DSHS BHHA Psychologist- Forensic Evaluator

Full Job Description

DSHS BHHA Forensic Psychologist - in State 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.

We have openings for internal applicants in multiple applications across 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. Why DSHS?

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.

We offer outstanding compensation with a 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, and exciting chances to learn, grow, and enjoy the work. Forensic evaluators may choose to earn additional compensation (extra duty pay) for completing additional evaluations outside of normal work hours.

Some of what you will do.

• Complete forensic evaluations mostly focused on 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.

We are looking for team players who have a passion to work in the forensic mental health field, have a strong work ethic, and consistently display good judgment.

Our ideal applicant is an adaptable professional who can anticipate program needs and ensure the team is well prepared for day-to-day commitments.

They are comfortable navigating the system, policies, and procedures, and have in-depth knowledge of procedures of civil, criminal, or administrative hearings.

They also understand and navigate group and individual behavior dynamics with appropriate consideration for relevant cultural factors.

They are 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.

If this is your area of expertise and interest, we encourage you to apply! Who should apply?

• 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

The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work.

It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS.

We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.

Questions? Contact grant.grady@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number 01928.

Additional Information

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protect­ed veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.



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