Mental Health Therapist (Foster Care)

JOB SUMMARY: This position has primary responsibility for mental health services (including assessment and evaluation) to Foster Care clients. The Mental Health Specialist provides mental health services to youth age 3 - 21 years old and to their families/caregivers. The Mental Health Specialist acts as liaison with external agencies and functions on teams with other clinical & support staff. The Mental Health Specialist documents and bills for clinical services, and completes outcome information. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS EducationMaster's degree in a Mental Health Field (psychology, social work, child care counseling or development preferred) plus two years experience in a mental health field and registration with the Board of Behavioral Sciences. ExperienceOne (1) year direct service experience with emotionally disturbed youth in an inpatient or outpatient health care setting required (student internship and/or practicum time may be substituted). License or Certification Registered with the Board of Behavioral Sciences as AMFT, ASW, APCC or Licensure (LMFT, LCSW or LPCC) in California Valid California Driver's License and automobile insurance and regular access to an automobile. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Provide mental health services including assessment and evaluation, psychotherapy, and case management to youth and their significant others engaged with the Foster Care System. 2. Works with referred clients and their families, school personnel, representatives of community agencies, and other relevant parties (in-house and external) to promote rehabilitation and amelioration of problems which interfere with productive social and emotional daily living. Acts as liaison with various external agencies (such as Department of Children and Family Services, Department of Behavioral Health Care Services , Probation Department, Dependency Court, and police) to facilitate youngsters’ adjustment in daily living routines. 3. Assists in preparing youngsters for lasting and successful academic and personal functioning. Services include a “whatever it takes” approach and include counseling, shadowing, training, modeling and other interventions deemed necessary to offer appropriate housing, vocational, educational, and treatment experiences. 4. Availability by phone to assist in crisis intervention and provide support and assistance in problem resolution. About our program: Our specialized therapeutic services are provided to youth who have experienced serious trauma and loss. Employing a strength-based, relational, and team approach, we offer a range of therapeutic and support services to foster care youth ranging in age from 3 to 21 years. Our foster care program is community based, provided to Alameda County youth placed within 90 miles of our San Leandro site. We specifically address issues relating to mental health, such as emotional dysregulation, depression and anxiety, coping with trauma, improving interpersonal relationships, and identifying and utilizing healthy coping skills. We also assist with building and maintaining independent living skills, including linking to housing, and providing support for a young person’s educational and vocational goals.