DSHS DDA Psychology Associate

State of Washington • Clark County – Vancouver, WA

3d

About The Position

The Psychology Associate serves as a key member of the Region 3 Regional Clinical Team, providing clinical problem-solving, positive behavior support, and specialized assistance to individuals with co-occurring intellectual disabilities and mental health needs. This role delivers clinical consultation and support for individuals served by DDA who may experience behavioral health instability or are at risk of residential disruption or institutionalization. Core responsibilities include conducting functional assessments, developing and consultation regarding positive behavior support principles and strategies, and designing individualized interventions for those with complex presentations. Working within a multidisciplinary regional team, the Psychology Associate offers consultation, training, and technical assistance to individuals, their families and caregivers, DDA staff, and community providers. The position strengthens systemwide capacity to support individuals with complex behavioral health challenges across settings such as within an individual’s own home, community and state hospital facilities, DDA habilitation centers, evaluation and treatment centers, and jails. The role reports to the Region 3 Clinical Team Manager and collaborates closely with Regional Clinical Team members, Field Services, and DDA leadership. Note: This position within Region 3 will primarily serve the southern counties surrounding and within Clark County.

Requirements

• Master's or doctoral degree in psychology, social work, mental health counseling, school psychology or marriage and family therapy from an accredited school.
• Within 30 days of hire, a certification as an Agency Affiliated Counselor in the State of Washington must be obtained or an active WA State license as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor.

Responsibilities

• Lead Regional Clinical Team activities by planning, developing, organizing, and participating in multidisciplinary clinical support efforts.
• Provide person-centered behavioral support through behavior analysis, data-collection systems, and identification of positive behavior interventions.
• Conduct Functional Assessments and develop Positive Behavior Support Plans and Cross System Crisis Plans for individuals with support needs.
• Train caregivers and direct support professionals to implement Positive Behavior Support Plans and intervention strategies effectively.
• Review restrictive procedure requests and provide recommendations to the ETP Committee members regarding Exception to Policy supports.
• Evaluate and revise support plans to ensure interventions remain effective, appropriate, and person-centered.
• Consult regarding the training of staff in behavior intervention techniques and collaborate with team members to ensure coordinated and appropriate services.
• Assess consultation effectiveness through structured follow-up activities to improve behavioral support outcomes.
• Stay current on national best practices related to community-based care and positive behavior supports.

What This Job Offers

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