Lead MST Therapist (Multisystemic Therapy)

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION: 

The Juvenile Justice Initiative Program with SCO Family of Services consists of a small team of mental health professionals.  Our mission is focused on helping youth (12-17 years old) and their families gain the necessary tools and skills to reduce further court involvement while strengthening the family system.  This community-based clinician provides in home counseling to adjudicated youth and their families' multiple times per week. The therapist uses evidenced based clinical practices to empower youth and families by creating strength-based behavior change that will be sustained long after treatment ends. The MST team strives to keep youths out of the system and keep families together.  The ideal candidate for this position is a clinician grounded in strength-based practices and a social justice advocate.  Field work comprises the majority of the therapist’s time, but additional administrative requirements and supervision are an equally important component of the position.

The Lead MST-Psych therapist will have at least 1-2 years of MST experience, or similar evidence-based treatment model. The Lead MST therapist position functions as back up to the clinical supervisor and carries supervisor responsibilities including reviewing case summaries, offering support to the MST therapist, and leading group supervision and consultation. The Lead therapist assists in training new therapists while also providing support to the team.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

• The Lead MST therapist position functions as back up to the clinical supervisor and carries supervisor responsibilities including reviewing case summaries, offering support to the MST therapist, and leading group supervision and consultation.

• The Lead MST therapist assists with training of new therapists, providing clinical and session support.
• The Lead MST therapist carries a small case load of 5-6 families, providing in home family counseling,
• support and crisis intervention.
• Conduct MST assessments and adhere to evidenced based clinical counseling modalities.
• Design cognitive behavioral interventions for youth and families.
• Collaborate with stakeholders such as psychiatrists, schools, clinics, DOP, and pro-social programs.
• Advocate for families by attending hospital, court or probation meetings.
• Participate in weekly group supervision and consultation, as well as individual supervision.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.
• All sessions must be completed in the family’s home.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous experience with family therapy, or in home counseling, to youth and their families.
• Flexible work schedule.  Some evening and occasional weekend work is required.
• Ability to handle a high work load and adhere to program deadlines with high quality written documentation.
• Knowledge and experience in the Juvenile Justice System a plus as well as experience in a preventive ACS program desired.
• Acceptable clearance checks for State Central Register, Driver license and fingerprinting as required by the program.
• Licensed mental health professional or limited permit holder: LMSW, LMFT, MHC, or related.
• 1-2 years MST experience, recommendation from consultant or supervisor.

EDUCATION

Master’s degree required. MSW, MFT, MHC or related degree preferred.