Behavioral Health Therapist (Licensed) (Grant-Funded) - Jail Based Services

Arlington County VA•Arlington, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Arlington County's Department of Human Services (DHS) is seeking a Behavioral Health Therapist (Licensed) to work in a dedicated restoration unit within a local jail setting. This role aims to help individuals found incompetent to stand trial (IST) become competent, thereby reducing reliance on state hospital admissions and improving case processing timelines. The therapist will engage detainees in psychoeducation, symptom management, and coordination with medical staff for psychotropic medication management, as well as provide education about the legal system and process. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of the criminal justice system and best practices in treating behavioral health needs, addiction, and substance use disorders. Arlington County is committed to providing client services in an effective, equitable, respectful, and trauma-informed manner, emphasizing cultural competency, sensitivity, and awareness of diverse client needs.

Requirements

Master's degree from an accredited college or university in a clinical discipline such as Counseling, Psychiatric Social Work, Psychology, or other directly related clinical discipline with internships and practicum requirements involving diagnostic, treatment application of diagnostic, and treatment services.
Possession of one of the following professional licenses from the Virginia Department of Health Professions: LPC, LCP, LMFT, or LCSW.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in a correctional setting
Experience in case management
Active Clinical License in the State of Virginia (LPC, LCP, LCSW)

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive clinical assessments of individuals identified as incompetent to stand trial (IST) to determine behavioral health needs and restoration readiness.
Develop and implement individualized competency restoration treatment plans.
Provide structured individual and group-based interventions focused on symptom stabilization, coping skills, and education on legal processes.
Monitor client progress toward competency and adjust treatment approaches as needed.
Coordinate with medical and psychiatric providers regarding evaluation, treatment planning, and psychotropic medication management.
Collaborate with Sheriff’s Office staff to support safe housing placement and behavioral management within the detention setting.
Partner with forensic discharge planners to develop and implement reentry and continuity of care plans.
Coordinate with attorneys, courts, and other judicial stakeholders to provide updates on client status and restoration progress.
Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation in the electronic health record in accordance with regulatory and grant requirements.
Track program outcomes and support data collection and reporting requirements associated with grant funding.
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to review cases, evaluate progress toward competency, and support program implementation.
Assist with crisis intervention and risk assessment, including evaluating the need for hospitalization or higher levels of care.
Support program development activities, including refining treatment approaches, workflows, and coordination processes for the restoration unit.
Maintain knowledge of applicable legal standards, clinical practices, and community resources to support effective service delivery.
Attend staff meetings to discuss procedural and administrative developments and difficult cases, as well as attending applicable training sessions, conferences, and workshops provided by the department and other agencies or organizations.