Behavioral Health Specialist (Assessment), Social Work/Counselor III - Youth Services Center.

Department Information This position will be accepting applications from residents and non-residents of Colorado. This announcement is open to potential candidates who are legal residents of the United States. All legal residents of the United States are eligible to apply and compete. If appointed to a position, applicants from outside of Colorado will be required to relocate to Colorado prior to their start date, at their own expense. Please note: This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Department Information This position will be accepting applications from residents and non-residents of Colorado. This announcement is open to potential candidates who are legal residents of the United States. All legal residents of the United States are eligible to apply and compete. If appointed to a position, applicants from outside of Colorado will be required to relocate to Colorado prior to their start date, at their own expense. Please note: This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Division of Youth Services - Campus at Lookout Mountain Youth Services Center About the Division of Youth Services: The Division of Youth Services (DYS) provides a continuum of residential and non-residential services that encompass juvenile detention, commitment, and parole. DYS is the agency statutorily mandated to provide for the care and supervision of youth committed by the District Court to the custody of the Colorado Department of Human Services. The Division operates fifteen secure facilities that serve youth between the ages of 10 and 21, who are pre‑adjudicated, sentenced, or committed. The Division also contracts with numerous private residential and non‑residential service providers throughout the State. For pre‑adjudicated youth, the Division is also responsible for the management and oversight of Colorado Youth Detention Continuum, a State‑funded, locally administered program that provides services to youth at risk of further progressing into the juvenile justice system. In addition to residential programming, the Division administers juvenile parole services throughout the State. We invite you to explore the DYS website and learn about the services provided to youth, families, and local communities in the State of Colorado at: Description Of Job You are required to work at your assigned work location during your scheduled work times. Please note: Work arrangements are subject to change at any time. Summary Of Work Unit It is the mission of the Division of Youth Services (DYS) to effectively build skills and competencies of youth to become responsible citizens. The Social Work series and other identified Behavioral Health Specialists employed by the facility are responsible for providing evidenced based and research supported therapeutic intervention services to youth committed and detained with the Division of Youth Services. Behavioral Health Specialists are expected to provide for the therapeutic care of and support opportunities for growth and change for youth and their caregivers, to ensure healthy and successful reintegration back into our communities. These positions maintain and support the DYS treatment model and Sanctuary principles with transition staff, client management, mental health services, medical, special education, security staff and administration as needed. As a Behavioral Health Specialist within our facility, they are expected to remain current on literature and research in the field, especially as relates to emerging practices with complex mental health populations and behavioral and sensory interventions. Summary Of The Position The purpose of this position is to administer and interpret criminogenic, mental health, trauma, and substance abuse screening and assessment tools, in order to arrive at accurate and effective recommendations for placement and treatment goals for juveniles who have been committed to the Department of Human Services, Division of Youth Services. A primary aim of this position is to work within a multidisciplinary team to offer empirically supported criminogenic, mental health, trauma, and substance abuse evaluation services to the youth and families that DYS serves. This job class requires advanced educational degree, training, and experience in the discipline areas of criminal risk, mental health, trauma, and substance abuse screening and evaluation. This position conducts individual and family structured clinical interviews, administers and interprets psychological assessment information, acts as a liaison with psychiatric professionals, completes substance abuse screening and assessments, and participates as a team member and clinical consultant with other assessment and regional personnel. Information gained through the assessment process is synthesized into a comprehensive and professional report and is completed within the timelines specified in Colorado Revised Statues and internal implementing procedures. Conduct clinical interviews, criminogenic risk assessments, drug and alcohol screening and assessments, mental health evaluations, trauma assessment, and neuropsychological screenings on juvenile offenders who are committed to the Department of Human Services, Division of Youth Services. Administration and interpretation of the Colorado Youth Assessment Screening Instrument, Juvenile Automated Substance Abuse Evaluation (JASAE), and University of California Los Angeles Post Traumatic Stress Disorder – Reaction Index (UCLA PTSD-RI) to assess specified areas of functioning including, but not limited to: current and past delinquent behaviors, mental health presentation, criminogenic need areas, family issues, peer relationships, self perceptions, use of free time, level of maturity, problem solving skills, breadth of decision‑making, drug and alcohol involvement, personal goals, risk factors associated with neuropsychological deficits, and identified skills/competencies. Conduct family interview to ascertain individualized family strengths, needs, perspective, and expressed goals for treatment and DYS stay. Outline