Psychological Assessor PRN
Parkland Health
About The Position
The Psychological Assessor provides psychological assessment and treatment planning for Dallas County Jail inmates, developing interventions appropriate to the correctional clinical setting. The role conducts mental health assessments for individuals identified as high risk or high acuity, as well as patients experiencing psychiatric crises, and helps determine appropriate care and housing assignments. The assessor collaborates with mental health professionals, medical professionals, correctional staff, and the crisis stabilization team to support comprehensive care.
Requirements
- Master's degree in Counseling, Psychology, or a related field.
- Two years of experience in psychological or psychiatric intake and diagnostics.
- Must hold one of the following: Licensed Psychologist by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychology, or Licensed Professional Counselor by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors.
- Competency in psychological assessment, diagnosing psychiatric conditions, and treatment planning.
- Effective interpersonal skills and excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong knowledge of evidence-based assessment tools and crisis management techniques.
- Sensitivity and empathy when working with individuals in crisis and from diverse backgrounds.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Understanding of the unique challenges and dynamics of working within a jail environment.
Responsibilities
- Conduct comprehensive mental health assessments of incarcerated individuals identified as high risk or high acuity and patients experiencing a psychiatric crisis, seven days a week.
- Consult and collaborate with mental health professionals, medical professionals, and correctional staff to ensure comprehensive care.
- Use evidence-based assessment tools and techniques to evaluate the severity of suicidal ideation and behavior.
- Implement appropriate safety measures and interventions to prevent harm to individuals in crisis.
- Assess and document relevant factors, including mental health history, current stressors, and protective factors.
- Provide education and support to incarcerated individuals regarding coping skills, anger management, and conflict resolution.
- Maintain accurate and confidential records of assessments, treatment plans, and progress notes.
- Stay updated on research and best practices in trauma-informed care, suicide risk assessment, prevention, and crisis intervention.
- Participate in case conceptualization and discussion with the crisis stabilization team for collective problem-solving.
- Maintain knowledge of applicable rules, regulations, policies, laws, and guidelines that impact discipline; develop effective internal controls promoting adherence to applicable laws and program requirements; and seek advice and guidance as needed.
- Identify opportunities to improve work processes and patient satisfaction, make recommendations to the supervisor, and implement and monitor results as appropriate in support of Parkland Correctional Health's goals.
- Conduct Dangerousness Risk Assessments to determine appropriate levels of care and housing assignments.
- Conduct substance abuse assessments to determine the impact of substance use on current mental health, including referring individuals to medical staff in cases of physical withdrawal.
