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Psychology Associate - WCCW HS

Psychology Associate - WCCW HS

State of WashingtonGig Harbor, WA, United States
17 days ago
Salary
$92,124.00–$123,960.00 yearly
Job description

Salary : $92,124.00 - $123,960.00 Annually

Location : Pierce County - Gig Harbor, WA

Job Type : Full Time - Permanent

Job Number : HS-WCCW-2025-02516

Department : Dept. of Corrections

Division : HS - WCCW

Opening Date : 04 / 04 / 2025

Closing Date : 5 / 6 / 2025 11 : 59 PM Pacific

Description

Washington Corrections Center for Women

Gig Harbor Washington

Psychology Associate - Full Time Project position

Shift : 7 : 30AM-4 : 00PM Monday through Friday (Sat / Sun off)

The Washington State Department of Corrections is seeking a highly motivated and qualified individual for the position of Psychology Assistant at the Washington Corrections Center for Women (WCCW), in Gig Harbor Washington. This is a day shift position that will require work to be completed onsite at the facility.

This position supports the mission of DOC, Health Services Division, and WCCW mental health services, as follows :

We work with all DOC staff for safer communities, to improve public safety by providing medically necessary and individualized care that promotes wellness. We meet the basic needs of incarcerated individuals by providing healthcare which aims to increase incarcerated individual safety and decrease recidivism, thereby promoting positive change in incarcerated individuals.

This position provides journey level mental health care service under both the supervision and lead of licensed psychologists, to adult incarcerated individuals (I / Is) housed at WCCW.

Duties

Provides psychological treatment and documents in a timely manner.

Clinical Interviews :

  • The PSYCH ASSOC conducts clinical interviews of incarcerated individuals on his / her caseload for the purpose of obtaining background information, determining provisional diagnoses, and evaluating treatment needs. The PSYCH ASSOC documents this information in a Mental Health Appraisal (MHA) and / or Mental Health Update (MHU) for each incarcerated individual referred on his / her caseload and completes the minimum team standard each week.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC obtains any available historical documentation regarding past psychological or psychiatric treatment.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC recommends treatment needs for incarcerated individuals on his / her caseload and makes appropriate treatment referrals (i.e., psychological assessment, medication evaluation, individual treatment, group treatment) as clinically indicated through the use of a formal treatment plan. All treatment (both individual and group) will be documented on gender specific, individualized and culturally competent treatment plans, and will fall within the parameters of the WHP.

Treatment :

  • The PSYCH ASSOC provides individual and group treatment utilizing promising practices and evidence-based treatments for assigned outpatient caseload. Group treatment will be provided in accordance with the minimum team standard.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC provides case management and / or 3 crisis sessions allotted per the Washington DOC Healthcare Plan (WHP) to outpatient caseload as needed.
  • When cases become complex, involve litigation, or require additional expertise, the PSYCH ASSOC consults with and / or transfers cases (as needed / directed), to the psychologist 4.

    • Coordination of Care :

  • The PSYCH ASSOC coordinates care with psychiatric provider and participates in telepsychiatry as needed / assigned.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC will attend and provide input in Facility Risk Management Team (FRMT) meetings for incarcerated individuals on his / her caseload according to policy or as requested by custody staff or the incarcerated individual.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC gathers information through Functional Analysis from unit staff to create and implement Individualized Behavior Management Plans (IBMPs) as needed for incarcerated individuals on his / her caseload. He / She writes, updates and modifies IBMPs as clinically indicated.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC will consult with the PSYCH3 or PSYCH4 on cases, for purposes of planning, coordinating, and monitoring evaluation of unit psychological services.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC will administer treatment measures to track progress during intake and annual Mental Health Updates (MHU's). Contributes this information to PSYCH3 and PSYCH 4's in collaboration with outcome measure research.

    • Documentation :

  • The PSYCH ASSOC documents all contacts with patients in a timely manner via Mental Health Encounter Reports (MHER's) utilizing SOAP format. Notes will include diagnostic impressions, treatment referrals and coordination of care.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC utilizes the writing tool Conclusion, Rule, Assessment, Conclusion (CRAC) to formulate and justify diagnoses in all Mental Health Appraisal's (DOC form 13-376), Mental Health Updates (DOC form 13-600), Offender Community Reentry Safety (ORCS) program reports, and cases submitted electronically to the Care Review Committee (CRC).
  • The PSYCH ASSOC inputs daily Offender Management Network Information (OMNI) encounters (electronic) on all incarcerated individuals seen that day and uploads appropriate documents to SharePoint.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC completes consult requests for incarcerated individuals prior to beginning treatment (group and individual). He / she will also present cases to the Mental Health Care Review Committee (CRC) as required in the WHP.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC responds to incarcerated individual kite requests in a timely manner.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC documents suicide risk evaluations completed on all incarcerated individuals who have had a suicide / self-harm attempt within the past year using the Suicide Risk Assessment (SRA) (form 13-371) and Safety Plan (form 13-527) and includes in the written assessment documentation of the correctional risk factors assessed (included dynamic, static, acute and protective), housing and placement considerations, and relevant risk management planning.

