Mental Health Counselor - Sheriff

Mental Health Counselor

The purpose of this class is to provide professional mental health counseling services to incarcerated individuals to promote optimum mental health and emotional well-being. The incumbent conducts individual and group counseling sessions, performs mental health assessments, develops and implements treatment plans, and provides crisis intervention services. The position also serves as a liaison between the criminal justice system and mental health treatment agencies while ensuring compliance with applicable laws, policies, and confidentiality requirements.

Typical tasks include:

• Provide individual and group counseling for mental health, substance abuse, and behavioral needs
• Conduct mental health assessments and develop personalized treatment plans
• Deliver crisis intervention during urgent mental health situations
• Maintain accurate, confidential records and progress reports
• Collaborate with medical staff, correctional teams, and community providers
• Monitor progress and adjust treatment strategies for better outcomes
• Support reentry efforts through discharge planning and coordination

Minimum requirements:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in psychology, sociology, counseling, or a related field required.
• Experience in mental health treatment, counseling, or a related field preferred.
• Must successfully pass a criminal background investigation.
• Must successfully pass a background check before any offer of employment or promotion.
• This position is safety sensitive and is subject to testing for alcohol and controlled substances in accordance with the City's current substance abuse policy.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain a satisfactory driving record in accordance with the City of Hampton's criteria.

Additional requirements:

• Knowledge of correctional systems and the criminal justice process is desirable.
• Licensure through the Virginia State clinical therapy board is preferred.
• The incumbent may be considered "essential personnel" during city emergency situations, or at the direction of the City Manager or designee, which may include long hours and unusual schedules.