the assessment process to youth and families, including expectations, responding to questions, and requesting signed authorization for release of information and disclosure statements. Review relevant collateral data, previous evaluation findings, legal documents, and any other information received at time of commitment, and incorporate the information into the finalized assessment report. Review Court Orders to ensure legality per Colorado Children’s Code. Contact DYS Quality Assurance designee and/or courts to obtain any necessary legal interpretation or clarification and request amendment to mittimi when warranted. Complete all commitment classification paperwork, calculate security level designation and sentencing parameters, and enter results into the Trails database system. Job Duties Formalized Assessment Practice Conduct clinical interviews, criminogenic risk assessments, drug and alcohol screening and assessments, mental health evaluations, trauma assessment, and neuropsychological screenings on juvenile offenders who are committed to the Department of Human Services, Division of Youth Services. Administration and interpretation of the Colorado Juvenile Risk Assessment (CJRA), Juvenile Automated Substance Abuse Evaluation (JASAE), and University of California Los Angelas Post Traumatic Stress Disorder – Reaction Index (UCLA PTSD‑RI) to assess specified areas of functioning including, but not limited to: current and past delinquent behaviors, mental health presentation, criminogenic need areas, family issues, peer relationships, self‑perceptions, use of free time, level of maturity, problem solving skills, breadth of decision‑making, drug and alcohol involvement, personal goals, risk factors associated with neuropsychological deficits, and identified skills/competencies. Conduct family interview to ascertain individualized family strengths, needs, perspective, and expressed goals for treatment and DYS stay. Outline the assessment process to youth and families, including expectations, responding to questions, and requesting signed authorization for release of information and disclosure statements. Communicate individualized assessment findings and treatment recommendations with interdisciplinary team members to arrive at collaborative decisions regarding Service Plan goals, optional placement types, and recommended treatment. Participate in the initial DYS Multidisciplinary team meeting to discuss all relevant assessment findings in order to arrive at consensus related to prescribed placement type, service plan recommendations, and transition goals based upon individualized youth and family needs. Incorporate all assessment findings into a comprehensive, individualized, and strengths‑based written Assessment Report. Enter all pertinent information into the Colorado Trails database. Perform a quality review all Assessment Reports prior to dissemination to ensure information contained in the report is accurate, conveys data necessary for DCP/Treatment Plan development, and represents correct grammar, spelling, and sentence structure. Legal Interpretation Review relevant collateral data, previous evaluation findings, legal documents, and any other information received at time of commitment, and incorporate the information into the finalized assessment report. Review Court Orders to ensure legality per Colorado Children’s Code. Contact DYS Quality Assurance designee and/or courts to obtain any necessary legal interpretation or clarification and request amendment to mittimi when warranted. Complete all commitment classification paperwork, calculate security level designation and sentencing parameters, and enter results into the Trails database system. Contact collateral agencies to verify or request additional information on newly committed juveniles. Review all information available in the judicial data base to ensure accuracy of mittimi, additional/pending charges, sentencing requirements, court orders and/or restitution ordered, and note any discovered discrepancies in the Assessment Report. Forward legal documents to DYS Quality Assurance designee for review and respond to requests for corrections in accordance with Assessment Services Quality Assurance protocol. Communication/Training Provide clinical oversight, expertise, quality assurance, and direction regarding evaluation findings of juvenile’s committed to the Department of Human Services, Division of Youth Services. Uphold effectiveness, fit, and functionality of currently utilized evaluation instruments, including the Colorado Juvenile Risk Assessment (CJRA), Juvenile Automated Substance Abuse Evaluation (JASAE), and provide recommendations for improving statewide Assessment Services practices and policies. Participate in training topics related to assessment, including but not limited to, strengths‑based evaluation and goal setting, effective report writing, identification of mental health and criminogenic need factors, psychological theories that apply to assessment, and motivational interviewing skills. Participate as a representative for DYS Assessment Services at various mental health and juvenile justice conferences. Maintain ongoing statewide correspondence with Assessment Specialist colleagues, service providers, and client managers to ensure reliable communication and continuity of services provided across the DYS continuum of care. Other Duties as assigned Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions Of Employment & Appeal Rights Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications listed below to continue in the selection process for this position. Work experience must be specifically documented on your application. Do not use "see resume" or "see attached" statements on your application. Mininum Qualifications License and Experience: Licensed Social Worker (LSW) OR Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) OR Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) OR Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) AND One (1) year of experience with current, valid licensure from a state participating in the Social Work Licensure Compact based on the work assigned to the position. Preferred Qualifications Relatable experience as a current or previous State of Colorado employee. Conditions Of Employment Be a minimum of 21 years of age, with no felony convictions or history of domestic violence Full background check and reference check required This position requires State of Colorado residency at the time of application (unless otherwise identified in the posting), and residency within the state throughout the duration of employment in this position. Motor Vehicle Check, Must possess a valid, non‑restricted Colorado Driver’s License. Out‑of‑State Driver’s License holders must obtain a valid, non‑restricted Colorado Driver’s License within 30 days of employment start date. Continued employment is contingent upon successful completion of the DYS Pre‑service Training Academy, Field Training Program (FTO) and mandatory annual training in all subject areas. Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must: Disclose that information on the application. Explain why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify you from the current position. Provide your employee number from your prior State employment. Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination and failure to provide this information will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with CDHS. CDHS Selection Process Explanation Employment history is calculated on a full‑time basis (40/hrs per week). Part‑time employment is calculated on a prorated basis to determine qualifications. Be sure your application specifically addresses your qualifications, experience, work products, and accomplishments as they relate to the position and minimum requirements. Minimum Qualification Screening Process A Human Resources Analyst will review the work experience/job duties sections of the online job application to determine whether your experience meets the minimum qualifications for the position. You must complete the official State of Colorado online application. Cover letters and resumes WILL NOT be reviewed during the minimum qualifications screening process. You must specifically document your work experience and qualifications in the application form. Do not use "see resume" or "see attached." You must meet the minimum qualifications to continue in the selection process. Part‑time work experience will be prorated. Comparative Analysis Process – Structured Application Review After minimum qualification screening, the comparative analysis process will involve reviewing and rating of all the information you submit. The comparative analysis step may also include your results from standardized testing. Your Work Experience/Job Duties Document your work experience/job duties to the extent to which you possess the skills, education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications. If listed, answer all supplemental questions as your answers to these questions will be evaluated during this phase. Provide at least 4-8 sentences for each supplemental question. Supplemental Questions Answer the supplemental questions completely and thoughtfully. We will rate your answers based on the content of your response and your writing skills (spelling, grammar, and clarity of your writing). Appeal Rights You may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director if your application is eliminated. You will find the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it on the State Personnel Board website. About Us & Benefits If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference, join the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). Our professionals strive to design and deliver high quality human and health services that improve the safety, independence, and well‑being of the people of Colorado. Each of us is committed to contributing to a safe and accessible CDHS . In addition to a great location and rewarding and meaningful work, we offer: Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans Medical and dental health plans Employer supplemented Health Savings Account Paid life insurance Short- and long‑term disability coverage 11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave State of Colorado Employee BenefitHub Resource Center Employee Wellness program Excellent work‑life programs, such as flexible schedules, training and more Remote work arrangements for eligible positions *Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program Our Values We believe in a people‑first approach: We prioritize the needs, well‑being, and dignity of the individuals, families and communities we serve. We commit to respect, fairness and access in every decision, policy and interaction. We engage client voices and experiences in the development and implementation of the services we provide. Balance creates quality of life: We want our team to be resilient through a supportive workplace that values flexibility, health and wellness, and employee engagement. We hold ourselves accountable: We take responsibility through our actions, programs, and results for the state of health and human services in Colorado. Transparency matters: We are open and honest with employees, our partners, the Coloradans we serve, and the public. We are ethical: We abide by what is best for those we serve by doing what is right, not what is easy. Collaboration helps us rise together: We work together with all partners, employees, and clients to achieve the best outcomes for Coloradans. ADA Accommodations CDHS is committed to a Colorado for ALL qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment. This includes completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre‑employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or performing essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to View email address on click.appcast.io . EEO Statement: The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer We are committed to increasing a “Colorado for ALL” of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities. The State of Colorado believes that a “Colorado for ALL” drives our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Colorado