MENTAL HEALTH THERAPIST

La Crosse County • La Crosse, WI

1d

About The Position

This is a professional Master’s degree–level clinical position within the Integrated Support & Recovery Services (ISRS) section of the La Crosse County Human Services Department. The primary role of this position is to provide clinical services to justice-involved individuals participating in re-entry programs. Responsibilities include conducting substance use assessments, delivering individual and group therapy, developing treatment plans, and providing ongoing support to promote successful community reintegration.
The employee will also offer mental health services for individuals experiencing needs such as suicide risk, crisis concerns, or other behavioral health challenges. Services may be delivered in correctional settings, community-based environments, or other locations aligned with business operations.
Administrative oversight is provided by the Outpatient Mental Health & Substance Abuse Clinic Administrator, in collaboration with re-entry program leadership and justice system partners. Clinical supervision will be provided as required for credentialing and professional development.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in social work, Psychology, Counseling, or a closely related field.
• Wisconsin clinical licensure (LCSW, LPC, LMFT) required or the ability to obtain prior to hire. Applicants with in‑training licenses (APSW, LPC‑IT, MFT‑IT) are encouraged to apply; clinical supervision toward full licensure is available.
• Must have training and demonstrate competence in substance use disorder (AODA) assessment and treatment, consistent with scope of practice.
• Must maintain licensure per Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services requirements.
• Proficiency in computer use and data entry.
• Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation.
• Experience in mental health or substance use treatment settings, preferably with justice-involved populations.
• Strong knowledge of clinical assessment, treatment planning, documentation standards, and evidence-based practices for mental health and substance use.
• Proficiency in suicide and substance use assessments and understanding of psychotropic medications.
• Ability to provide constructive clinical direction and support to staff and interns.

Nice To Haves

• Preference for someone who holds a Wisconsin Clinical Supervisory License.
• Familiarity with Motivational Interviewing or other evidence-based practices for co-occurring disorders.

Responsibilities

• Conducting substance use and mental health assessments and services to individuals incarcerated in the La Crosse County Jail and individuals associated with Outpatient Clinic.
• Develops and implements treatment plans based on clinical assessments to address identified mental health and substance use needs.
• Delivers counseling, therapeutic services, and care coordination in person or through telehealth; ensures accurate documentation, reporting, and charting.
• Provides clinical support, education, and training to part-time clinicians, social workers, and interns.
• Collaborates with the Re-Entry Coordinator to support transition planning and connection to community resources for individuals preparing for release.
• Participates as an engaged team member, contributing authentically to discussions and decision-making.
• May provide administrative supervision of interns, consistent with educational and licensure requirements.
• Demonstrates reliability by maintaining regular attendance and responsible use of leave.
• Based on jail needs and employee licensure, this role will support Integrated Support and Recovery Services (ISRS) programs (e.g., Outpatient Clinic, Crisis, Comprehensive Community Services) providing similar clinical services such as assessment, treatment planning, supervision, and counseling.
• This description is not exhaustive; other duties may be assigned as appropriate to meet business needs.

Benefits

• Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS): A top-rated pension program.
• Affordable Insurance Premiums: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick, and 10+ paid holidays annually.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible schedules and wellness programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level