State of Colorado
Behavioral Health Specialist, Social Work/Counselor III - Zebulon Pike Youth Ser
State of Colorado, Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States, 80509
Behavioral Health Specialist, Social Work/Counselor III - Zebulon Pike Youth Services Center.
Apply for the Behavioral Health Specialist, Social Work/Counselor III position at the State of Colorado, located at the Zebulon Pike Youth Services Center.
Department Information
This position is open only to Colorado state residents.
Please note: This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies at the locations below.
About the Division of Youth Services (DYS) The Division of Youth Services provides a continuum of residential and non‑residential services that encompass juvenile detention, commitment, and parole. DYS is the agency statutorily mandated to provide for the care and supervision of youth committed by the District Court to the custody of the Colorado Department of Human Services. The Division operates fifteen secure facilities that serve youth between the ages of 10 and 21 who are pre‑adjudicated, sentenced, or committed. DYS also contracts with numerous private residential and non‑residential service providers throughout the State. For pre‑adjudicated youth, the Division is responsible for the management and oversight of the Colorado Youth Detention Continuum, a State‑funded, locally administered program that provides services to youth at risk of further progressing into the juvenile justice system. DYS administers juvenile parole services throughout the State.
Description Of Job This position requires working at the assigned location during scheduled work times. Work arrangements are subject to change at any time.
Summary Of Work Unit The mission of the Division of Youth Services (DYS) is to effectively build skills and competencies of youth to become responsible citizens. Social workers and other identified Behavioral Health Specialists provide evidence‑based and research‑supported therapeutic intervention services to youth committed and detained with DYS. Behavioral Health Specialists support the DYS treatment model and Sanctuary principles with transition staff, client management, mental health services, medical, special education, security staff, and administration as needed.
Summary Of The Position This position functions as a mental health counselor providing mental health and case management services to committed and detained youth. Services include clinical assessment (recognizing signs and symptoms of specific DSM‑5 diagnoses), monitoring medication effectiveness with the facility psychiatrist, individual, group, family, and milieu therapies, suicide risk assessment, report writing, and coordination with a Multi‑Disciplinary Team (MDT).
Job Duties Provide Treatment
Maintain a caseload and conduct individual, group, and family therapy sessions using evidence‑based treatment theories for adolescents.
Maintain a clear understanding of adolescent development and appropriate interventions.
Use theories relevant to the youth’s needs, considering age, ethnicity, culture, religion, and sexual issues.
Document and assess the effectiveness of interventions toward program progression and youth stabilization.
Address therapy needs such as substance abuse, mental health, trauma histories, cognitive limitations, and specific services for sexually abusive or violent youth.
Provide therapeutic services using a strength‑based, holistic approach.
Collaborate with the medical team and psychiatrist regarding psychotropic medication assessment.
Collaborate with educational/vocational systems to ensure appropriate academic services.
Seek additional resources as necessary to ensure the best approach to treating the youth.
Provide therapy in a manner consistent with the youth’s ability, accounting for trauma, substance abuse, brain injury, and mental health disorders.
Support agency services of cognitive‑behavioral interventions, social learning theory, and motivational interviewing.
Actively engage family/caregivers in stabilizing and transitioning the youth to placement.
Assess progress and barriers, documenting all case management and therapeutic services in the Fusion Electronic Health Record system.
Follow Sanctuary/ROCK Program guidelines.
Facilitate Community Review Teams for Individual Growth and Change Plans and other interventions.
Assessment and Treatment Planning
Address mental health and other needs identified, taking the estimated length of stay into account.
Review assessment data, engage with youth, develop therapeutic rapport, and maximize confidentiality.
Engage parents/family members, significant others, guardians, and referring agents for collateral information.
Recognize signs of serious mental illness (per DSM‑5) and monitor progress or deterioration.
Complete a brief mental health status exam.
Make recommendations, develop alternate interventions, and assess suicide risk indicators.
Coordinate with YSSIII, Client Managers, and milieu staff to implement midway interventions for program success.
Refer to psychiatrists as needed.
Determine strengths‑based treatment goals and objectives for youth.
Determine appropriate individuals to provide treatment and services per the treatment plan.
Training and Consultation
Have thorough knowledge of federal confidentiality regulations (42 C.F.R. Part 2, HIPAA) and Colorado Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division Rules.
Keep current on emerging research and best practices for juvenile mental health, substance abuse, and co‑occurring disorders.
Train others in the facility on evidence‑based treatment approaches.
Participate in orientation, educational workshops, and trainings to maintain competency.
Guide staff by modeling interventions and recommending practices.
Attend case reviews, placement assistance, and case consultation.
Maintain professional certifications and licensure.
Engage in ongoing professional growth and continuing education.
Participate in supervision with the clinical director and treatment team meetings.
Provide input on decisions around milieu programming and treatment goal implementation.
Provide input on developing additional treatment program options.
Documentation and Communication
Document in approved EHR a treatment note for all individual and group sessions in DAP format.
Individualize group documentation to reflect each youth’s participation.
Identify appropriate information to record and the appropriate location to record it.
Identify appropriate parties to receive information and the best communication mode.
Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions Of Employment & Appeal Rights
Current, valid Colorado or State participating in the Social Work Licensure Compact licensure as a: Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC)
One (1) year of experience with current, valid licensure from a state participating in the Social Work Licensure Compact.
Relatable experience as a current or previous State of Colorado employee.
Be a minimum of 21 years of age, with no felony convictions or history of domestic violence.
Full background and reference check required.
MUST maintain State of Colorado residency throughout employment.
Motor Vehicle Check required if employee will drive a state‑owned vehicle.
Must possess a valid, non‑restricted Colorado Driver’s License (or U.S. Driver's License within 30 miles of the CO border).
Continued employment contingent upon successful completion of the DYS Pre‑service Training Academy, Field Training Program (FTO) and mandatory annual training.
All applicants must complete the Diana Screen sexual risk screener; results may be used in hiring decisions.
Former State employees who were terminatively separated: Disclose that information on the application.
Explain why the prior termination should not disqualify you.
Provide prior employee number; failure to provide disqualifies the applicant.
Applicant Selection Process
Employment history is calculated on a full‑time basis (40 hrs per week). Part‑time work experience is prorated.
An HR Analyst reviews the application to determine qualification fit; cover letters and resumes are NOT reviewed during this phase.
Subsequent phases include a structured application review, competence tests, and supplemental questions.
Applicants may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board if eliminated.
Supplemental Information
To apply, use the State of Colorado online application; additional questions will be asked in the application.
For additional recruiting questions, contact Isaac.Phelps@state.co.us.
Benefits
Strong, secure yet flexible retirement benefits (PERA Defined Benefit or PERA Defined Contribution + 401(k) and 457 plans).
Medical and dental health plans.
Health Savings Account.
Paid life insurance.
Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage.
11 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
State of Colorado Employee BenefitHub Resource Center.
Employee Wellness program.
Work‑life programs (flexible schedules, training, etc.).
Remote work arrangements for eligible positions.
Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Our Values
People‑first approach: prioritize the needs of individuals, families, and communities.
Balance creates quality of life: resilient, supportive workplace valuing health and wellness.
Accountability: take responsibility for outcomes in Colorado’s health and human services.
Transparency: open and honest with employees, partners, and the public.
Ethical practice: do what’s right for those served.
Collaboration: work together for best outcomes.
ADA Accommodations The Department of Human Services is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. Contact cdhs_ada@state.co.us for inquiries.
EEO Statement The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building an inclusive workforce and providing culturally responsive services. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply regardless of race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, military status, or any other protected status.
Additional Support For Your Application Toll‑free applicant technical support: 855‑524‑5627, Mon‑Fri 6 am‑6 pm Pacific Time. Ensure documents are PDF or Word and close the file before uploading.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Department Information
This position is open only to Colorado state residents.
Please note: This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies at the locations below.
About the Division of Youth Services (DYS) The Division of Youth Services provides a continuum of residential and non‑residential services that encompass juvenile detention, commitment, and parole. DYS is the agency statutorily mandated to provide for the care and supervision of youth committed by the District Court to the custody of the Colorado Department of Human Services. The Division operates fifteen secure facilities that serve youth between the ages of 10 and 21 who are pre‑adjudicated, sentenced, or committed. DYS also contracts with numerous private residential and non‑residential service providers throughout the State. For pre‑adjudicated youth, the Division is responsible for the management and oversight of the Colorado Youth Detention Continuum, a State‑funded, locally administered program that provides services to youth at risk of further progressing into the juvenile justice system. DYS administers juvenile parole services throughout the State.
Description Of Job This position requires working at the assigned location during scheduled work times. Work arrangements are subject to change at any time.
Summary Of Work Unit The mission of the Division of Youth Services (DYS) is to effectively build skills and competencies of youth to become responsible citizens. Social workers and other identified Behavioral Health Specialists provide evidence‑based and research‑supported therapeutic intervention services to youth committed and detained with DYS. Behavioral Health Specialists support the DYS treatment model and Sanctuary principles with transition staff, client management, mental health services, medical, special education, security staff, and administration as needed.
Summary Of The Position This position functions as a mental health counselor providing mental health and case management services to committed and detained youth. Services include clinical assessment (recognizing signs and symptoms of specific DSM‑5 diagnoses), monitoring medication effectiveness with the facility psychiatrist, individual, group, family, and milieu therapies, suicide risk assessment, report writing, and coordination with a Multi‑Disciplinary Team (MDT).
Job Duties Provide Treatment
Maintain a caseload and conduct individual, group, and family therapy sessions using evidence‑based treatment theories for adolescents.
Maintain a clear understanding of adolescent development and appropriate interventions.
Use theories relevant to the youth’s needs, considering age, ethnicity, culture, religion, and sexual issues.
Document and assess the effectiveness of interventions toward program progression and youth stabilization.
Address therapy needs such as substance abuse, mental health, trauma histories, cognitive limitations, and specific services for sexually abusive or violent youth.
Provide therapeutic services using a strength‑based, holistic approach.
Collaborate with the medical team and psychiatrist regarding psychotropic medication assessment.
