Intake and Eligibility Psychologist

Commonwealth of Massachusetts • Waltham, MA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is seeking a full-time Intake and Eligibility Psychologist to join our Metro Regional Office. This role will provide clinical assessment and evaluation at the request of the Regional Director or designee, including participation in eligibility determinations, competency evaluations, emergency case reviews and other specialized clinical assessments and evaluations. The Intake and Eligibility Psychologist will also maintain a current working knowledge of professional developments in the field, trends, policies and procedures, diagnosis of Intellectual and Developmental Disability, and related subjects. The position is located at the Department's Metro Regional Office in Waltham. As a representative of the Department, the Intake and Eligibility Psychologist may be asked to participate in inter-agency collaborative efforts and perform other related work as required.

Requirements

• Knowledge about Positive Behavior Supports and current treatment strategies for individuals with ID and/or ASD.
• Knowledge of the types, symptoms, and presentation of emotional and psychiatric disorders in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of tests and measurements used in ascertaining intelligence, aptitudes, personality, and related mental and physical traits.
• Be well versed in the administration and interpretation of psychological tests, motivational interviewing, autism experience across the lifespan, trauma informed care.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and exercise discretion in handling confidential information; resolve problems and conflicts in a diplomatic and tactful manner.
• Skilled in establishing rapport and dealing tactfully with individuals and their family members from varied religious, ethnic, cultural, economic backgrounds, and/or under physical, emotional stress, or in stressful settings.
• Demonstrated thoroughness, independence, and excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to seek guidance and support, take direction from supervisors and clinical consultants when needed.
• Applicants must have a Doctorate in Psychology from school accredited by the American Psychological Association.
• Applicants must also have at least three years of years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience as a Licensed Psychologist in the application of psychological principles and techniques in a recognized agency providing psychological services or treatment, of which (B) at least one year must have included supervision over Post-doctoral Psychologists-in-training and/or Psychological Assistants.
• Current and valid registration as a Psychologist by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Psychology.
• Based on assignment, must meet the eligibility requirements for Designated Forensic Psychologist in 104 CMR 33.04(3)(b).
• Based on assignment, travel may be required. Those employees who elect to use a motor vehicle for travel must have a current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator's license or the equivalent from another state.

Nice To Haves

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of policy and procedures pertaining to individuals served by DDS.
• Knowledge of the DDS and generic programs, services, and resources available to individuals with developmental disabilities and ASD only.
• Knowledge of the laws, rules, regulations, polices, procedures, specifications, standards, and guidelines governing assigned duties.
• Proficient usage of Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, and Outlook

Responsibilities

• Provides overall clinical leadership to the Regional Eligibility Team, including training on the definition of intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder and a host of various genetic conditions.
• Provides direction and guidance to Eligibility Team Specialists and the Eligibility Team Coordinator regarding the collection of structured and non-structured observational data related to adaptive functioning.
• Reviews all historical records and reports, including summaries prepared by Eligibility Specialists, to determine the need for new assessments of intellectual and/or adaptive behavior functioning.
• Participates in all appeals of eligibility determinations in conjunction with designated Regional Manager
• Works collaboratively with Regional Nursing Home Specialist on determination of eligibility for Nursing Facility candidates.
• Demonstrate the knowledge that Positive Behavior Supports (PBS) consists of a mix of proactive, preventive strategies and evidence-based interventions that help decrease challenging behavior and maintain a stable environment for all.
• Maintains knowledge of professional developments in the fields of psychological assessment, diagnosis of developmental disabilities, PBS, and related subjects.
• Participates in Statewide Peer Review Committee meetings on a monthly basis. This involves reviewing plans and participating in the written documentation of the committee's response.
• Chairs the Metro Regional Peer Review Committee to review proposed behavior plans and continues to participate in statewide reviews as needed.
• Consults with provider clinicians and DDS staff (e.g., Area Office Clinical Directors, Human Rights Specialists, MRS clinicians) on PBS related topics and clinical issues as needed.
• Provide feedback on targeted and intensive plans as needed.
• Participates in statewide PBS meetings and activities.
• Shares PBS trainings/updates/guidance documents to clinical/regional/area staff.
• Writes necessary reports and performs analyses of patterns and trends regarding eligibility applications and determinations as directed.
• Demonstrates the knowledge that PBS consists of a mix of proactive, preventive strategies and evidence based interventions that help decrease challenging behavior and maintain a stable environment for all.
• Develops agenda and chairs regular regional PBS clinical meetings for DDS and DDS adjunct staff.
• Performs related duties as required

Benefits

• Comprehensive Benefits
• When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
• Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees