Mental Health Specialist V
Note: this position will be required to work evenings and weekends. Flexibility in work hours may be required for this position. The position may be required to work overtime and/or extended hours.

Are you ready to be professionally challenged? Are you looking to be part of a dynamic team of engaged and committed professionals? Then the Health and Specialty Care System (HSCS) may be just the place for you! The State Hospital System, under the HSCS is comprised of nine psychiatric hospitals located throughout the state and one youth residential psychiatric center in Waco. The HSCS is a hub of excellence for forensic mental health and complex psychiatric care, with all facilities accredited by The Joint Commission. The hospitals provide state-of-the-art treatment that is recovery-oriented and evidence-based. Whether in a direct-care or support role, your contribution will make a difference in the life of a Texan. Apply now to join our team.

The Health Specialist V (Mental Health Specialist V) performs highly advanced psychological/therapeutic work under the supervision of a licensed Psychologist. The Mental Health Specialist V provides consultation regarding behavioral interventions for patients across the hospital. Work involves recovery planning, counseling/therapy, reporting, developing behavior plans, and documentation. Requires the ability to work independently and with a high degree of accuracy. May plan, assign, and/or supervise the work of others. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location

Essential Job Functions:

Attends Work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

Performs psychological activities under the supervision of a licensed Psychologist, including individual, group, and/or family therapy with patients referred. In addition, may also meet with families of patients with other recovery team members to provide information and help with discharge planning.

Develops individualized Person-Centered Recovery Plans as assigned on a rotating basis incorporating the patient's goals, noting barriers to achieving these goals, and including appropriate objectives and interventions.

Interviews referred patients and recommends to the patient's recovery team the treatment(s) which will help the patient achieve stability, achieve his/her goals, and maintain recovery after discharge from the hospital.

Develops and/or conducts specialized psychoeducational groups to help patients gain knowledge and develop skills to aid in their recovery.

Interviews patients and reviews records to help with diagnostic clarification recovery planning. This may occur in regular recovery team meetings and in difficult case conferences.

Develops individual behavior plans to address problematic behaviors such as aggression, self-harm, intrusiveness, etc. Works with staff to successfully implement these plans. Monitors effectiveness and modifies plans as needed. As needed, conducts psychological test administration, scoring, and interpretation under the supervision of a licensed Psychologist.

Participates in quality assurance and quality enhancement activities related to psychological service provision and to treatment across the hospital. This may include completing chart audits, participating in tracer activities, and reporting on services he/she has provided.

Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.

Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Knowledge of psychology and related disciplines.

Knowledge of treatment techniques and practices.

Skill in interviewing.

Ability to assist with conducting diagnostic interviews.

Ability to conduct individual, group, and family psychotherapy.

Ability to develop plans for implementing and monitoring rehabilitation activities in skill acquisition and behavior management.

Ability to plan, assign, and/or supervise the work of others.

Registration or Licensure Requirements:

Must be licensed as a Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA), or Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), or a person eligible to pursue licensure by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologist as a Licensed Psychologist OR a related specialty certification preferred such as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

Must possess a valid Texas Driver License or obtain it no later than 90 days after hire date to drive a state vehicle. Applicants with an out-of-state Driver License must provide an original certified driving record from the state of driving licensure. Eligible driving record required based on HHSC Fleet Management policy.

Initial Selection Criteria:

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's or Doctorate degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field.

Experience in psychological/therapeutic work.

Two (2) or more years' experience with assessment and treatment, including work with populations evidencing severe psychopathology.

Additional Information:
COVID-19 Precaution(s):
Personal protective equipment required and provided
Temperature screenings
Social distancing guidelines in place
Sanitizing, disinfecting, or cleaning procedures in place
Vaccines available for employees

All new hire candidates will be required to receive COVID-19 medical screening (nasal test) as part of the due diligence process.

Salary Note: The salary offered will follow HHS HR Policy starting salary guidelines which are typically made at or near the minimum of the salary range. For internal applicants, there can be limitations in consideration of applicant’s current classification and salary and is dependent upon available budget.

Applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks including the Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aid, Medication Aide and Employee Misconduct, and HHS OIG list of Excluded Individuals/Entities. Males between the ages of 18-25 must be registered with the Selective Service.

All applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for employment at a state-operated facility.

Flexibility in work hours may be required for this position. The position may be required to work overtime and/or extended hours.

Compliance with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital operating procedures related to immunizations is required. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthcare workers are considered to be at significant risk for acquiring or transmitting hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (chicken pox), tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and influenza. All of these diseases are vaccine-preventable. As a result, state hospital policy requires employees be vaccinated according to their level of contact with individuals. In the event you choose to not be immunized for the influenza virus, you may be required to wear a mask and take other protective measures.

If you need assistance completing the online application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747.

MOS Code:
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to: 67D, 230X, 4EHX, 68W. All active duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/Compensation/JobDescriptions.aspx.

Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to Jobs at HHSC and DSHS

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.