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Social Work / Counselor IV (Behavioral Health Specialist) - Marvin Foote Youth Services Center

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Social Work / Counselor IV (Behavioral Health Specialist) - Marvin Foote Youth Services Center

Salary

$85,044.00 Annually

Location

Centennial, CO

Job Type

Full Time

Job Number

IKA 00834 04/16/2025

Department

Colorado Department of Human Services

Division

OCYF - Marvin W. Foote Youth Services Center

Opening Date

04/29/2025

Closing Date

5/11/2025 8:00 AM Mountain

FLSA

Determined by Position

Type of Announcement

This position is open only to Colorado state residents.

Primary Physical Work Address

13500 E. Fremont Place, Centennial Co, 8112

FLSA Status

Exempt; position is not eligible for overtime compensation.

Department Contact Information

[email protected]

How To Apply

Please submit an online application for this position at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/colorado. Reach out to the Department Contact to apply using a paper application, including any supplemental questions. Failure to submit a complete and timely application may result in the rejection of your application. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that application materials are received by the appropriate Human Resources office before the closing date and time listed.

+ Description

+ Benefits

+ Questions

Department Information

This position is open to current Colorado residents only.

Please note: This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies at the locations below.

Most State of Colorado employees are eligible for a great benefit package! Please see the Supplemental Information section below for details! (https://dhr.colorado.gov/state-employees/state-of-colorado-employee-benefits)

Division of Youth Services - Marvin Foote Youth Services Center

About the Division of Youth Services:

The Division of Youth Services (DYS) provides a continuum of residential and non-residential services that encompass juvenile detention, commitment, and parole. DYS is the agency statutorily mandated to provide for the care and supervision of youth committed by the District Court to the custody of the Colorado Department of Human Services. The Division operates fifteen secure facilities that serve youth between the ages of 10 and 21, who are pre-adjudicated, sentenced, or committed. The Division also contracts with numerous private residential and non-residential service providers throughout the State. For pre-adjudicated youth, the Division is also responsible for the management and oversight of Colorado Youth Detention Continuum, a State-funded, locally administered program that provides services to youth at risk of further progressing into the juvenile justice system. In addition to residential programming, the Division administers juvenile parole services throughout the State.

We invite you to explore the DYS website and learn about the services provided to youth, families, and local communities in the State of Colorado at: https://www.colorado.gov/cdhs/dys

Description of Job

Summary of Work Unit:

It is the mission of the Division of Youth Services to effectively build skills and competencies of youth to become responsible citizens. The Social Work series and other identified Behavioral Health Specialists employed by the facility are responsible for providing evidence based and research supported therapeutic intervention services to youth committed and detained with the Division of Youth Services at Marvin Foote Youth Services Center. Behavioral Health Specialists are expected to provide for the therapeutic care of and support opportunities for positive growth and change for youth and their caregivers, to ensure healthy and successful reintegration back into our communities. This position provides consistent leadership and management in the area of mental health and substance abuse services and behavioral interventions in the facility. These positions maintain and support an integrated treatment model with transition staff, client management, mental health services, medical, special education, security staff and administration as needed. As a Behavioral Health Specialist within our facility they are expected to remain current on literature and research in the field, especially as relates to emerging practices with complex mental health populations and behavioral and sensory interventions.

Positions within this work unit are expected to function as a mental health professional with competence confirmed by licensure, experience and expertise beyond basic knowledge and understanding of general mental health issues. It implements decisions, makes recommendations, and evaluates cases based on practice, theory, evidenced based principle, and experience at an advanced level confirmed by licensing. The position is expected to bring clinical support and monitoring to behavioral health clinicians and staff within the facility and unit. The work unit provides services that include support of clinical services, development of strength-based treatment plans, individual, family, and group therapy, and thorough knowledge and training regarding HIPAA, confidentiality, transition and integration of care within a multi-disciplinary approach.

Summary of the position:

This position exists to provide behavioral health clinical services to committed and detained youth in the facility that experience complex mental health, trauma, substance abuse, aggression and other related issues. This position also provides oversight for the substance use psychoeducation services and internship / practicum program. Services are provided consistent with DORA requirements and mental health training, services include: clinical assessment, service planning, individual, group counseling, record keeping and service coordination with a Multi- disciplinary team.

