DSHS BHHA Psychology Associate

Full Job Description

DSHS BHHA – Psychology Associate (Behavior Specialist)
Join our team as a Psychology Associate (Behavior Specialist) in Shoreline with the Behavioral Health and Habilitation Administration’s (BHHA) State Operated Community Residential (SOCR) team, where you will play a vital role in supporting individuals with complex behavioral needs.

In this position, you will provide psychological and behavioral analysis services, including conducting functional assessments, developing and implementing positive behavior support plans, and assisting with crisis intervention efforts. You will also help assess and transition clients into the SOCR Transitions program while building the skills and confidence of staff and service providers to effectively support individuals in community-based settings. Working closely with interdisciplinary teams and community partners, your work will directly contribute to improving client outcomes, promoting stability, and enhancing quality of life.

Some of what you'll do:

• Conduct functional behavior assessments and develop, implement, and evaluate individualized positive behavior support plans for clients with complex behavioral needs.
  
• Provide professional oversight and consultation for behavior support services, addressing conditions such as mental health disorders, autism, dementia, substance use, and traumatic brain injury.
  
• Design and guide evidence-based interventions to reduce aggressive, destructive, or inappropriate behaviors while promoting pro-social and adaptive skills.
  
• Collect, track, and analyze behavioral data using systems such as Therap to monitor progress and inform treatment planning.
  
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, community providers, and families to coordinate services, address gaps, and support individuals in maintaining community-based placements.
  
• Deliver training, coaching, and technical assistance to staff and providers on positive behavior support strategies, including modeling interventions and evidence-based practices.
  
• Support crisis response efforts, review Exception to Rule and Exception to Policy requests, and participate in meetings, trainings, and continuous quality improvement activities.
  
  

Desired skills, knowledge, and abilities:

• Knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), positive behavior support principles, and functional behavior assessment, including development and evaluation of behavior support plans.
  
• Understanding of psychological principles, human development, and developmental disabilities, particularly as they relate to complex behavioral and mental health needs.
  
• Skill in designing, implementing, and evaluating effective behavioral interventions for individuals with developmental disabilities.
  
• Ability to analyze behavioral data, monitor outcomes, and make informed adjustments to support plans to improve client success.
  
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams, families, and community partners.
  
• Ability to provide training, coaching, and technical assistance using evidence-based practices in a variety of settings and formats.
  
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, maintain confidentiality, adapt to change, and work both independently and collaboratively.
  
  

Who should apply?
We are seeking professionals who have:

• A master’s degree in psychology or a closely related field from an accredited college or university.
  

Preferred qualifications:

• At least five (5) years of professional experience as a Psychology Associate or Behavioral Specialist working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  
  

Additional information:

• Work schedule: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
  
• King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary and are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use.
  
  

Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today!
Along with your application, please include:

• An updated resume
  
• Three professional references with contact information
  
  

Questions?
Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Ricky Luna at ricky.luna@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number #02751.


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.

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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