Mental Health Professional

Full Job Description

Salary to commensurate with qualifications

The Sheriff’s Office provides public safety at all times and therefore every position is deemed essential. All positions are in-person and not eligible for remote work. Every position is also subject to recall based on the needs of the Office to keep the community safe.

This position has an anticipated work schedule of Sunday – Wednesday, 10:00am – 8:00pm or Monday - Thursday, 10:00am - 8:00pm, subject to change.

Responsible for coordinating and providing mental health care to inmates at the El Paso County Criminal Justice Center (CJC). Provides clinical services under the direction of a Licensed Mental Health Director. This position is subject to contract funding.

Requirements

• Provides interim mental health care for court identified competency concerned inmates awaiting transfer for restoration services.
• Follows up with referrals regarding mental health, acute psychosis, substance abuse, cognitive issues, or TBI related histories.
• Develops, administers, and documents client treatment plans; makes referrals for psychiatric appointments.
• Completes behavioral health assessments using approved screening tools.
• Coordinates care for competency concerned inmates with State Forensic Navigators.
• Develops individualized transition plans.
• Facilitates and documents psychoeducation and therapy groups.
• Provides crisis intervention services for inmates at CJC.
• Routinely follows up with inmates experiencing behavioral health and/or substance related concerns.
• Participates in staff meetings and ongoing training.
• Performs other duties as required.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Working knowledge of community organizations and behavioral health resources.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to write and maintain accurate records and reports to meet management objectives.
• Skill in prioritizing and organizing multiple tasks and the ability to complete projects in a timely manner. Ability to respond in a flexible manner and reprioritize work as situations change.
• Ability to communicate, motivate, and organize projects among a broad spectrum of personnel and community partners region-wide, frequently under deadline pressure.
• Skill in demonstrating a cooperative, professional attitude to cultivate relationships both within and outside the organization.
• Ability to demonstrate critical thinking and sound judgment by taking appropriate actions regarding questionable findings or concerns.
• Ability to exercise discretion and maintain high levels of confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Ability to perform under pressure and when confronted with persons acting under stress.
• Skill in using a computer and various software packages including Microsoft Office.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance.

Required Education and Experience:

• Master's degree in human behavioral science, social science, or related field from an accredited college or university.
• Any equivalent combination of related education and work experience that satisfy the requirements of the job will be considered.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Experience working in a jail or correctional facility.

Licenses/Certificates:

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) preferred.
• Must obtain and maintain Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) Compliance within six months of employment.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

• Must pass conditional post offer background investigation, truth verification examination, motor vehicle record check, Tuberculosis testing, and drug screen.

Additional Information

Duties are primarily performed in an office environment to include a detentions facility; some travel may be required. May encounter some hazards to personal safety through contact with potentially violent inmates. Must be available to work variable hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed. Sheriff’s Office employees must complete tuberculosis testing as applicable to the specific position prior to job assignment and periodic testing thereafter.