This position provides direct services to youth, including individual and group services as well as oversight of daily behavioral health services and is responsible to ensure transition planning and continuity of services upon discharge are taking place. This unit understands behaviors of adolescents and is able to treat the youth from the perspective of lowering the risks and increasing protective factors the youth present with and addressing the relationship between substance abuse issues and behavior. This position is skilled in the use of a strength-based perspective, systems theory, trauma informed care, and behavioral approaches. As a Social Worker IV this position supports and provides oversight for other Behavioral Health Specialists and Clinical Interns by providing enhanced services to complex youth, consulting to provide guidance on behavioral interventions for youth, and provides in the moment coaching to assist in the professional growth of less experienced behavioral health specialists.

Job Duties:

Provide Assessment and Treatment.

Within the first seven (7) days of a youth’s arrival, this position will thoroughly assess a youth’s mental health needs by reviewing the youth’s main and medical files and making initial and collateral contacts as appropriate. Maintains a caseload and will provide oversight of Behavioral Health Specialists assigned to individual youth. Conducts individual, group, and family therapeutic interventions using evidence-based treatment theories and curricula. Provides counseling in accordance with training and expertise gained through specific training and knowledge of DORA standards and OBH expectations. Therapeutic intervention service needs include substance use, psychoeducation, mental health issues, trauma histories, cognitive limitations, sensory integration, and offense specific services for sexually abusive or violent youth. Detention mental health services are - relevant to the needs of the youth and the individual needs and protective factors, considering their age, ethnic, cultural, religious and sexual identity issues, to affect behavior change and the reduction of complex co-occurring needs and risk to community and symptoms in the individual and family. Treatment is provided using strength-based approach and holistic manner. Use of behavioral interventions, sensory integration and modalities, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing techniques with youth are used. Interpret treatment issues, needs, expectations, and changes in behavior for residents and families. Document and assess the effectiveness of specific interventions toward meeting the objectives and goals of the treatment plan. Treatment - incorporates and addresses the youth’s risk, needs and protective factors and how criminal conduct, trauma histories, substance abuse and mental health issues are related. Collaborate with the medical team and psychiatrist regarding psychotropic medication use in treatment and collaborate with primary BHS on assessing needs for medication if appropriate. Collaborate with client manager and primary BHS to assist in developing wrap-around transition and aftercare services for the youth nearing parole / discharge to support sobriety. Collaborate with educational/vocational systems to ensure appropriate academic services are provided, and work with the school Behavioral Health Specialist in ensuring consistent behavior interventions for youth who may be struggling in the school environment. Seek out additional resources as necessary to ensure the best approach to treatment with the youth based on their developmental and neurocognitive ability. Therapeutic interventions are provided in a manner that is consistent with the youth’s ability, taking into account any necessary modification needed as a result of trauma, substance abuse, brain injury and mental health disorders. This position supports agency services of individualized services using cognitive behavioral based interventions, sensory modulation, Sanctuary model and Motivational Interviewing. Facilitation of daily groups (as necessary), assessment of progress, barriers to progress, collaboration with multidisciplinary team members, communication of pertinent information to primary BHS, milieu staff and education, and documentation of all case management and therapeutic services in the electronic record system by the end of next business day. Documents summary of progress in monthly treatment plans for youth on caseload. Documents all assessments, sessions, court reports, transition plans, community passes and staffing sessions. Communicates effectively in verbal and written formats, that demonstrates knowledge and expertise in working with juveniles who have substance abuse issues. Is able to elaborate on needs, protective factors, progress and barriers to progress in a manner that is understandable to all audiences and partners, to include family, client management, education staff, parole boards, private providers, courts, etc. Conducts all mental health services in accordance with DORA and OBH standards in order to mitigate risk and improve overall health. Services provided are at an advanced level based on licensing and experience in the substance abuse field, relevant to current research and best practice principles.

Clinical and Programmatic Consultation.

This position has a thorough knowledge of the federal confidentiality regulations 42 C.F.R. Part 2 and HIPAA. Takes responsibility for being current on literature and emerging research in the best practices of treating juvenile mental health, substance abuse issues and co-occurring disorders with a complex population. Participates in orientation, educational workshops, mental health, co-occurring disorders, and clinical team meetings, and training to assure and maintain competency in the provision of evidence-based treatment services. This position guides staff by modeling interventions, recommending practices and resident assignments that may be implemented. Required to participate in initial case reviews of all new youth, assists in group placement, and assist in case consultation. Participates in supervision to remain in good standing for license renewals. Is responsible for maintaining all professional certifications and licensure. Actively participates in own professional growth and continued training, research and CEU’s. Participates in clinical supervision with the Clinical Director. Provides training and consultation as needed per CTL and other Clinical Leadership in the Division.

Documentation and Communication.

