Experienced Mental Health Counselor for Correctional Health Services

Job Description

Position Overview\n

Sabella Psychiatric Center is seeking a dedicated and experienced Mental Health Counselor to join our team in providing high-quality mental health services to incarcerated individuals. This full-time position, based in Lakewood, Washington, primarily operates in a remote setting but may require occasional visits to our outpatient office for patient evaluations and team meetings. Your expertise will play a vital role in assessing, treating, and improving the mental health of individuals who find themselves in challenging situations.

About the Organization\n

At Sabella Psychiatric Center, we are committed to delivering exceptional mental health care to populations that need it most. With a compassionate approach, our team of licensed professionals operates within a multidisciplinary framework, ensuring comprehensive care tailored to the unique needs of our patients. We believe in fostering an environment of growth, support, and collaboration, and we are seeking professionals who share our dedication to transforming lives through mental wellness.

Work Environment\n

This position offers a flexible remote work arrangement, ensuring that you can provide high-level care from the comfort of your home while staying connected with a supportive team. You will also have the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues in person at our outpatient office for essential meetings and assessments. Our outpatient facility is equipped with modern technology to facilitate remote patient interactions, allowing for an efficient workflow for evaluations, therapy sessions, and collaboration with other health professionals.

Key Responsibilities\n

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• Perform thorough mental health evaluations and assessments of incarcerated individuals to identify their treatment needs.
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• Implement effective crisis intervention strategies to support patients experiencing acute mental health episodes.
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• Coordinate the treatment plans and ensure appropriate referrals to specialized services based on the assessed needs of each patient.
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• Document all patient interactions comprehensively, completing necessary statistical reports to track progress and outcomes.
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• Collaborate closely with the Department of Corrections to ensure timely access to care and proper housing for mental health treatment.
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• Facilitate group therapy sessions within mental health observation units, providing therapeutic support to individuals facing similar challenges.
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• Engage in clinical supervision and participate in mental health and medical rounds to maintain a comprehensive understanding of each patient's condition.
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• Contribute to case conferences to develop and adjust treatment plans for ongoing and potential mental health interventions.
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• May carry out psychological assessments as needed to further evaluate treatment efficacy.
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• Occasionally supervise social work interns or student volunteers to enrich their learning experience while enhancing our team’s effectiveness.
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• Perform any other duties as assigned by the Unit Chief, Assistant Unit Chief, or Clinical Supervisor to ensure the delivery of patient-centered care.
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Patient Population / Client Focus\n

You will predominantly work with incarcerated individuals who present with various mental health issues, including but not limited to behavioral problems, histories of substance use, and severe mental illnesses. This population requires a counselor who is not only skilled in mental health treatment but also adept at navigating the unique challenges and dynamics of the correctional environment. Your contributions will directly impact the mental well-being and re-entry readiness of these individuals.

Qualifications\n

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• A valid mental health license (LICSW, LMHC, or LMFT) in the state of Washington.
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• A Master's degree in Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, Mental Health Counseling, or Psychology from an accredited institution.
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• A minimum of two years of direct client care experience in a behavioral health setting, supplemented by three additional years of post-licensure experience.
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Preferred Experience\n

While not mandatory, preference will be given to candidates with more than five years of full-time, paid professional experience in behavioral health settings. Experience specifically within correctional health services, particularly involving assessment and treatment of individuals with behavioral challenges and severe mental health conditions, is highly desirable. Applicants with insights into inpatient care and related experiences will also be prioritized.

Compensation and Benefits\n

The compensation for this role ranges from USD 115,000 to 130,000 annually, reflecting the importance of your experience and contribution to our clinic. In addition to competitive salary, Sabella Psychiatric Center offers a robust benefits package, including health insurance, retirement savings plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities aimed at fostering your career advancement.

Career Growth Opportunities\n

At Sabella Psychiatric Center, we are invested in the continuous professional development of our team members. You will have access to various training sessions, workshops, and mentorship programs designed to enhance your skills and prepare you for more advanced roles within our organization. With a commitment to promoting from within, your potential for career advancement is significant.

Why Join Our Team\n

Joining Sabella Psychiatric Center means becoming a part of an organization that emphasizes compassion, integrity, and excellence in mental health care. You will work alongside a diverse team of professionals dedicated to making a lasting difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges. Together, we strive to create a supportive environment where both our patients and staff can thrive.

Application Information\n

If you are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of others and meet the qualifications for this role, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and application online by clicking the "Apply Now" button. Join us in transforming lives through compassionate mental health care.