Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP)/Diagnostician

Primary Purpose:

Perform professional psychological work in assessment, behavior management, and counseling for students with emotional disabilities, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. Assess the psychological and psycho-educational needs of students referred to special education services.  Work cooperatively with instructional personnel to provide the most appropriate instructional programs for students with disabilities.

Education/Certification:

Master’s degree in psychology from accredited college or university

Valid Texas license as a licensed specialist in school psychology (LSSP) or Trainee Status Letter issued by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of diagnostic procedures, education of special education students, human development, and learning theories

Ability to interpret data

Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience:

Experience (intern experience included) preferred in providing psychology services in an educational setting

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Assessment

1. Select and administer formal and informal assessments and observations to evaluate the intellectual, achievement, emotional, and behavioral functioning of referred students and to determine student eligibility for special education services according to federal and state regulations.
2. Develop psychological evaluation reports and behavior management plan and FIE’s.
3. Compile and evaluate comprehensive student information including classroom observations; personal interviews with the student, teachers(s), parents and others; and relevant assessment data from student’s cumulative folder. Consult with parents and teacher concerning the educational needs of students and interpretation of assessment data.
4. Conduct or participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement and development of Individual Education Plans (IEP) for students according to district procedures.
5. May serve as case manager and implement the special education assessment process for students on assigned campuses.

Consultation

1. Present staff development training in assigned schools to assist school personnel in identifying and understanding students with disabilities.
2. Assist classroom teachers with implementation of IEP.
3. Conduct group, individual, and counseling sessions and facilitative therapy for students with diagnosed problems.
4. Serve as consultant on mental health topics for instructors in the school health program.
5. Consult with school staff regarding implementation of behavior intervention plans and in managing behaviorally disruptive students.
6. Provide staff development training in assigned schools to assist school personnel with identification and understanding of students with emotional, social, and behavioral disturbances.
7. Meet with parents to discuss pertinent background information and test results.
8. Consult with teachers and relevant staff concerning the educational needs of students and interpretation of assessment data and assist staff with implementation of the IEP.
9. Consult with psychologists, psychiatrists, medical doctors, and community agencies concerning intellectual, emotional, and behavioral functioning of students as needed. 

Program Management

1. Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents.
2. May provide clinical supervision to intern or trainee.
3. Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of psychological services and assessment procedures and make changes based on findings.
4. Assist in the selection of assessment materials and equipment.
5. Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required, including case records, test results, statistical data, and test inventories.
6. Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy in the areas of psychological services, assessment, placement, and planning for special education services.
7. Comply with all district and local campus routines and regulations.
8. Participate in professional development activities to improve skills related to job assignment.

Communication

1. Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisors.
2. Effectively communicate with colleagues, students, and parents.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Potential supervision of interns.  (Note: An LSSP must have a minimum of three years of experience providing psychological services in the public school to provide supervision of an intern or trainee.)

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals, and other instructional equipment

Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion: Frequent walking

Lifting: May require regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities, control behavior through physical restraint, assist non-ambulatory students, and lift and move adaptive equipment; may work prolonged or irregular hours

Environment: Exposure to biological hazards; may require districtwide travel

Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress. Regular districtwide travel to multiple work locations as assigned; moderate lifting and carrying.

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.