Document in the approved electronic database a service note for all individual and group sessions in DAP format. Group documentations must be individualized, reflecting how each particular youth participated in each group session. Update ITPs per audit standards. Complete all parole board, community review board and discharge reports on a timely basis, as applicable. Document incident reports as indicated, ensure follow-up for DHS reports on a timely basis. Ensure all intern notes are entered into the approved electronic database. This position is responsible for auditing SPM and IGCP documentation to ensure policy expectations are met. This position is responsible for oversight and coordinates National Commission on Correctional Healthcare (NCCHC) credentialing efforts and maintaining standards to ensure re-accreditation.

Training and/or Supervision.

This position supervises programming components which includes the Behavioral Program (level system), Chronic Disease Protocol, Substance Use Services, Mental health Services, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Responsive environments, Practicum and Internship program. In conjunction with the CTL, develops and conducts training for milieu staff and/or BHS. This position is responsible for the training and development of interns, This position is an Individual Contributor that is responsible for oversight for mental health services. This position also makes recommendations, and evaluates treatment cases based on practice, theory, or principle, and experience at an advanced level confirmed by licensing with oversight from CLT. Utilizes a strength based approach to assisting in professional development and addressing performance concerns. This position provides training specific to procedures that have been developed to ensure that policy standards are met and specifically to further develop the team in its competency in the area of family engagement. This position provides consultation to the direct care staff to develop and maintain programming that promotes a trauma informed environment.

This position leads a family engagement model congruent with the Colorado DYS Treatment Model involving training for therapists and direct care staff.

As applicable, this position develops strategic plans to increase family engagement (e.g., therapy, consultation, safety planning, and treatment progress) and knowledge regarding mental health services.

Provides therapy beyond 1 session per month, establishes and supports the implementation of psycho-education and multi-family groups, and provides supervision to family therapists. This position also provides education for Directors and ADs in the Division to deepen the understanding and appreciation of the importance of family engagement for our youth.

And other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights

Minimum Qualifications:

Education/Licensure/Certification/Experience:

Current, valid Colorado or State participating in the Social Work Licensure Compact licensure as:

+ Licensed Social Worker (LSW) OR

+ Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) OR

+ Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) OR

+ Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

+ Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC)

And Two (2) years of experience with current, valid licensure from a state participating in the Social Work Licensure Compact based on the work assigned to the position.

Preferred qualifications:

+ Professional Licensure

+ Experience with juveniles

+ Experience in a secure setting

+ Relatable experience as a current or previous State of Colorado employee.

Conditions of Employment:

+ Full Background - CBI name check and fingerprint check, ICON Colorado court database, Medicare fraud database, Reference checks, Professional License Verification, Drug Screen, PREA, Trails check.

+ Current/valid and unrestricted US Driver’s License

+ Travel- Transportation of youth in state vehicles, travel to assigned trainings and/or alternate work sites.

+ Continued employment is contingent upon successful completion of the DYS Pre-service Training Academy, Field Training Program (FTO) and mandatory annual training in all subject areas.

+ Must be 21 years of age, with no felony convictions or history of domestic violence

+ Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must (1) disclose that information on the application (2) provide an explanation why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify the applicant from the current position, (3) provide the employee number from the applicant’s prior State employment. Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination and failure to provide this information will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with CDHS.

+ The Diana Screen®, a sexual risk screening tool, is administered to all applicants to the Division of Youth Services (DYS) seeking positions of trust with children and teens to help ensure that ethical boundaries between children and adults are maintained. At the DYS, the safety and protection of the youth who have been entrusted to us is our #1 priority.

Appeal Rights:

If you receive notice that you have been eliminated from consideration for this position, you may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director.

An appeal or review must be submitted on the official appeal form, signed by you or your representative. This form must be delivered to the State Personnel Board by email ([email protected]), postmarked in US Mail or hand delivered (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203), or faxed (303.866.5038) within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department’s action.

For more information about the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it to the State Personnel Board; go to spb.colorado.gov ; contact the State Personnel Board for assistance at (303) 866-3300; or refer to 4 Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, at spb.colorado.gov under Rules.

Supplemental Information

How to Apply (https://cdhs.colorado.gov/information-for-job-applicants#how-to-apply)

Need help with your application? Click here.

