Program Director - Forensic Community Treatment Center

Job DetailsJob Location: FCTP - Los Angeles, CA 90005Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $140,000.00 - $150,000.00 Salary/yearJob Shift: Day


Title of Position:
Program Director


Location:
Forensic Community Treatment Center


Exempt/Non-Exempt:
Exempt


Union/ Non-Union:
Non-Union


Supervisor:
Administrative Director




 

Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center’s Conditional Release Program (CONREP) is seeking a Licensed Psychologist to fulfill the role of Program Director in its Forensic Community Treatment Program (FCTP). This forensic outpatient program provides court and parole-mandated treatment and supervision to individuals committed as Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity, Offender with a Mental Health Disorder, or Incompetent to Stand Trial.

 

SUMMARY OF POSITION

We are seeking an experienced, licensed psychologist to serve as Program Director of a fast-paced, multidisciplinary forensic outpatient treatment program. This is a leadership role for a psychologist who enjoys thinking critically, navigating complex forensic and clinical issues, and leading diverse professionals in collaborative, high-stakes work.

The Program Director provides oversight of all clinical and administrative aspects of the program, ensuring high-quality treatment, sound forensic practice, regulatory compliance, and effective team functioning. This role blends sound clinical judgment, forensic acumen, and strong leadership skills, and is well-suited for a psychologist who thrives in dynamic environments and values both accountability and teamwork.

Importantly, the Program Director is not expected to do this work alone. The position is supported by seasoned professionals, with access to consultation, guidance, and ongoing professional development.

 

ESSENTIALS DUTIES

 

Clinical Leadership and Oversight


Provide clinical supervision to multidisciplinary staff, including psychologists, therapists, and other treatment providers
Oversee treatment planning, case conceptualization, and implementation for a complex forensic outpatient population
Lead crisis intervention efforts and provide guidance on high-risk clinical situations
Conduct and oversee violence risk assessments and risk management strategies
Ensure clinical services meet ethical, professional, and forensic standards


Forensic and Court-Related Functions


Prepare, review, and oversee court reports addressing a variety of penal codes
Provide expert witness testimony as required
Ensure documentation is thorough, defensible, and compliant with legal and regulatory requirements


Administrative and Program Management


Oversee program operations, including recruitment, onboarding, training, and professional development of staff
Manage administrative functions such as timecards, scheduling, and workload distribution
Lead program development and continuous quality improvement initiatives
Ensure compliance with agency policies and Department of State Hospital guidelines
Monitor program outcomes and quality assurance metrics


Team Leadership and Collaboration


Lead and facilitate multidisciplinary treatment team meetings
Foster a collaborative, respectful, and accountable team culture across disciplines
Serve as a clinical and organizational leader, providing clear direction while valuing diverse perspectives


 
QualificationsQUALIFICATIONS

Required


Doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in Psychology
Current licensure as a psychologist in California
Experience in forensic mental health settings
Experience providing clinical supervision
Strong organizational, communication, and decision-making skills


Preferred


Prior experience in program leadership or management
Experience in violence risk assessment, crisis intervention, and forensic documentation
Experience providing expert testimony and working closely with courts
Familiarity with Department of State Hospital systems and related guidelines


 

REQUIREMENTS


Must pass Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), and Community Care Licensing (CCL) background clearance.
Valid California Driver’s license.
TB clearance.
Driving record acceptable for coverage by Gateways insurance carrier.


 

WHO WILL THRIVE IN THIS ROLE

This role is ideal for a psychologist who:


Enjoys complex cases and nuanced clinical and forensic decision-making
Thinks critically and communicates clearly, both verbally and in writing
Is comfortable taking leadership responsibility while remaining collaborative and approachable
Values mentorship, consultation, and ongoing professional growth
Can balance clinical excellence with administrative accountability


SUPPORT AND PROFESSIONAL ENVIRONMENT

The Program Director is supported by experienced professionals and leadership who value consultation, sh