    • Responds to facility mental health crisis :

  • The PSYCH ASSOC will respond to Requests for Mental Health Assessment (form 13-420) as triaged by the supervisor and lead.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC will make appropriate treatment and follow-up referrals as clinically indicated or required by policy, which may include referrals to primary therapists, psychiatric providers, the Close Observation Area (COA) or the Treatment Evaluation Center (TEC).
  • The PSYCH ASSOC evaluates suicide risk and makes appropriate placement and risk management decisions. He / She documents suicide risk using the Suicide Risk Assessment (SRA) and Safety Plan forms and includes in the written assessment documentation of the correctional risk factors assessed (included dynamic, static, acute and protective), housing and placement considerations, and relevant risk management planning.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC will coordinate with custody staff on any changes in housing assignment.

    • Conducts intake screenings

  • The PSYCH ASSOC will complete intake screenings on incoming incarcerated individuals to the facility on assigned day each week in accordance with policy.
  • The PSYCH ASSOC will complete Suicide Risk Assessments (SRAs) and Safety Plans on all incarcerated individuals entering the facility who report a significant self-harm / suicide attempt within the 12 months prior to their admission.

    • Take Mental Health Duty Officer (MHDO) call as assigned

  • Take one week of assigned MHDO call per assigned rotation
  • Follow MHDO policies and procedures.
  • Attend MH and Health Services staff meetings (on-site and off-site), read / critique assigned materials.
  • Suggest and support innovative ideas and strategies.
  • Foster teamwork.
  • Practice fiscal responsibility.
  • Promote safety; be alert, be aware.
  • Write infractions as indicated.
  • Attend all required training.
  • Other duties as assigned (i.e., weekly ITJS screenings, teaching AIS, etc.)

    • Qualifications

    Required Qualifications :

  • Licensed Agency Affiliated Counselor (LAAC)
  • Must have the ability to apply for Licensed Agency Affiliated Counselor License within 30 days of hire date.
  • Additional consideration may be given for higher level DOH MH licenses.

    • Additionally,

    All staff entering into employment with the Department of Corrections must possess the following values at the time of hire :

  • Cultivate an environment of integrity and trust : Corrections values partnership and trust. We foster openness and support courageous conversations. We are committed to doing what we say we are going to do by being accountable and taking personal ownership in our actions.
  • Respectful and inclusive interactions : Corrections appreciates and values individuals by promoting an inclusive and diverse environment, which encourages safety. We respect, value, and listen to the thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of our stakeholders and consider the impact on those we serve as well as each other.
  • People's safety : Corrections believes in creating an environment that values physical, mental, and emotional security and well-being. We honor those who advance safety for all.
  • Positivity in words and actions : At Corrections, we assume positive intentions and believe there is a shared desire for the best outcome. We consistently demonstrate positive behavior and always put forth our best effort.
  • Supporting people's success : Corrections is committed to our community - understanding individuals, instilling hope, embracing change, and providing opportunities.

    • Preferred / Desired Qualifications :

  • Doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited school or department of Psychology or master's degree in psychology and two years of supervised, post master's degree experience.
  • At least one year of experience working independently and effectively to develop and provide individual and group therapies.
  • Experience linking clients with resources within institutions and / or the community.
  • Experience working in a collaborative fashion as part of a multidisciplinary treatment team.
  • Official Washington State Licensure as a Mental Health Clinician.

    • Supplemental Information

    Please include a minimum of three professional references with your application :

  • The Department of Corrections defines a professional reference as an individual who has been paid to supervise your work and can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job competencies.
  • If you do not have any or sufficient professional references, please include non-related professionals, such as educators or other professional associates.
  • Phone number AND email address are required for all professional references.

    • What we offer :

    As an employee of the Department of Corrections, your work-life integration is a priority. Washington State employees are offered one of the most inclusive and competitive benefits packages in the nation. Besides comprehensive family insurance for medical, dental, and vision, these perks also may include :

  • Remote / telework / flexible schedules (depending on position)
  • Up to 25 paid vacations days a year
  • 8 hours of paid sick leave per month
  • 12 paid holidays a year
  • Generous retirement plan
  • Flex Spending Accounts
  • Dependent Care Assistance
  • Deferred Compensation and so much more!

