DHS ALEXANDER CHIEF PSYCHOLOGIST

The Department of Human Services (DHS) Alexander Chief Psychologist is responsible for directing the operation and administration of the psychology department and treatment of clients in the juvenile incarceration system of Arkansas Youth Services. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy.

Direct the activities of a professional, technical, and administrative support staff through subordinate supervisors including interviewing, hiring, terminating, reviewing performance evaluations conducted by subordinates, evaluating the performance of subordinates, and reviewing and approving/disapproving a variety of actions, policies, and procedures recommended by subordinates, preparing short and long range plans, preparing, implementing, and monitoring operational and biennial budgets. Review, monitor, and evaluate program goal and objectives to ensure agency compliance with state and federal regulations. Conduct psychological program assessments and revises as necessary. Coordinate treatment planning of clients by interviewing clients individually or with other team members, evaluating interview data, and consulting with team members to assess problems and recommend treatment. Maintains and prepares departmental evaluation reports on each client and overall program effectiveness. May submit evaluation or test reports to court or testify if requested. Conducts peer reviews of selected clinical cases. Plans and conducts seminars for psychology interns, social work students, nursing, and medical students. Attends legislative committee meetings to respond to questions and coordinates with legislative staff on the drafting and reviewing of legislation affecting statewide administrative processes. Performs other duties as assigned.

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Knowledge of state budgetary, human resources, and purchasing procedures. Knowledge of psychological theories and the principles of human behavior. Knowledge of psychological testing procedures and evaluation methods. Knowledge of developmental theories in psychology. Ability to plan, organize, and oversee the work of subordinates. Ability to administer and evaluate psychological tests. Ability to conduct individual/group counseling sessions and develop individualized treatment plans. Ability to compile data, prepare reports, and maintain files. Ability to monitor and document behavior patterns and modify programs. Ability to instruct others in the implementation of psychological procedures.

Must be licensed as a Psychologist by the Arkansas State Board of Examiners in Psychology in accordance with ACA 17-97-302; plus four years of work experience in the psychological field; plus two years in a supervisory or leadership capacity. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

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