0000006199.PSYCHOLOGIST III (ASST\. CHIEF).TJPC - STATE AID

Provides supervision and management to staff to ensure that comprehensive psychological services are provided to the juvenile justice system to include assessments, evaluations, psychotherapy, crisis intervention and consultation; assists the Courts and probation officers in making disposition plans and decisions; and assists youths and families with emotional, social and legal adjustments. Management Scope: Supervises or Assist in supervising exempt/non-exempt and part-time staff.Fulfills duties of Chief Psychologist in his/her absence. Oversees all psychological assessments and evaluations by coordinating the assessment unit to ensure that court deadlines are met and services are provided in a timely fashion. Conducts psychological testing and evaluations using clinical interviews, assessment instruments, observation, records review and other available methods as needed. Administers and interprets psychological tests. Provides diagnosis and recommendations for intervention to guide court disposition and case management. Prepares written reports within the prescribed time frame, provides direct clinical care to clients and families as needed. Provides psychological evaluations and diagnostic studies with regard to discretionary transfer motions as well as Chapter 55 hearings in order to address issues of mental competency, mental illness, and mental retardation. Supervises psychological services provided by practicum students and staff as needed. Process therapy and assessment cases, assisting in determining diagnostic and clinical recommendations. Reviews all written reports for completeness and accuracy. Provides direct observation and technical assistance as needed. Provides individual, family and group psychotherapy (i.e. anger management, family training group, specialized treatment for youth with sexual behavior problems) to address the emotional needs of the juvenile justice population in order to enhance family functioning while reducing family conflicts and stress. Provides on-call emergency crisis intervention services (24-hour, 7 day per week basis) to all institutions within the juvenile justice system. A rotating staffing schedule is used throughout the year. Provide courtroom testimony as an expert witness. Subpoenas are common and testimony on issues related to psychological assessment and therapeutic interventions are expected. Provide psychological consultation to the courts, administrators, probation officers, institutions, and community agencies regarding case management and effective therapeutic intervention with juvenile officers. Ensure that all staff abide by the ethical standards and principles as set forth by the American Psychological Association. Performs other duties as assigned by the Deputy Director of Clinical Services.Minimum Qualifications: Education, Experience and Training: Psy.D. or Ph.D. in Clinical or Counseling Psychology from the American Psychological Association (APA) or an accredited institution of higher education. Three (3) years post-licensure clinical experience in psychology service, including two (2) years supervisory experience in the field of psychology. Licensed by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists. Licensed or license-eligible as a Sex Offender Treatment Provider. Special Requirements/Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Must be knowledgeable about psychological theories and interventions, psychometrics, diagnostic criteria as outlined in the most current version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, psychological assessment instruments, report writing, federal, state and local laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures and applicable professional psychological standards and procedure, child and adult development, Texas family code, Texas occupational code (Psychologist), Texas Psychologists Licensing Act, APA ethical standards, relevant mental health, sex offender and substance abuse issues and protocols, treatment issues pertaining to juveniles, families and evidenced based principles and practices. Must be skilled in preparing and maintaining accurate records, files and reports, interacting with all levels of management, employees and outside contacts, strategic planning, developing, monitoring and evaluating clinical programs and services, prepare administrative and statistical reports, use of psychological evaluation and assessment instruments, interpreting diagnostic evaluations and assessing behaviors, providing crisis intervention and management services, supervising and training staff on clinical and administrative matters, providing individual, group and family therapies. Must possess a valid Texas Driver’s License, with a good driving record. Must pass an extensive background investigation. Mandatory drug testing prior to employment and will be subject to random, unannounced drug and/or alcohol testing during employment. Note: “An elected official/department head may hire employees and pay them below the minimum salary rate for the position, if the elected official/department head believes the employee will be able to meet the minimum qualifications for the position within a defined period, which typically should not exceed 12 months. The salary grade for the position is reduced by one grade for each requirement not met by the applicant.” “Position requires working with juveniles who may have committed dangerous/aggressive acts; should possess a high tolerance for working in an emotionally demanding/stressful work environment.” Physical/Environmental Requirements: Standard office environment. Must be able to visit various off-site locations.