Director of Mental Health and Performance

The University of Kansas Health System•Lawrence, KS

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This position supports KU Athletics within Kansas Team Health, providing comprehensive, evidence-based mental health and performance services. The Director will create a mental health and performance program for student-athletes, encompassing education, expectant management, short-term psychotherapy/counseling, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

Requirements

Doctorate or PsyD in clinical, counseling, or health psychology from an APA-accredited doctoral program
1-year postdoctoral training in health psychology
APA-approved internship training with at least some focus on health psychology
5 or more years post graduate experience in working with professional and high level collegiate athletes in team sports, with a deep understanding of the demands and challenges they face.
Proven track record of working with athletes in team sports, preferably in a professional or collegiate setting.
Licensed Psychologist (LP) - State Board of Behavioral Sciences OR Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPC) - State Board of Behavioral Sciences
Valid, unrestricted driver’s license, Kansas Class C or equivalent.
MVR results must be in compliance with Health System Safe Driving Program Policy.
Candidate must have access to reliable, personal transportation.
Vehicle must carry insurance with at least the minimum automobile liability insurance levels required by the state(s) of operation.

Nice To Haves

Experience in the diagnostic assessment and the general treatment of patients
Experience working with patients who have suffered concussion/TBI, injury, chronic pain, disordered eating, ADHD, Alcohol, Drug, Sports performance along with Team and Group Therapy.
Experience as a student or professional athlete in a team sport environment.
Working collaboratively with other medical professionals and social service agencies

Responsibilities

Provide individual consultation (virtually or in person) with tools to enhance psychological performance on and off the court.
Collaborate with Coaches, staff, and Kansas Team Health to identify opportunities for collaboration to enhance player performance in practice and pre-game routines.
Develop psychologically-minded onboarding processes and relationships for incoming players to support their acclimation to the team and organizational culture.
Provide mental health/mental skills support to players experiencing the stress-response to injury and pursuit of return to competition.
Offer long-term injury management support to help players cope with any psychological challenges/behaviors that arise during their rehabilitation.
Facilitate coaching education opportunities utilizing theories of sport psychology and performance excellence in support of player development and skill acquisition.
Develop and curate resources for on-demand access covering topics associated with mental health and mental skills content accessible to players, coaches, and staff.
Manage mental health crises involving players and staff that warrant the activation of the Emergency Action Plan (EAP).
Perform professional, clinical, and/or technical competencies for student athletes covered by Kansas Team Health.
Provide health-related psychological assessment of behavioral and mental health needs for patients with post-concussive symptoms.
Provide therapy, consultation, and care commensurate with the presenting mental health concern.
Engage in consultation and referral when appropriate and necessary.
Provide education, consultation, and treatment for substance use issues/concerns.
Facilitate appropriate referrals with providers in the community for patients who need ongoing psychological services.
Provide CBT and/or other evidence-based interventions for target service areas including but not limited to: Adjustment to disability/diagnosis, Education regarding common emotional symptoms associated with concussion and expected recovery course, Depression & anxiety, Stress management and coping (e.g. mindfulness-based stress reduction), Chronic pain management, Insomnia, Therapeutic engagement and treatment compliance, Post-traumatic stress.
Provide education promoting and maintaining positive health and wellness behaviors.
Run group therapies as indicated.
Work collaboratively within Kansas Team Health.
Work effectively with other clinical services and outside collaborating facilities to facilitate effective continuum of patient care and follow up.
Develop, implement, and evaluate mental health policies, emergency response procedures, and best-practice protocols.
Ensure alignment with NCAA standards, as well as institutional commitments to student-athlete welfare and competitive excellence.
Supervise and guide clinical staff delivering mental health services within athletics.
Perform the professional, clinical, and or technical competencies of the assigned unit or department.