Oversees advanced and diversified mental health services and programs for individuals with behavioral and mental health issues within a community. Develops and implements treatment plans, modifying them according to behavioral and emotional changes and needs of clients. Guides clients in the development of skills or strategies toward achieving and maintaining good mental health.
Experienced mental health clinicians who can independently apply relevant individual and group counseling techniques. Professional experience is gained subsequent to a master’s or more advanced degree in guidance, counseling or the social sciences. Provides general supervision of, or coordinates the activities of, other mental health clinicians.
Consults with state and regional staff regarding the assessment and diagnosis of clients and assists in developing appropriate treatment options. Supervises and advises subordinate staff concerning individual case diagnoses and treatment. Plans, develops and coordinates administrative and professional activities for psychological services. Conducts in-service training for professional staff. Participates in treatment team meetings. Formulates and develops patient treatment plans and programs. Provides advanced counseling in individual or group sessions to assist clients in dealing with mental illness and/or other difficulties in individual, family, vocational, social, or other life crises. Counsels or aids family members to assist them in understanding, dealing with, or supporting the client. Provides supplementary counseling services for individuals undergoing intensive psychiatric treatment elsewhere in a mental health program. Completes psychological testing. Conducts and leads discussion groups dealing with a variety of family and individual concerns. Assists in the planning and execution of mental health education programs for the general public. Performs specialized educational and training functions within the clinical setting as designated. Advises and directs subordinate counselors in the performance of their duties. Provides administrative and clinical supervision and leadership for program. Designs and directs research projects for critical incident management.
Practical therapeutic knowledge of principles, methods, counseling practices, and procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of behavioral and mental disorders. Knowledge of current psychological theory and practice. Ability to listen and understand and communicate information and ideas so that others will understand. Knowledge of psychopathology, family dynamics, individual, family and group psychotherapy. Ability to identify and effectively utilize resources available in the community to accomplish objectives. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with individuals, families and representatives of other professional disciplines. Ability to present clear and comprehensive oral and written reports. Ability to supervise, train and evaluate professional staff. Ability to coordinate research activities and evaluate research findings. Ability to communicate effectively with clients, program directors, agencies and the public.
Some positions may require a license in counseling.
A master’s degree in guidance, counseling, the social sciences or a related field and professional experience in a mental health, human service or social service program.