Dshs BHA Psychology Associate

Are you looking to further your professional career in the field of Psychology?

If you are ready to put your graduate degree to work and gain valuable experience in a residential behavioral health setting where you have room to grow and learn, this is a great opportunity for you!  You will be working as a member of an on-site ward interdisciplinary team that includes psychiatry, nursing, social work, rehabilitation, and many more.

Western State Hospital is seeking a Psychology Associates who will be assigned to WSH's Center of Forensic Services, where you will work with those committed under competency related issues or not guilty by reason of insanity (NGRI). You will gain insight into behavioral health illness treatment and help support the recovery process.

Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.  

Join our team and make a meaningful impact by providing evidence based treatment and psychoeducation to reduce barriers to competency and help mitigate the public safety risk of those admitted based on NGRI. You will provide case management in order to support reintegration into the community and subsequent success.

Some of what you will be doing:

• Provide individual therapy, ward based group or recreational activities, as well as case management

• Complete suicide risk assessment to inform treatment goal

• Serve as the liaison between hospital and those being cared for

• Follow notification requirements

• Complete documentation as needed and assigned

• Take the lead role in creating treatment plans and behavioral agendas

• Process administrative reports of incidents

• Attend all meetings as required

Who should apply:

• Professionals with a master's or Doctoral degree in Psychology or related behavioral health field

• Possess current mental health license to practice independently (without clinical supervision) in State of Washington or a Certified or Licensed Agency Affiliated Counselor license from State of Washington within 30 days of hire, or the ability to obtain such licenses within 30 days of hire

See why people like you chose careers with DSHS.

Pierce County employees receive a free Orca card for transportation needs.

Interested?  Apply today!

Please include:

• Cover letter

• A Chronological, current resume

Questions? Please contact kris.george@dshs.wa.gov and reference #07072

Our Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) mission to Transform Lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency's mission that you bring an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, including Black, Indigenous and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.  

#WeAreHiring #InclusionWorks  

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

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