Responsibilities Program Director of Behavioral Health (LISW or RN) - Ashtabula, OHHorizon Health Corporation is seeking a
Program Director of Behavioral Health (LISW or RN) to oversee the
Behavioral Health Program Ashtabula Regional Medical Center in
Ashtabula, OH. The
unit has a total of 17 beds for both adults and geriatric patients. The
Behavioral Health Director provides strategic, clinical, and operational leadership for behavioral health services across the organization. This role ensures the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based behavioral health care that is compliant with regulatory standards, financially sustainable, and aligned with organizational goals. The Director is responsible for program development, staff leadership, quality outcomes, and integration of behavioral health services within multidisciplinary care models.
The
Behavioral Health Director is responsible for the maintenance of the Horizon Health/Client hospital contractual relationship(s) and in coordination with the client, the overall administration of patient care for the Program. Included in these responsibilities are: 1) the development and maintenance of a high-quality treatment program; 2) the development and implementation of a comprehensive community relations program; 3) strategic planning, program administration, and development; and 4) He/she contributes to the program nursing and hospital through commitment to nursing goals and the supervision of clinical staff.
Responsibilities:- Strong knowledge of behavioral health clinical standards and best practices
- In-depth understanding of healthcare regulations, accreditation, and reimbursement models
- Ability to evaluate clinical quality and implement performance improvement initiatives
- Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop high-performing teams
- Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Resilient, adaptable, and mission-driven leadership style
- Ability to manage stress appropriately and channels concerns appropriately
- Ability to build effective relationships with physicians, nurses, therapists, executives, and community partners
- Skilled at conflict resolution and staff engagement
- Ability to analyze data, interpret trends, and develop actionable strategies
- Experience using metrics to improve clinical, financial, and operational outcomes
- High ethical standards and commitment to patient-centered care
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Performs other duties as assigned/required by this position.
Clinical & Program Leadership- Provide clinical oversight for behavioral health programs, ensuring patient safety, quality outcomes, and evidence-based practices
- Develop, implement, and evaluate behavioral health services, programs, and treatment models
- In coordination with the Hospital, Ensures compliance with federal, state, and accrediting agency regulations (e.g., CMS, Joint Commission, state licensing agencies)
- Collaborate with medical, nursing, and ancillary leadership to integrate behavioral health services across care settings
- Directs departmental staff involved in multidisciplinary teams to address process improvements involving patients, employees, other customers or teams appropriately
- Defines the philosophy, goals and objectives of the treatment program under the direction of hospital administration, Horizon's clinical and operations staff and in conjunction with the Medical Director
- Works with divisional and national support staff to ensure that the client hospital realizes maximum value from Horizon services
Operational & Administrative Management- Oversee day-to-day operations of behavioral health departments, including inpatient, outpatient, and/or community-based services
- Develop and manage departmental budgets, including staffing models and resource allocation
- Analyze performance metrics, patient outcomes, and utilization data to drive continuous improvement
- Lead initiatives related to access to care, patient flow, and care coordination
Staff Leadership & Development- Recruit, hire, mentor, and evaluate behavioral health clinical and support staff
- Promote a culture of professional growth, accountability, and interdisciplinary collaboration
- Ensure appropriate staffing levels, competencies, and licensure requirements are maintained
- Support staff education, training, and competency validation
Quality, Safety & Compliance- Lead quality improvement initiatives focused on patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience
- Respond to regulatory reviews, audits, and corrective action plans
- Ensure compliance with ethical standards, patient rights, and confidentiality requirements
Strategic Planning & Community Engagement- Participate in organizational strategic planning related to behavioral health services
- Identify opportunities for service expansion, partnerships, and program innovation
- Represent the organization in community, professional, and regulatory settings as appropriate.
Benefit Highlights: - Competitive Compensation
- Excellent Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Drug Plan
- 401(K) with company match and discounted stock plan
- Long and Short-term Disability
- Flexible Spending Accounts; Healthcare Savings Account
- Life Insurance
- Career development opportunities within the company
- Tuition Assistance
- Rewarding work environment - Enjoy going to work everyday!
About Ashtabula, Ohio:Ashtabula, Ohio, is a lakeside destination that blends maritime history, outdoor adventure, and "Ohio Wine Country" charm. Historic Bridge Street: This walkable district in the Ashtabula Harbor is a focal point for the city. Ashtabula County is home to 19 covered bridges, including the longest in the United States (the Smolen-Gulf Bridge) and the unique "bridge on top of a bridge" at the Smolen-Gulf/Riverview crossing. They have great Outdoor Recreation activities Lake Erie Access, World-Class Fishing, Scenic River Adventures. It is an easy trip from major cities, located about 55 minutes from Cleveland, making it a viable option for weekend getaways or commuters seeking a slower pace of life.
For more information on this position, email
Oscar Hernandez, Horizon Health Corporation, Senior Executive Recruiter at
[email protected] Qualifications - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) required.
- Active RN license or Licensed Independent Social Worker LISW in the state of Ohio.
- Master's Degree preferred
- Must have 5 to 8+ years of related work experience
- American Heart Association issued BLS and ACLS required
- CPR Certification
