Behavioral Health Therapist I (Foster Care)

UPMC•McKeesport, PA

12d

About The Position

The Behavioral Health Therapist I supports traditional and non-traditional foster care programs, partnering with children, families, foster caregivers, and community resources to promote stability, well-being, and positive treatment outcomes. This highly collaborative role involves extensive community-based work and frequent travel, coordinating care with county agencies, schools, healthcare providers, and other service partners to provide comprehensive, family-centered behavioral health services. The position is based out of locations in 15132 and Greensburg, Pennsylvania, but work is primarily in the field, using agency vehicles for field travel. The schedule is Monday through Friday, primarily during daylight hours, with flexibility to work evenings or overnight and be on call as needed; the schedule is adjusted for evening or overnight work. Business-casual attire is required, and employees pay for parking.

Requirements

Master's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Education in school counseling, or a related field, meeting the educational requirements defined in the practicing state's code.
Pass the examination required by 49.11 relating to licensure examination.
Sign a license agreement and actively work toward obtaining an LPC, LCSW, or LMFT license within 30 months of hire.
CPR certification.
Comprehensive Crisis Management (CCMC).
Act 31 Child Abuse Reporting, with renewal.
Act 33 clearance, with renewal.
Act 34 clearance, with renewal.
Act 73 FBI Clearance, with renewal.
Attach a copy of graduate-level transcripts for consideration.

Nice To Haves

One year of clinical experience.
Knowledge of the psychiatric evaluation and assessment process and application of the current version of the DSM.
Experience diagnosing and treating behavioral and psychiatric conditions.
Prior foster care experience.

Responsibilities

Participate in quality assurance and performance improvement activities.
Complete clinical documentation on the same day as service and provide information needed for service authorization.
Periodically review cases and serious clinical changes with supervisors and clinical personnel.
Assess changing patient needs and incorporate them into treatment plans.
Conduct new-patient assessments under supervision, document clinical decisions, and implement treatment models.
Provide individual and group therapy, engage families in treatment, and educate patients on recovery.
Document patient-related activities according to guidelines.
Discuss additional service needs with the clinical team and refer patients to appropriate care levels or community services.
Participate in treatment team meetings to discuss cases, update treatment plans, and monitor progress.
Maintain daily records of clinical productivity.
Create comprehensive treatment plans addressing a variety of patient needs.