    • Additional Information :

  • The mission of DOC is to improve public safety. For additional information about the agency, please visit doc.wa.gov.
  • A background check including criminal record history will be conducted prior to a new hire. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.
  • Employees may work directly with or in close proximity to incarcerated individuals in a potentially hazardous setting. Please consider this when deciding whether to apply.
  • We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free work environment, and our employees are expected to comply with all state and federal laws.
  • Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) is an aerosol pepper spray made available as a means of self-defense and / or de-escalation. Applicants with sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure they could expect in this position.
  • Animal care projects are a common component of most Washington State prisons, including dog and cat programs. Applicants with animal sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure they could expect in this position.
  • Tuberculosis (TB) is a priority health issue for DOC employees. The successful candidate may be required to provide valid proof of a baseline TB skin test within 60 days of the date of hire. When positive tests result, further information, testing and treatment may also be required. Employment is not contingent upon test results.
  • If this position is included in a Union Shop, employees will be required to become members within thirty (30) days of employment.
  • Requires respirator medical evaluation questionnaire, fit testing, training, and use of respiratory protection as required by the WA Industrial Safety & Act standards. Refer to WAC 296-842 to learn more.
  • Salary is based on experience and is determined at the time a final offer of employment is made. The salary range listed in the job posting includes Steps A-M. Step M is a longevity step and is typically gained six years after being assigned to Step L in your permanent salary range.
  • Foreign equivalent degrees awarded outside the United States must have a credential evaluation report attached to your application. You may request the required evaluation / documentation fromandUntil this documentation is provided, you will not be selected to move forward in the hiring process.
  • This recruitment could be used to fill multiple permanent or non-permanent positions.
  • DOC complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements for the federal employment eligibility verification form I-9. The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States consistent with the requirements of that form.
  • DOC does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visit

    • Our Mission : To improve public safety by positively changing lives.

    Our Vision : Working together for safer communities.

    Our Commitment : To operate a safe and humane corrections system and partner with others to transform lives for a better Washington.

    Our Core Values :

  • Cultivate an environment of integrity and trust : Corrections values partnership and trust. We foster openness and support courageous conversations. We are committed to doing what we say we are going to do by being accountable and taking personal ownership in our actions.
  • Respectful and inclusive interactions : Corrections appreciates and values individuals by promoting an inclusive and diverse environment, which encourages safety. We respect, value, and listen to the thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of our stakeholders and consider the impact on those we serve as well as each other.
  • People's safety : Corrections believes in creating an environment that values physical, mental, and emotional security and well-being. We honor those who advance safety for all.
  • Positivity in words and actions : At Corrections, we assume positive intentions and believe there is a shared desire for the best outcome. We consistently demonstrate positive behavior and always put forth our best effort.
  • Supporting people's success : Corrections is committed to our community - understanding individuals, instilling hope, embracing change, and providing opportunities.

    • We are committed to hiring individuals who possess the following core diversity competencies :

  • Foster a positive attitude and openness toward the ever changing social and cultural makeup of the workplace.
  • Work effectively with people of different perspectives, abilities, disabilities, races, religions, ages, lifestyle preferences and social, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds.
  • Respectfully acknowledge people's differences and recognize these differences as important and valuable.
  • Promote inclusiveness.
  • Be culturally sensitive and appropriate.
  • Respect and value diverse backgrounds and traditions.

    • DOC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity diversity, age, honorably discharged veteran, veteran status, genetic information, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability.

    For questions about this recruitment, or to request reasonable accommodation in the application process, please email . For TTY service, please call the Washington Relay Service at 7-1-1 or 1.800.833.6388.

    More than Just a Paycheck!

    Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

    We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

    Read about our benefits :

    The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

    Note : If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

    Insurance Benefits

    Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

    Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

    To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

    Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

    Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

    The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

    Retirement and Deferred Compensation

    State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

    Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

    Social Security

    All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

    Public Service Loan Forgiveness

    If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

    Holidays

    Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

    Note : Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

    Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

    Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

    Sick Leave

    Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

    Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

    Vacation (Annual Leave)

    Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

    Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

    Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

    As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and / or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

    Note : Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

    Military Leave

    Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

    Bereavement Leave

    Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

    Additional Leave

    Leave Sharing

    Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

    Leave Without Pay

    Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

    Updated 12-31-2022

    Please indicate below your certification, registration, or licensing credentials as provided by the Washington Department of Health.

  • I am unable to obtain any of the above.
  • I do not possess the above, but if selected for this position I will obtain one of the above within 30 days of hire.
  • I possess status as a Licensed Agency Affiliated Counselor through the Washington State Dept. of Health, or a Mental Health Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist or Social Worker license from the state of Washington.

    • Please provide any relevant counselor license numbers below. If you do not have one, type N / A.

    Please indicate below your highest level of relevant experience and knowledge :

  • I have one (1) year supervised work experience providing direct psychological services in a mental health facility or like agency AND at least one (1) year of experience providing individual or group therapy to individuals with mental illness (NOTE : experience can be obtained concurrently)
  • I have two or more years' supervised work experience providing direct psychological services in a mental health facility or like agency.
  • I do not possess either of the above work experience requirements.

    • 3100 - How did you hear about this opportunity?

  • Careers.wa.gov; jobs.doc.wa.gov; or governmentjobs.com
  • Indeed
  • DOC social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter)
  • Job / career fair
  • Job boards (Monster. ZipRecruiter, GlassDoor, CareerBuilder)
  • WorkSource
  • Veteran outreach
  • Referral from current DOC employee
  • Other

    • 3100 - If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? (The below link lists acceptable documents : https : / / www.uscis.gov / i-9-central / form-i-9-acceptable-documents)

    3100 - If hired for this position, will you require employer sponsorship, either now or in the future?

    Required Question

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