Jobs and Careers

DSHS WSH Behavioral Health Specialist 3

State of Washington

United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 22 Jul 2026

💰 $76,968/yr($57,252/yr – $76,968/yr)

About the role

Posting number: 2026-04287

Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services

Division: BHHA

Job classification: BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SPECIALIST 3

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Health Services, Mental Health, Social Services, Human Services, Counseling, Health Care Support

Summary

Western State Hospital, adult psychiatric hospital, has multiple full-time opportunities for Behavioral Health Specialists within the Psychiatric Treatment and Recovery Centers. Join us and make a positive impact within our community by becoming a behavioral health advocate while helping shape the future of health services for a safe and therapeutic environment.

Our Behavioral Health Specialist 3 job (formerly called Institution Counselor 3) is an exciting opportunity for a meaningful career where you have the ability to grow and enjoy the work you do. You'll plan, acquire supplies, implement, and review active treatment groups and one-on-one active treatment.

We have day shift jobs available in our Competency Restoration and Not Guilty By Reason of Insanity teams within the Gage Rehabilitation program. Any BHS3 jobs with weekend shifts will include only one of the weekend days as part of the schedule.

Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.

Evening hours include a shift differential in addition to the standard compensation rate.

Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.

Some of what you'll do

Actively engage patients in direct care, leading or co-leading Active Treatment Groups either on-ward and/or within the treatment mall setting.
Complete required active treatment documentation, including progress notes, interventions in treatment plans or addendums, and attendance records.
Develop comprehensive active treatment groups and individual treatment strategies for patient caseload using standard practices and evidence-based treatment for regular occurring events and one-time engagements.
Attend treatment team and daily team meetings to discuss progress, share input, and provide a strategy for patient treatment.
Research evidence-based practices and group preparation.
Order/gather supplies for groups, and escort patients to and from activities and groups.

Who should apply
Those with a bachelor’s degree, preferably involving a major in sociology, psychology, or another social science.
And
Two years of professional counseling or casework experience.

Or
Equivalent combination of education/experience.
Or
One year as a Behavioral Health Specialist 2.

Must have a current food handler permit.

Employees need to obtain and maintain an Agency Affiliated Counselor registration from the Washington State Department of Health within 30 days of employment as a condition of employment. More information can be found here.

Desired

Experience with Counseling/Teaching in a group setting.
In-depth working knowledge of group and individual behavior and dynamics.
Knowledge of behavioral health issues and recovery principles.
Knowledge of all hospital, state, and federal regulatory standards, policies, and procedures.
Ability to work with difficult or angry patients in a therapeutic, non-threatening manner.
Ability to use good judgment and self-direct under minimal supervision.
Proficient in oral, written, and electronic communication skills.

If you have questions about the application process, email Alex Baclaan, Recruiter, at alex.baclaan@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number 04287.

The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. I