Psychological Assessor

Psychological Assessor - Correctional Health

Primary Purpose
Psychological assessment and treatment planning for Dallas County Jail inmates developing interventions appropriate to the correctional clinical setting.

Minimum Specifications

Education

• Must have a Master's degree in Counseling, Psychology or a related field.
• Experience
• Must have two years of experience in psychological/psychiatric intake and diagnostics.

Equivalent Education and/or Experience

Certification/Registration/Licensure

• Must have one of the following licensures:
• Licensed Psychologist by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychology.
• Licensed Professional Counselor by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors.

Required Tests for Placement

Skills or Special Abilities

• Requires competency in psychological assessment, diagnosing psychiatric conditions and treatment planning.
• Must be able to demonstrate effective interpersonal skills and possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of evidence-based assessment tools and crisis management techniques.
• Sensitivity and empathy when dealing with individuals in crisis and from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Understanding of the unique challenges and dynamics of working within a jail environment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive mental health assessments of incarcerated individuals identified as high risk/high acuity and patients experiencing a psychiatric crisis situation seven days a week.
• Consult and collaborate with other mental health professionals, medical professionals, and correctional staff to ensure comprehensive care.
• Utilize evidence-based assessment tools and techniques to evaluate the severity of suicidal ideation and behavior.
• Implement appropriate safety measures and interventions to prevent harm to individuals in crisis.
• Assess and document relevant factors such as mental health history, current stressors, and protective factors.
• Provide education and support to incarcerated individuals regarding coping skills, anger management, and conflict resolution.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of assessments, treatment plans, and progress notes.
• Stay updated on the latest research and best practices in trauma-informed care, suicide risk assessment, prevention, and crisis intervention.
• Participate in case conceptualization and discussion with the crisis stabilization team for collective problem-solving.
• Maintain knowledge of applicable rules, regulations, policies, laws, and guidelines that impact discipline. Develop effective internal controls that promote adherence to applicable state/federal laws and the program requirements of accreditation agencies and federal, state, and private health plans. Seeks advice and guidance as necessary to ensure proper understanding.
• Identify ways to improve work processes and improve patient satisfaction. Makes recommendations to supervisor, implements, and monitors results as appropriate in support of the overall goals of Parkland Correctional Health.
• Conduct Dangerousness Risk Assessment on inmates to determine the appropriate level of care and housing assignment.
• Conduct substance abuse assessment to determine the impact substance use has on current mental health, including referral to medical staff in cases of physical withdrawal.