POSITION SUMMARY
The Clinical Director of Inpatient and Residential Units provides strategic leadership and oversight for all inpatient, sub-acute, and residential behavioral health services at Polara Health. This role is accountable for ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care across multiple levels of care while maintaining compliance with state, federal, and accreditation standards. The Director leads program development, manages resources, and partners with internal and external stakeholders to deliver innovative, effective, and integrated services. This position actively contributes to organizational strategy and decision-making as a member of the senior leadership team.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
• Provide overall leadership, vision, and strategic direction for inpatient, sub-acute, and residential clinical services.
• Oversee day-to-day operations of inpatient and residential programs, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality service delivery.
• Direct program development and expansion, implementing innovative models of care across inpatient and residential settings.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory and accreditation standards, including Joint Commission and Title 36 requirements.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams-including physicians, nurses, behavioral health professionals, and support staff-to coordinate care and improve outcomes.
• Partner with Finance and Operations leadership to develop, manage, and monitor departmental budgets and resource allocation.
• Lead quality improvement initiatives and use data-driven approaches to evaluate and improve clinical outcomes.
• Recruit, develop, and retain high-performing staff; establish succession planning and professional development opportunities.
• Serve as the primary liaison with hospitals, community partners, and regulatory agencies regarding inpatient and residential care.
• Actively participate as a member of the senior leadership team, contributing to organizational strategy, cross-department collaboration, and decision-making.
• Represent inpatient and residential programs at board, community, and stakeholder meetings as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS
Master's degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, Nursing, or a related field.
Current independent licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or equivalent in Arizona.
Minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership experience in behavioral health settings, with at least 3 years overseeing inpatient or residential programs.
Demonstrated success in program development, budget management, and regulatory compliance.
Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to engage effectively with staff, community partners, and regulatory bodies.
Must be able to provide or obtain an AZDPS Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card.
We Offer the Following Benefits to Full Time Employees:
Medical * Dental * Vision * Short and Long Term Disability * Life Insurance * Health Savings Account * Flexible Spending Account * Employee Assistance Program * 401(k) * Up to 3 Weeks of Paid Time Off * 10 Paid Holidays per Year * Shift Pay (for select inpatient and residential positions) *
