Psychologist IV

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Boston, MA

13d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Mental Health (DMH) is seeking an experienced clinical professional to serve as the Psychologist IV for the Massachusetts Mental Health Center. The selected candidate will be responsible for performing diagnostic assessments, evaluations, and risk assessments for individuals seeking or receiving services in accordance with the DMH Risk Mitigation Policy and using standardized testing tools. They will provide individual and group counseling, therapy, psychological testing as well as develop and implement evidence-based treatment plans, make referrals, and coordinate clinical services. Additional responsibilities include supervising staff, leading programs, delivering trainings, and contributing to quality improvement initiatives.

Requirements

Ability to apply knowledge of the symptoms of mental and/or emotional disorders (including risk assessment).
Current and valid registration as a Psychologist by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Psychology.
Adept applying knowledge of assessment techniques including interview, psychological testing and neuropsychological testing.
Able to analyze observational, interview and psychological test data to draw conclusions.
Capable of applying knowledge of the theory, principles and practices of psychotherapy, evidence-based practices, motivational techniques, basic behavioral analysis and principles associated with reinforcement techniques.
Competent in applying the methods of general report writing, statistical methods and techniques including sampling.
Proficient in maintaining accurate records and managing confidential matters appropriately.
Skilled in communicating effectively in writing and oral expressions and provide consultation, training, supervision.
Ability to make decisions, act quickly and maintain calm in crisis situations with people who are under emotional and/or physical stress and collaborate effectively with others in group situations.
Comfortable supervising others by providing orientation, practical training, professional education, direction, workload management, performance evaluation and (as needed) disciplinary action.
Able to provide program leadership and to apply/explain the impact of laws, rules, regulation, policies, protocols, guidelines, etc. on program operations.
Knowledge of the ethical principles, and standards of practice of the Professional Psychologist treating individuals with serious mental illness.
A Doctorate in Psychology from school accredited by the American Psychological Association.
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.
At least one year of experience 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

Knowledge of policies, procedures, standards, rules and regulations governing assigned agencies.
Familiarity of the types and availability of public or private resources for providing quality care.
Knowledge of safety practices and procedures followed by the agency.

Responsibilities

Conduct specialized psychological assessments, including standardized tools, to evaluate high-risk behaviors such as self-harm, aggression, and impulsivity.
Perform risk assessments in accordance with DMH and Center standards.
Provide initial and periodic psychological assessments of adults, incorporating clinical condition, cognitive abilities, functional needs, and strengths.
Review and analyze assessment results to inform and adjust treatment planning.
Provide training and consultation on the administration and interpretation of psychological and behavioral assessments.
Develop and implement individualized treatment plans using evidence-based therapeutic interventions tailored to client needs.
Complete initial treatment plans within four weeks of assignment and review them annually.
Modify treatment plans within two weeks of significant clinical or situational changes.
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure coordinated, holistic care.
Offer expert consultation on evidence-based practice (EBP) selection and integration into treatment.
Monitor client progress and revise interventions based on assessments and feedback.
Provide individual therapy using evidence-based modalities specifically for people suffering from severe mental illness such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for psychosis, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Remediation and Social Skills training, as well as deliver behavior consultation and individualized behavioral therapy in accordance with accepted standards.
Provide crisis intervention and risk management strategies as needed.
Offer consultation on complex or high-risk cases to support clinical decision-making.
Maintain 100%25 accuracy in all client documentation.
Complete intake paperwork within one week of client assignment.
Meet 100%25 of DMH, MMHC, and third-party requirements for quality assurance and utilization review.
Document treatment plan progress, high-risk behaviors, consultations, medical results, and other significant clinical data in each appropriate encounter note (billable or non-billable).
Provide supervision and training to multidisciplinary staff and trainees, if assigned.
Deliver training on standardized assessments, EBPs or other specialized treatment interventions.
Collaborate with the Quality Management Committee to support clinical monitoring, in-service training, staff development, orientation, and supervision initiatives.
Participate in quality improvement projects to improve quality of service and reduce risk.
Perform other duties as assigned.