Psychological Services Specialist, DOC - SCI Pine Grove

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania•Indiana County, PA

12d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Corrections, State Correctional Institution at Pine Grove is seeking a highly motivated Psychological Services Specialist to join our Psychology Department. This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day by guiding individuals through various mental health challenges. The Department of Corrections is looking for individuals with the required experience who are interested in starting an exciting public service career.

Requirements

A master’s degree in psychology or a closely related field that includes fifteen graduate level credits in psychology or counseling.
Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within three months of graduating with a qualifying degree.
Successful completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, PA is required.
Must meet the PA residency requirement.
Must be able to perform essential job functions.
Must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.

Nice To Haves

Additional pay will be considered for those who currently possess or obtain licensure as a Social Worker, Clinical Social Worker, or Professional Counselor issued by the Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Counselors.

Responsibilities

Provide group therapy to address inmate adjustment challenges, emotional needs, and skill development.
Provide individual counseling to support inmates who present significant emotional disorders and agree to treatment.
Conduct interviews; administer, score, and interpret psychological tests; prepare initial reports; and refer or recommend referral of inmates to higher-level specialist support or testing if needed.
Prepare initial reports of inmate test results, capabilities, and academic achievement; prepare behavior modification plans and case formulations recommending therapy or counseling interventions.
Work with internal departments, outside agencies, and other state facilities to coordinate direct mental health services during and at release from incarceration.
Assist with research studies, guide student interns, help provide crisis intervention, and serve as a member of various institutional committees.