The Assessment Process (https://cdhs.colorado.gov/information-for-job-applicants#assessment-process)

For additional recruiting questions, please [email protected]

About Us:

If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference, consider joining the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Human Services (https://www.colorado.gov/cdhs) (CDHS). Our professionals strive to design and deliver high quality human and health services that improve the safety, independence, and well-being of the people of Colorado. In addition to a great location and rewarding and meaningful work, we offer:

+ Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including aPERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Planwww.copera.orgplus 401(k) and 457 plans

+ Medical and dental health plans

+ Employer supplementedHealth Savings Account

+ Paid life insurance

+ Short- and long-term disability coverage

+ 11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave

+ BenefitHubstate employee discount program

+ Employee Wellness program MotivateMe

+ Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, training and more

+ Remote work arrangements for eligible positions

*Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more

information, go to https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/dhr/student-loan-forgiveness-programs .

Our Values:

We believe in a people-first approach: To serve the people of Colorado, we develop a culture and work environment that creates an energized, inspired, and healthy team capable of giving their best to Coloradans .

Balance creates quality of life: We want our team to be resilient through a supportive workplace that values flexibility, health and wellness, and employee engagement.

We hold ourselves accountable: We take responsibility through our actions, programs, and results for the state of health and human services in Colorado.

Transparency matters: We are open and honest with employees, our partners, the Coloradans we serve, and the public.

We are ethical: We abide by what is best for those we serve by doing what is right, not what is easy.

Collaboration helps us rise together: We work together with all partners, employees, and clients to achieve the best outcomes for Coloradans.

We are committed to increasing the diversity of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of diverse backgrounds and abilities.

ADAA Accommodations: CDHS is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our ADAAA Coordinator, Nancy Schmelzer, at [email protected] or call 1-800-929-0791.

~THE STATE OF COLORADO IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER~

Toll Free Applicant Technical Support (https://cdhs.colorado.gov/information-for-job-applicants#technical-support)

The State of Colorado offers permanent employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, as well as a comprehensive leave program. Please click the following link for detailed information: www.colorado.gov/pacific/dhr/benefits

Please note that each agency's contact information is different; therefore, we encourage all applicants to view the full, official job announcement which includes contact information and class title. Select the job you wish to view, then click on the "Print" icon.

01

A condition of employment requires applicants to be 21 years of age or older. Do you meet this condition?

+ Yes

+ No

02

Aare you currently licensed or approved by the CO DORA to provide mental health services?

+ Yes, I am currently licensed or approved by the CO DORA to provide mental health services

+ No, I am not currently licensed or approved by the CO DORA to provide mental health services

03

If you are a current or former State of Colorado employee, please list your employee number (starts with 997). Failure to provide this requested information may render your application incomplete, and you may no longer be considered for the position.

04

Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose the information on the application. In the space below, please provide an explanation as to why the prior termination or resignation should NOT disqualify your application from the current position.

05

Please indicate which licensure or certifications you currently hold (select all that apply):

+ Licensed Social Worker (LSW)

+ Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

+ Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

+ Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

+ Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC)

06

How many years of experience do you have working with youth who have complex mental health needs, severe behavioral challenges, learning disabilities, co-occurring disorders, limited skills?

+ 0-3 years

+ 3-5 years

+ 5+ years

07

How many years of experience do you have facilitating psychotherapy/psychoeducation groups?

+ 0-3 years

+ 3-5 years

+ 5+ years

08

How many years of experience do you have working with youth in the juvenile justice field?

09

How many years of experience do you have writing individual treatment plans?

10

How many years of experience do you have working on teams? communication on a team?

11

Have you ever been reported to a licensing board? If so, what were the circumstances and what was the outcome?

12

Describe your ability to work on a team with various work backgrounds as well as a time when a conflict arose on that team and how you addressed the conflict

13

Please describe your experience Supervising in a case management or clinical environment.

14

Please describe your experience working in a Multi-Disciplinary Team

15

Please describe your experience in programs that intersect behavioral health system (mental health, substance use disorders) and the criminal justice system (courts, jails, law enforcement, competency to proceed).

16

Please describe your experience providing case management or case coordination in a clinical setting.

17

Please describe your experience developing, implementing, and coordinating case plans or discharge plans for continuity of care.

18

Please describe your experience implementing new program/projects.

19

Are you a Disabled Veteran? if yes, you must upload your DD-214 and Disability Letter with your application.

+ Yes

+ No

20

Your legal name is used in the hiring process for background checks. Did you use your full legal name in your application?

+ Yes

+ No

21

The bottom of this job announcement provides links to additional information on how to apply, the assessment process, toll free applicant technical support, and about how the State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer. Please acknowledge below that you have read the information provided in these links.

+ This information is available to me and I have read this information

+ I am unable to access the links with this information on the job posting. (If you select this option, please contact the recruiter, whose information is listed on this announcement, so that they can send this information directly to you.)

Required Question

Employer

State of Colorado

Address

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Website

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