Collaborate with educational/vocational systems to ensure appropriate academic services.
Seek additional resources as necessary to ensure the best approach to treating the youth.
Provide therapy in a manner consistent with the youth’s ability, accounting for trauma, substance abuse, brain injury, and mental health disorders.
Support agency services of cognitive‑behavioral interventions, social learning theory, and motivational interviewing.
Actively engage family/caregivers in stabilizing and transitioning the youth to placement.
Assess progress and barriers, documenting all case management and therapeutic services in the Fusion Electronic Health Record system.
Follow Sanctuary/ROCK Program guidelines.
Facilitate Community Review Teams for Individual Growth and Change Plans and other interventions.
Assessment and Treatment Planning
Address mental health and other needs identified, taking the estimated length of stay into account.
Review assessment data, engage with youth, develop therapeutic rapport, and maximize confidentiality.
Engage parents/family members, significant others, guardians, and referring agents for collateral information.
Recognize signs of serious mental illness (per DSM‑5) and monitor progress or deterioration.
Complete a brief mental health status exam.
Make recommendations, develop alternate interventions, and assess suicide risk indicators.
Coordinate with YSSIII, Client Managers, and milieu staff to implement midway interventions for program success.
Refer to psychiatrists as needed.
Determine strengths‑based treatment goals and objectives for youth.
Determine appropriate individuals to provide treatment and services per the treatment plan.
Training and Consultation
Have thorough knowledge of federal confidentiality regulations (42 C.F.R. Part 2, HIPAA) and Colorado Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division Rules.
Keep current on emerging research and best practices for juvenile mental health, substance abuse, and co‑occurring disorders.
Train others in the facility on evidence‑based treatment approaches.
Participate in orientation, educational workshops, and trainings to maintain competency.
Guide staff by modeling interventions and recommending practices.
Attend case reviews, placement assistance, and case consultation.
Maintain professional certifications and licensure.
Engage in ongoing professional growth and continuing education.
Participate in supervision with the clinical director and treatment team meetings.
Provide input on decisions around milieu programming and treatment goal implementation.
Provide input on developing additional treatment program options.
Documentation and Communication
Document in approved EHR a treatment note for all individual and group sessions in DAP format.
Individualize group documentation to reflect each youth’s participation.
Identify appropriate information to record and the appropriate location to record it.
Identify appropriate parties to receive information and the best communication mode.
Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions Of Employment & Appeal Rights
Current, valid Colorado or State participating in the Social Work Licensure Compact licensure as a: Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC)
One (1) year of experience with current, valid licensure from a state participating in the Social Work Licensure Compact.
Relatable experience as a current or previous State of Colorado employee.
Be a minimum of 21 years of age, with no felony convictions or history of domestic violence.
Full background and reference check required.
MUST maintain State of Colorado residency throughout employment.
Motor Vehicle Check required if employee will drive a state‑owned vehicle.
Must possess a valid, non‑restricted Colorado Driver’s License (or U.S. Driver's License within 30 miles of the CO border).
Continued employment contingent upon successful completion of the DYS Pre‑service Training Academy, Field Training Program (FTO) and mandatory annual training.
All applicants must complete the Diana Screen sexual risk screener; results may be used in hiring decisions.
Former State employees who were terminatively separated: Disclose that information on the application.
Explain why the prior termination should not disqualify you.
Provide prior employee number; failure to provide disqualifies the applicant.
Applicant Selection Process
Employment history is calculated on a full‑time basis (40 hrs per week). Part‑time work experience is prorated.
An HR Analyst reviews the application to determine qualification fit; cover letters and resumes are NOT reviewed during this phase.
Subsequent phases include a structured application review, competence tests, and supplemental questions.
Applicants may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board if eliminated.
Supplemental Information
To apply, use the State of Colorado online application; additional questions will be asked in the application.
For additional recruiting questions, contact Isaac.Phelps@state.co.us.
Benefits
Strong, secure yet flexible retirement benefits (PERA Defined Benefit or PERA Defined Contribution + 401(k) and 457 plans).
Medical and dental health plans.
Health Savings Account.
Paid life insurance.
Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage.
11 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
State of Colorado Employee BenefitHub Resource Center.
Employee Wellness program.
Work‑life programs (flexible schedules, training, etc.).
Remote work arrangements for eligible positions.
Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Our Values
People‑first approach: prioritize the needs of individuals, families, and communities.
Balance creates quality of life: resilient, supportive workplace valuing health and wellness.
Accountability: take responsibility for outcomes in Colorado’s health and human services.
Transparency: open and honest with employees, partners, and the public.
Ethical practice: do what’s right for those served.
Collaboration: work together for best outcomes.
ADA Accommodations The Department of Human Services is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. Contact cdhs_ada@state.co.us for inquiries.
EEO Statement The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building an inclusive workforce and providing culturally responsive services. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply regardless of race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, military status, or any other protected status.
Additional Support For Your Application Toll‑free applicant technical support: 855‑524‑5627, Mon‑Fri 6 am‑6 pm Pacific Time. Ensure documents are PDF or Word and close the file before uploading.
#J-18808-Ljbffr