Mental Health Therapist

Mental Health Therapist – Youth Behavioral HealthLocation: Ocala, Florida - Ocala Youth Academy Department: Clinical Services Job Type: Full-Time Pay: $50,000 - $55,000Ocala Youth Academy serves up to 72 adolescent males ages 15–18 across Mental Health and Substance Abuse overlay services. Youth engage in evidence-based interventions including Moral Recognition Therapy, Seven Challenges, and Impact of Crime, with individual, group and family counseling, victim impact awareness, restorative justice, life skills training, and education via Florida Scholars Academy. Onsite medical and psychiatric care, dietitian-managed meals, and youth advisory-driven programming support a trauma-informed treatment model. Length of stay depends on individualized risk reduction and treatment outcomesPosition Summary – Mental Health Therapist Job in Ocala, FLWe are hiring a Mental Health Therapist to join our clinical team in Ocala, Florida. This role is ideal for a therapist passionate about working in youth behavioral health, juvenile care, or residential treatment. You'll be responsible for providing direct clinical care, supporting mental health needs, and helping stabilize youth during their treatment process.Mental Health Therapist Job BenefitsMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with up to 4% employer match with Immediate VestingPaid time off (PTO) and holidays – Earn 4 hours of PTO every pay periodFree RX delivery on most medicationsTuition reimbursement and professional developmentRobust Employee Assistance ProgramSupportive, mission-driven work environmentWhy Join Youth Opportunity?Be part of a team making a difference in the lives of vulnerable youthGain experience in a growing field of youth mental health and residential careWork in a secure, structured, and supportive treatment environmentDevelop your skills through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunitiesMental Health Therapist ResponsibilitiesCoordinate the implementation of individualized mental health and substance abuse treatment plansProvide ongoing evaluation, assessment, and counseling to youth and families under clinical supervisionFacilitate individual, group, and family therapyDocument treatment progress through weekly notes, treatment plans, reviews, and aftercare planningDevelop discharge and aftercare plans for youthAssess family dynamics and implement intervention strategies as appropriateCollaborate with leadership to support compliance and performance improvement initiativesOther Duties IncludeParticipate in daily activities and routines with youth and direct care staffMaintain a high standard of role model behavior for youthComplete required training and professional development activitiesReport incidents or conditions suggesting inappropriate conduct or safety concernsPerform other duties as assignedRequired QualificationsMaster's degree in counseling, social work, psychology, rehabilitation, special education, or a related human services fieldTwo years' experience working with children with serious emotional disturbances or substance abuse concerns preferred (experience preferred but not required with a qualifying degree)Ability to pass background check and drug screenPreferred ExperienceGroup therapy facilitation techniquesStrong clinical judgment and organizational skillsExperience working with youth in residential or challenging settingsPhysical DemandsMust be in good physical health and emotionally stable. Must be able to actively engage with youth, transport clients, and participate in physical interventions if needed. Free of communicable diseases as defined by the state. Must pass evaluation of physical techniques and written certification exam.Other RequirementsValid state driver's licenseMust meet state criminal background check requirementsFlexibility to work irregular hours as neededClick "Apply Now" through Indeed to submit your application. Or visit to learn more about our mission and career opportunities.Youth Opportunity is an Equal Opportunity Employer.