DSHS BHHA Psychologist- Forensic Evaluator

State of Washington • Pierce County – Lakewood, WA

1d

About The Position

Are you interested in the intersection of psychology and the law? Be part of our team that provides answers to psycho-legal questions from the courts in Washington state! The State is divided into two major regions responsible for completing evaluations in county jails, local communities, and at state hospitals, on the east and west sides of the State. The Office of Forensic Mental Health Services (OFMHS) oversees the state’s adult forensic mental health system. This work supports the mission to transform forensic mental health throughout Washington state by partnering with community stakeholders to provide support to individuals struggling with mental illnesses who have become involved in the criminal justice system. In this role, you will work in a collegial environment that fosters a collaborative, supportive team that specializes in the application of psychological knowledge and expertise within the court system. You will become an integral member of a dedicated team committed to completing various forensic evaluations and will receive tremendous support from the team. Your daily tasks involve completing evaluations for the court that range in degrees of complexity, providing court testimony, and collaborating with fellow staff members. As a Psychologist - Forensic Evaluator at OFMHS, you will receive ongoing supervision and training to ensure your professional development and success in this role. You will have potential opportunities to participate in and contribute to the practicum training program, APA-accredited internship, and forensic fellowship program that provide hands-on experience and mentorship under the guidance of our seasoned team of experts. The agency, through the internship and fellowship structure, provides opportunities for continuing education for licensed psychologists with a wide variety of topics salient to clinical and forensic practice. OFMHS is committed to fostering the growth of emerging professionals in the field of forensic psychology and allowing applicants at different career stages to contribute and advance their careers. Washington state is unparalleled in natural beauty, including ready access to the coastline, mountains, and lush forests. There are miles of hiking trails, large and small concert venues, and amazing food, and major metropolitan areas of Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane cities provide region-wide opportunities to engage in arts and culture.

Requirements

• A Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Ph.D.)
• Licensed or able to obtain a license to practice psychology in Washington prior to start.
• Strong clinical skills in interviewing, diagnostic clarification, and report writing
• Experience in conducting competency to stand trial evaluations
• Knowledge and experience with psychometric testing, instruments used to assess feigning and response validity, competency, and risk assessment measures
• Interest in writing evidence based, concise evaluations and providing expert testimony
• Ability to establish collegial relationships with internal and external partners
• Team players who have a passion to work in the forensic mental health field, have a strong work ethic, and consistently display good judgment.
• Adaptable professional who can anticipate program needs and ensure the team is well prepared for day-to-day commitments.
• Comfortable navigating the system, policies, and procedures, and have in-depth knowledge of procedures of civil, criminal, or administrative hearings.
• Understand and navigate group and individual behavior dynamics with appropriate consideration for relevant cultural factors.
• Self-starters, problem solvers with stellar interpersonal and communication skills and can handle several competing priorities, people, tasks, and projects, at the same time in their daily interactions.

Responsibilities

• Primary focus will be completing forensic risk assessments
• Complete other types of forensic evaluations such as competency to stand trial but also evaluations related to mental state at the time of the offense.
• Work, consult, and collaborate with forensic evaluators across the state of Washington.
• Prepare for and provide expert witness testimony regarding the forensic evaluations as requested or subpoenaed by the courts.
• Submit forensic evaluation reports to the court, which include analysis of relevant data and facts, and formulation of psycho-legal opinions regarding the questions posed in the court order.

Benefits

• outstanding compensation
• flexible work schedule
• comprehensive medical, vision, & dental benefits package
• paid holidays
• vacation/sick time earned monthly
• retirement and pension plans
• amazing and challenging career opportunities
• exciting chances to learn, grow, and enjoy the work
• ongoing supervision and training
• potential opportunities to participate in and contribute to the practicum training program, APA-accredited internship, and forensic fellowship program
• opportunities for continuing education for licensed psychologists with a wide variety of topics salient to clinical and forensic practice.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree