Description

We are hiring multiple Psychiatric Social Workers!

In this role, you will support patients in our Center for Forensic Services at Western State Hospital.

Our team offers innovative treatment for residents who are civilly committed, in need of competency restoration, or adjudicated not guilty by reason of mental diagnosis. Each residential unit helps shape the future of behavioral health, aligning with Washington State’s vision of community-based care. Treating residents in smaller facilities, we help them stay closer to home, family, and support systems, fostering stronger community connections.

As a Psychiatric Social Worker 3, you'll deliver innovative services such as psychiatric social work, case management, and group and individual therapy. You'll also collaborate within the legal system, create service linkages, and manage some discharge planning for our specialized patient population.

Western state hospital offers patients enriching opportunities and experiences outside the hospital setting, preparing them for a smooth transition back into the community. This is a great opportunity to be a team member and enhance behavioral health treatment in Washington State.

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.

Click "Apply" to get started.

Some of what you will do

• Work within a multidisciplinary team
• Identify specific risks and work to mitigate those risks in an effort towards patient recovery and to successfully transition patients back into the appropriate community setting
• Advocate on behalf of patients and work closely with Home and Community Services, Department of Corrections, and other community stakeholders
• Educate and counsel patients and their families about behavioral health issues, diagnoses, and prognoses
• Complete initial and ongoing documentation, such as discharge paperwork, psychosocial assessments, progress notes, and formulation of evidence-based treatment plans.

Who should apply

• Professionals with a master's degree from approved school of social work
  • And
• Two years of experience in counseling people who experience behavioral health issues
• Ability to obtain registration as an Agency Affiliated Counselor
• An independent clinical social work license is preferred

Why Join Us?

We partner with people to access support, care, and resources. DSHS employees make a difference in WA State every day by supporting sustainable recovery, independence, and wellness.

Interested or have questions? Apply today or contact reema.goyal@dshs.wa.gov and reference 06010.

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. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.

Supplemental Information

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

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