Mental Health Clinician (Associate/Practicum)

ABOUT LA CHEIM

La Cheim has been providing a robust continuum of care for nearly 50 years to help children and adults who were previously unreachable. Our non-public school, community mental health center, therapeutic behavioral services program, and Short-Term Residential Treatment Program offer educational and mental health services throughout Alameda and Contra Costa County. 

Our team is made up of teachers, art therapists, counselors, psychiatrists, psychologists, RNs, social workers, MFTs, and mentors who are known for their caliber and compassion. They create life-changing experiences for those they serve. All La Cheim programs embrace and apply a Trauma-Informed approach to addressing emotional and behavioral issues.

By joining La Cheim you will be part of a supportive community serving an inspiration mission. You will enjoy rich benefits, valuable training and wellness opportunities, close support, and room to grow. 

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Clinician, under the supervision of the STRTP Associate Director, offers brief individual therapy, group therapy, crisis management, and case management services to adolescents residing in La Cheim's short-term residential facility. The Clinician collaborates with the residential team and external specialists and providers to promote the overall well-being and development of young people. A qualified licensed clinical supervisor provides weekly supervision.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

1. Must have a valid California Driver License and car insurance
2. Must be able to pass all required tests and clearances (Live Scan (DOJ, FBI, Guardian) TB test, etc.)
3. Post Graduate AMFT, ASW, registered with the BBS or Graduate student enrolled in clinical practicum (MFF, SW) course at university.
4. Possession of a valid California Driver's License and ability to clear mandatory State/Federal requirements, including TB test, physical exam, FBI and DOJ clearances.
5. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, ability to write and implement Behavior Treatment Plan.
6. The ability to document provided services effectively and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
7. Must be skilled in team collaboration, time management, and working with clients with severe mental illnesses.
8. Culturally sensitive and skillful at collaborating with a diverse population.
9. Steady, even temperament – ability to project calmness and courtesy.
10. Maintains fixed and regular scheduled hours.
11. Professional licensure and required supervision coursework current.

PROFESSIONAL ATTRIBUTES

1. Functions as a “team player,” prioritizing the organization’s best interests.
2. Proactively identifies opportunities for improvement and ways to contribute.
3. Exhibits creativity, adaptability, openness, and a high level of professionalism.
4. Possesses strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
5. Maintains confidentiality with discretion.
6. Demonstrates excellent verbal and written communication skills.
7. Works effectively independently and pays close attention to detail.
8. Collaborate well with other agency staff.
9. Outstanding organizational and time management abilities.
10. Exhibit a strong professional commitment and represent La Cheim effectively while engaging with the community.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The following is the extent of the specific activity required for this position:

1. Stairs – climbing stairs up to 50-100 – up to 2-4 hours, not continuously.
2. Sitting – up to 2 hours, not continuously; standing – up to 4 hours, not continuously
3. Walking – up to 2 hours, not continuously; bending over – up to 1 hour, not continuously.
4. Crawling – up to 0 hours; climbing – up to 0 hours, reaching overhead – up to a few minutes.
5. Crouching – up to ½ hour, not continuously; kneeling – up to a few minutes
6. Balancing – up to 0 hours; pushing or pulling – up to a few minutes.
7. Lifting or carrying – 25 pounds or less; repetitive use of feet – up to 0 hours
8. Repetitive use of hands – up to 0 hours
9. Grasping – with one or both, simple and firm, for up to 1 hour, not continuously
10. Fine dexterity - either hand up to 1 hour, not continuously Auditory and visual acuity – 8 hours within normal limits and maybe with glasses, contact lenses or hearing aids.
11. Driving cars and vans; Exposure to uneven concrete and blacktop
12. Exposure to normal dust, heat, and noise
13. Exposure to emotionally disturbed students who may be physically and verbally violent and require safe physical management.
14. Frequent exposure to office equipment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

1. Provide weekly brief individual, group therapy, and group psychoeducation/skill building to residents
2. Provide services in a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and developmentally appropriate manner consistent with clinical standards
3. Establish rapport with residents that support therapeutic relationships
4. Complete screenings, and assessments, and generate treatment plans as part of routine clinical practice.
5. Maintain appropriate clinical records meeting timelines and documentation standards.
6. Monitor individual treatment plans, and partnership plans with youth, clinical supervisor, and other youth team supports as indicated
7. Work collaboratively with multi-disciplinary teams
8. Provide case management for assigned residents
9. Meet established standards of productivity
10. Monitor and report the effects of psychotropic medications under the direction of medical staff
11. Complete and maintain all assigned charts in audit-ready status
12. Complete all necessary reports promptly
13. Communicate effectively with team members across settings and departments.
14. Participate actively in Clinical Supervision as assigned
15. Assist with crisis intervention guided by professional practice and Pro-ACT principles (training provided).

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Complete all required trainings as assigned
2. Attend all mandatory meetings
3. Meet regularly for individual oversight with supervisor(s)
4. Other duties may be required as La Cheim continues its development. Employees are expected to be flexible and responsive to changes in the scope of duties.
5. Understand and embody La Cheim's philosophy, organizational culture, and communication channels by practicing a collaborative approach.
6. Complete any additional tasks assigned by the Supervisor, Department Head, and/or CEO
7. Provide consultation to group home staff and assist in establishing behavior expectations.
8. Interact with residents appropriately within the environment. Be able to respond effectively during crisis situations
9. Attend scheduled team and staff meetings; facilitate conferences with residents to enhance participation.
10. Meet regularly with supervisor to evaluate student progress
11. Attend IEP meetings as scheduled
12. Maintain professional behavior and boundaries in all interactions with residents and staff
13. Employees are expected to be flexible and responsive to changes in the scope of duties.
14. Participate in the monthly relevant training provided by Relias and complete other assigned training.

Salary : $24 - $29