UNIV – Director for Counseling & Psychological Services

Medical University of South Carolina•Charleston, SC

About The Position

The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) invites applications for a visionary, collaborative, and student-centered leader to serve as Director of Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) and Co Director of Student Health & Wellbeing Care within the Division of Education Innovation & Student Life (EISL). This role offers an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of behavioral health and wellbeing for MUSC’s diverse and highly motivated student population. Reporting to the Associate Provost for EISL, the Director provides strategic leadership, clinical expertise, and operational oversight for a comprehensive, integrated behavioral health clinic that delivers both in person and virtual services. The Director also serves as a key institutional partner, consulting with academic and administrative leaders to promote a culture of wellness, resilience, and student success. Aligned with MUSC’s strategic plan, EISL is dedicated to fostering a safe, healthy, inclusive, and supportive environment that empowers students to thrive academically, personally, and professionally. Candidates may be considered for an Affiliate Faculty Appointment at the discretion of the Chair.

Requirements

Education Ph.D. in Clinical or Counseling Psychology or a Psy.D. from an APA accredited program. Completion of an APA accredited clinical internship.
License/Certification Licensed for independent practice in South Carolina. Authorized or eligible for interjurisdictional practice under PSYPACT.
Experience A minimum of three years (five preferred) of post licensure clinical experience with demonstrated expertise in evidence-based assessment and treatment for adults.
Clinical supervision of staff and/or trainees.
Strong consultation and interpersonal communication skills.
Leadership and management experience in behavioral healthcare settings.
Experience in college student mental health or collaborative work aligned with college health missions.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with students from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences.
Broad experience in mental health care delivery and psychoeducation.
Proven ability to conceptualize, develop, and implement complex projects.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to analyze data and use metrics to inform decision making.
High standards of personal ethics, professional integrity, and moral judgment.

Nice To Haves

Administrative leadership and fiscal management experience.
Experience working in multidisciplinary, collaborative care environments.
Ability to anticipate emerging needs and develop innovative solutions.

Responsibilities

Clinical Services to Students & Consultation – 70%
Direct Clinical Services Function as an independent credentialed member of the MUSC healthcare staff. Conduct mental health assessments, develop treatment plans, and provide evidence based therapeutic interventions for individual students and couples. Complete mandated evaluations for MUSC students and prepare summaries and recommendations for Deans, Progress Committees, BSIT, and other stakeholders.
Clinical Consultation, Supervision & Education Provide expert clinical consultation to CAPS professional staff on patient care and complex decision making. Deliver clinical supervision for Psychiatry Residents, Fellows, and other trainees, including regular review of treatment planning, patient progress, and documentation. Consult with academic leaders and the Behavioral Support and Intervention Team regarding students with acute or chronic mental health concerns. Develop educational resources and deliver presentations on mental health topics for students, faculty, and staff. Collaborate with CAPS clinicians to ensure coordinated, high quality care for students of concern.
Administration: Leadership, Mentoring & Supervision – 15%
Establish and communicate a compelling departmental vision aligned with MUSC and EISL priorities. Lead strategic planning for CAPS, including goal setting, outcomes assessment, and resource planning. Recruit, mentor, and retain a diverse, highly skilled clinical team committed to serving a diverse student body. Oversee the design, delivery, and continuous improvement of mental health services for MUSC students. Direct daily operations of the CAPS clinic, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and exceptional service quality. Provide clinical and administrative supervision for professional staff and the RN/Office Manager. Partner closely with the Director of Student Health Services to advance an integrated model of student wellbeing. Coordinate with EISL leadership, the Department of Psychiatry, and EISL Finance on contractual services for Attending Psychiatrists. Assess staff training needs and prioritize professional development opportunities. Manage budget priorities, monitor expenditures, and ensure responsible stewardship of resources. Review utilization data to evaluate service effectiveness and provider caseloads. Ensure compliance with national legal, ethical, and professional standards for patient care, documentation, confidentiality, and clinic operations.
Service: Institutional & Community Engagement – 5%
Serve on university committees and participate in EISL Directors’ meetings, Student Advisory Council, and other assigned groups. Collaborate with CAPS clinics across South Carolina and nationally to share best practices. Build partnerships with MUSC and state mental health programs to enhance coordinated care. Participate in university and college orientation activities. Contribute to accreditation processes for MUSC’s six colleges, including the College of Medicine GME Psychiatry Residency and Child Fellowship Programs.
Scholarship: Presentations, Publications & Professional Development – 5%
Engage in scholarly activities, including conference presentations and workshops related to behavioral health in higher education. Participate in grant applications and other funding opportunities when appropriate.
Other Duties – 5%
Perform additional responsibilities as assigned to support the mission of EISL and MUSC.