Program Information Pre-Arraignment Screening and Intake Focus:
This role within the Proposition 47, Cohort IV initiative addresses the mental health and substance abuse needs of justice-involved individuals who face barriers to receiving evaluations while in custody due to the suspension of Medi-Cal benefits, known as the "lockout."
The position ensures that individuals receive timely pre-arraignment assessments, equipping the arraignment attorney to advocate for their release and enabling clients to access treatment immediately upon release. Students will assist in conducting these screenings, developing comprehensive evaluations of needs, recommending treatment programs, and collaborating with legal teams to support alternatives to incarceration.
Key Responsibilities: Participate in pre-arraignment screenings, intake assessments, and case planning meetings to identify alternatives to incarceration and connect clients to community-based resources.
Assist in conducting biopsychosocial assessments focused on identifying mental health and substance abuse needs, particularly for individuals eligible for mental health diversion and substance abuse treatment.
Collaborate with legal professionals to prepare comprehensive reports for court, equipping attorneys with the information needed to advocate for diversion and early release.
Assist in post-release follow-ups to ensure continuity of care, including monitoring participation in mental health and substance abuse programs and facilitating connections to wraparound services.
Document client assessments, care plans, and progress in specialized software systems to maintain up-to-date records and support the overall diversion process.
Desired Intern Characteristics:
Strong interest in criminal justice reform, mental health, and substance abuse treatment.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work with diverse populations.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for case management and report preparation.
Ability to work collaboratively with legal and healthcare professionals in a fast-paced environment.
Compassionate, client-centered approach to supporting justice-impacted individuals.
Bilingual (English/Spanish).
Special Considerations: This role requires a commitment to working with vulnerable populations who may face significant mental health and substance abuse challenges. Students will work in a fast-paced environment with tight court-mandated deadlines, requiring strong time management skills. Transportation may be required for meetings or appointments, with the possibility of using county-provided vehicles.
Interprofessional Opportunities Available for the Student:
Engage with legal professionals to understand court processes.
Engage with legal professionals to understand mental health diversion and substance abuse treatment.
Collaboration with other governmental and non-governmental agencies to evaluate clients and develop release and care plans.
Opportunities to network with community-based service providers, including mental health and substance abuse specialists.
Exposure to public health, social work, and criminal justice sectors, gaining experience in interprofessional teamwork for holistic defense.
Trainings Required: The following training sessions and regular staff meetings are mandatory and critical to maintaining the high standards required for the program’s success and ensuring that all deliverables under Prop 47 Cohort IV are met.
Initial Orientation and Onboarding:
Students will participate in an orientation session to familiarize them with the goals and operations of the Proposition 47 Cohort IV Pre-Arraignment Screening and Intake. This training will cover the program’s objectives, client-centered approaches, legal frameworks around diversion, and the Medi-Cal "lockout" issue, with a focus on how the program addresses barriers to care for incarcerated individuals.
Biopsychosocial Assessment Training:
Students will receive specialized training on how to conduct biopsychosocial assessments, including identifying mental health and substance abuse needs. This training will also focus on the documentation process, ensuring they are skilled in using the required software systems for tracking client progress.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Care Planning:
Training will cover the development of individualized care plans, referrals to treatment programs, and integration of community-based resources. This is crucial for ensuring students can identify appropriate treatment options and advocate for alternatives to incarceration.
Legal Collaboration and Court Report Writing:
Students will be trained to collaborate with legal professionals, focusing on preparing thorough court reports and understanding the court’s requirements for mental health diversion and substance abuse treatment. This ensures that assessments and care plans are aligned with court needs to advocate for client release.
Ongoing Case Reviews and Team Meetings:
Regular case review meetings will be held with the entire interdisciplinary team, including legal professionals and social workers. These meetings provide opportunities to discuss case progress, address challenges, and coordinate holistic care plans. Participation in these meetings is essential for ensuring that the mental health and substance abuse diversion process runs smoothly.
Wraparound Support and Post-Release Follow-Up:
Students will receive training on ensuring continuity of care post-release, including follow-up strategies for clients to remain engaged in mental health and substance abuse programs. This training will emphasize the importance of wraparound services in helping clients reintegrate into their communities.
Cultural Competency and Trauma-Informed Care:
To support justice-involved individuals effectively, staff are required to undergo training in cultural competency and trauma-informed care. This ensures that students are equipped to engage with clients from diverse backgrounds and with significant mental health and substance abuse histories in a compassionate and respectful manner.
Concentration:
- Social Work
- Community Health
- Public Administration/ Non-profit Management
Format of Service:
- Remote Service
- In-Person Service
Type of Service:
- Direct Client Service
- Indirect Service
The following CHHS Competencies that the student will be exposed to:
- Collaboration
- Cross Cultural Competency
- Information Management
- Knowledge of Health & Human Services (SW or CH)
- Leadership
- Personal & Professional Communication
- Professional Development
PAID Internship