School Based Therapist

JOB DESCRIPTION: School Based Therapist

DEPARTMENT: Child and Adolescent

REPORTS TO: Outpatient Clinical Manager of Therapy

Summary:

The School-Based Therapist provides mental health and emotional support services to students within the school setting, collaborating with educators and families to promote students' overall well-being and academic success. A full-time, year around position in which school-based therapists are expected to maintain a therapy caseload during the summer through PHC Behavioral Health Outpatient youth referrals.

Responsibilities:

Individual and Group Therapy:

• Conduct individual and group therapy sessions with students addressing a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral challenges.
• Provide immediate support and intervention to students experiencing emotional or behavioral crises.
• Other relevant clinical tasks as needed within the organization.

Collaboration with School Staff:

• Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and other school personnel to identify student needs, develop individualized support plans, and implement interventions within the school environment.

Family Engagement:

• Engage with parents and guardians to provide support, education, and collaboration regarding students' mental health needs.

Assessment and Documentation:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of students' mental health needs, develop treatment plans, and maintain detailed and confidential records.

Consultation and Professional Development:

• Participate in school-wide initiatives, provide consultation to staff on mental health issues, and actively engage in professional development opportunities.

Qualifications:

Master’s degree in social work, counseling, psychology, or a related field. LPC or LCSW preferred. Candidates eligible for provisional licensure must provide proof provisional license within 90 days of hire. Demonstrated experience in providing individual and group therapy, preferably within a residential setting. Strong understanding of trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and behavior management strategies. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills. Commitment to ethical practice and client-centered care.

Preferred experience working with children and adolescents in a school setting or similar environment.

Strong clinical skills in individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, assessment, and case management. Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with students, families, and school staff.

Thorough understanding of child development, mental health disorders, and school-based interventions.