Psychological Assessor

Parkland Health and Hospital System
Dallas, TX
Job Description
Location: Jail Main Clinic

Psychological Assessor - Correctional Health

Primary Purpose
Psychological assessment and treatment planning for Dallas County Jail inmates developing interventions appropriate to the correctional clinical setting.

Minimum Specifications

Education
  • Must have a Master's degree in Counseling, Psychology or a related field.
  • Experience
  • Must have two years of experience in psychological/psychiatric intake and diagnostics.

Equivalent Education and/or Experience

Certification/Registration/Licensure
  • Must have one of the following licensures:
  • Licensed Psychologist by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychology.
  • Licensed Professional Counselor by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors.

Required Tests for Placement

Skills or Special Abilities
  • Requires competency in psychological assessment, diagnosing psychiatric conditions and treatment planning.
  • Must be able to demonstrate effective interpersonal skills and possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong knowledge of evidence-based assessment tools and crisis management techniques.
  • Sensitivity and empathy when dealing with individuals in crisis and from diverse backgrounds.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Understanding of the unique challenges and dynamics of working within a jail environment.

Responsibilities
  • Conduct comprehensive mental health assessments of incarcerated individuals identified as high risk/high acuity and patients experiencing a psychiatric crisis situation seven days a week.
  • Consult and collaborate with other mental health professionals, medical professionals, and correctional staff to ensure comprehensive care.
  • Utilize evidence-based assessment tools and techniques to evaluate the severity of suicidal ideation and behavior.
  • Implement appropriate safety measures and interventions to prevent harm to individuals in crisis.
  • Assess and document relevant factors such as mental health history, current stressors, and protective factors.
  • Provide education and support to incarcerated individuals regarding coping skills, anger management, and conflict resolution.
  • Maintain accurate and confidential records of assessments, treatment plans, and progress notes.
  • Stay updated on the latest research and best practices in trauma-informed care, suicide risk assessment, prevention, and crisis intervention.
  • Participate in case conceptualization and discussion with the crisis stabilization team for collective problem-solving.
  • Maintain knowledge of applicable rules, regulations, policies, laws, and guidelines that impact discipline. Develop effective internal controls that promote adherence to applicable state/federal laws and the program requirements of accreditation agencies and federal, state, and private health plans. Seeks advice and guidance as necessary to ensure proper understanding.
  • Identify ways to improve work processes and improve patient satisfaction. Makes recommendations to supervisor, implements, and monitors results as appropriate in support of the overall goals of Parkland Correctional Health.
  • Conduct Dangerousness Risk Assessment on inmates to determine the appropriate level of care and housing assignment.
  • Conduct substance abuse assessment to determine the impact substance use has on current mental health, including referral to medical staff in cases of physical withdrawal.


Requisition ID: 988140