OPD/ IPD Counselor

Department: Outpatient Department (OPD) / IPD Indoor Patient Department Behavioral Health Services
Reports To: Head of Department / Clinical Supervisor
Job Type: Full-Time (specifics may vary by hospital)
Location: [Hospital/Clinic Name/Location] Job Summary:
The OPD/IPD Counselor is responsible for providing high-quality counseling services to outpatients and their families, helping them navigate and manage the emotional, social, and practical challenges associated with their health conditions. This role involves comprehensive patient assessment, treatment planning, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary healthcare team to ensure holistic patient care. Key Responsibilities and Duties

• Patient Consultation and Assessment: Conduct initial evaluations and one-on-one consultations with patients to assess their emotional, psychological, and social needs.
• Treatment Planning: Develop and implement individualized treatment plans based on patient assessments, needs, and goals.
• Counseling Services: Provide individual, group, and family therapy sessions using evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help patients and families cope with stress, grief, anxiety, or depression related to their health issues.
• Education and Information: Explain medical conditions, treatment options, procedures, and associated costs to patients in a clear, easy-to-understand manner to minimize anxiety and ensure informed decision-making.
• Care Coordination and Case Management: Coordinate patient care with doctors, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care. This often involves connecting patients with resources and support services after discharge (e.g., support groups, home health care, community programs).
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential patient records and clinical documentation in compliance with regulatory standards and hospital policies.
• Crisis Intervention: Provide crisis intervention services as needed for patients experiencing acute distress or crisis situations.
• Patient Flow and Administration: Assist with administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and managing patient inquiries to ensure efficient OPD operations.
• Professional Development: Participate in case conferences, team meetings, and continuing education courses to stay current with best practices in counseling and mental health care.

Qualifications and SkillsRequired Qualifications:

• Education: Master's degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.
• Licensure: Appropriate state licensure or certification to practice as a mental health professional (e.g., Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)).
• Experience: Prior experience working in an outpatient, hospital, or community mental health setting is typically required.

Key Skills:

• Empathy and Compassion: A patient-centric approach with the ability to build rapport and demonstrate empathy towards patients and their families.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey complex information and support.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team and maintain professional relationships.
• Organizational Skills: Strong time management and organizational abilities to manage a diverse caseload and administrative duties.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to handle challenging situations and complex patient needs with professionalism and effective problem-solving skills.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems and healthcare management software.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: ₹10,636.17 - ₹34,647.02 per month