Behavioral Health Specialist, Social Work/Counselor III - Prairie Vista.

Job Overview The Division of Youth Services (DYS) is a state agency that oversees residential and non‑residential services for youth. This position functions as a mental health counselor, providing mental health and case management services to committed and detained youth in Colorado. Key Responsibilities Maintain a caseload and conduct individual, group, and family therapy sessions using evidence‑based treatment theories. Assess youth for DSM‑5 diagnoses, monitor medication effectiveness in partnership with the facility psychiatrist, and perform suicide risk assessment. Develop and implement assessment and treatment plans, including setting goals, monitoring progress, and documenting all services in an approved electronic health record. Collaborate with the medical team, psychiatric staff, educational/vocational systems, and multidisciplinary team to coordinate therapeutic and academic services. Provide crisis management, substance‑abuse counseling, and trauma‑informed care, using strength‑based and holistic approaches. Facilitate community review teams and support ROGK/Sanctuary program implementation. Train and consult with facility staff on evidence‑based practices, maintain certifications, and participate in supervision and professional development. Ensure confidentiality, complete mandated documentation, and communicate with stakeholders per policy. Assessment and Treatment Planning Review assessment data, develop therapeutic rapport, and keep confidentiality. Recognize signs of serious mental illness, monitor progress, and adjust interventions as needed. Make recommendations for alternate interventions for youth not responding to programming. Collaborate with leadership to transition planning for reintegration. Training and Consultation Maintain knowledge of federal and state confidentiality regulations and licensure requirements. Train staff in best‑practice treatment delivery. Participate in orientation, workshops, clinical supervision, and treatment team meetings. Provide input on milieu programming, treatment goals, and new program options. Documentation and Communication Document treatment notes for individual and group sessions in DAP format. Ensure corrected information is recorded appropriately. Determine appropriate communication channels for youth treatment data. Minimum Qualifications Current, valid Colorado or participating state Social Work licensure (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, or LAC). One year of experience with the required licensure in a setting consistent with the position duties. Preferred Qualifications Experience as a current or former State of Colorado employee. Conditions of Employment Minimum 21 years of age and no felony convictions or history of domestic violence. Full background check, reference check, and state background screening required. State of Colorado residency at the time of application and throughout employment. Valid, non‑restricted Colorado driver’s license. Successful completion of DYS pre‑service training academy, field training program, and mandatory annual training. Completion of the Diana Screen sexual‑risk screening as required. Former state employees terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose information and provide their employee number. Benefits Retirement benefits: PERA Defined Benefit or Contribution Plan, 401(k), and 457 plans. Medical and dental health plans. Employer‑sponsored Health Savings Account. Paid life insurance. Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage. 11 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave. Employee Wellness program and flexible schedules. Remote work arrangements for eligible positions. Possible Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. EEO Statement The State of Colorado is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments. We provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Colorado