution and staff coverage during absences or high-volume periods
• Represent the team in internal and external meetings such as CFTs (Child and Family Team meetings), ARTs (Adult Recovery Team), and staff huddles when needed
• Assist team members managing high-risk or crisis-prone clients
• Collaborate with clinical staff, crisis teams or guardians to resolve complex care coordination challenges
• Model de-escalation techniques and trauma-informed approaches in the field and clinic
• Performs other duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES

Education /Background:

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in social work, Psychology, Behavioral Health or a related field
• Minimum of 2-3 years of case management experience, preferably in an SMI-designated program or behavioral health setting

Other Requirements:

• Must possess a valid Arizona driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Must be able to pass a background check
• CPR/First Aid must be maintained
• Position includes a mix of office, community and other field work
• May require travel within Maricopa County and/or other service areas
• Knowledge of recovery-oriented and trauma-informed care models
• Effective interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in documentation standards, EHRs (e.g., Cerner, NextGen), and Microsoft Office Suite