Mental Health Therapist (Foster Care)

Named one of the best places to work in California!

We are committed to providing a challenging, career-enhancing environment for dedicated professionals desiring to make a difference in the lives of young people and their families. Stars Behavioral Health Group (SBHG) currently employs approximately 1,500 people at 37 different sites throughout California in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Fresno, Central Valley, Stanislaus, Santa Clara, Alameda, and Sacramento counties. We serve more than 25,000 children, youth and families annually throughout the state.

Our experienced staff of Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Social Workers, Mental Health Specialists, Parent Partners and other therapists/counselors provide case management, mental health care and a range of support services in schools, homes or other community settings.  Our dedicated teams work collaboratively and in partnership with family members, school administrators and faculty, county social workers, case managers, probation officers and other agencies.

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
 

Education

Master'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.

Experience

One (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.
 

We offer: 
 

• MFTI and ACSW’s receive supervision for BBS hours
• Competitive compensation
• Company paid benefits package including medical, dental and vision and many other voluntary benefits
• Rewarding work environment with excellent opportunities for career growth
• Excellent work/life balance including generous vacation and holiday pay
• Meaningful relationships with your co-workers and the individuals we serve
• Family-oriented environment
• On the job training including paid CEU opportunities and career development
• Flexible work schedule and environment
• Mileage reimbursement