Clinical Therapist- 11-037 - SC/Bell Shelter

The Salvation Army Southern California; Bell (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The Salvation Army Southern California is seeking a Clinical Therapist (Licensed or License-Eligible) for the Bell Shelter to deliver trauma-informed behavioral health services to residents. You will conduct individual and group psychotherapy, develop treatment plans, and coordinate with case managers to support recovery in a compassionate setting.

Responsibilities include crisis intervention, referrals for psychiatric care, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams.

Qualifications

• On-site Mental Health Clinical Services shall be provided by a licensed or license-eligible Mental Health Clinician.
• Two years of experience serving individuals with mental illness and/or substance abuse.
• Licensed clinicians may supervise trainees and interns.

Responsibilities

• Provide individual and group psychotherapy using trauma-informed and evidence-based practices.
• Conduct behavioral health screenings, assessments, including risk assessments.
• Formulate diagnoses and develop individualized treatment plans with clients and case managers.
• Provide referrals for psychiatric care and other community mental health services as needed.
• Deliver crisis intervention and de-escalation support to clients in distress.
• Facilitate multidisciplinary team meetings and assist in care planning.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Crisis intervention

Group psychotherapy

Clinical documentation

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Education

LCSW/MSW, LMFT/MFT, LPCC, PsyD, or PhD

Tools

HMIS

Job description

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Position Summary

The Clinical Therapist (Licensed or License-Eligible) at Bell Shelter plays a vital role in delivering trauma-informed, participant-centered behavioral health services to individuals residing in interim housing programs. This position is responsible for conducting individual and group psychotherapy, developing clinical treatment protocols, facilitating crisis intervention, and providing referrals to psychiatric services. The therapist collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to support clients’ emotional stability and long-term recovery while fostering a safe, therapeutic environment. If licensed, the therapist may also supervise MFT or MSW trainees and interns.

Essential Functions

Clinical Services

• Provide individual and group psychotherapy using trauma-informed and evidence-based practices.
• Conduct behavioral health screenings, assessments, and evaluations, including suicide, homicide, and grave disability risk assessments.
• Formulate clinical diagnoses and develop individualized treatment plans in coordination with clients and case managers.
• Provide referrals for psychiatric care and other community mental health services as needed.
• Offer solution-focused and trauma-informed interventions to help clients manage symptoms and adopt healthier coping behaviors.
• Facilitate psychoeducational and skill-building groups, including substance use disorder (SUD) counseling.

Crisis and Behavioral Support

• Deliver crisis intervention and de-escalation support, assisting clients in developing crisis response and emotional regulation skills.
• Conduct emergency sessions for clients in emotional distress or crisis.
• Facilitate conflict mediation between clients or between clients and staff.
• Support clients in understanding and engaging in mental health treatment plans and recommendations.

Collaboration and Coordination

• Serve as a liaison with external mental health providers, DMH staff, and other service partners to ensure coordinated care.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and assist in creating or enhancing client service plans.
• Assist case managers in developing clinically-informed care strategies for complex cases.

Training, Documentation, and Compliance

• Provide in-service trainings and case consultations to shelter staff (including case managers, reception, kitchen, housekeeping, custodial, and security) on mental health awareness, trauma-informed care, and de-escalation techniques.
• Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation, including session notes, assessments, confidentiality forms, and progress updates in HMIS and/or designated software.
• Contribute to the development of high-quality group curricula and clinical treatment protocols.
• If licensed, provide clinical supervision to MFT/MSW trainees and interns in accordance with licensing board standards.

Other Responsibilities

• Help create and sustain a therapeutic and supportive environment grounded in client strengths and life experiences.
• Assist clients in recognizing the value of engaging in mental health and substance use treatment.
• Complete other duties as assigned by the Director of Clinical Programs.

Working Conditions

This position requires the ability to walk, stand, bend, squat, climb, kneel, and twist on an intermittent or frequent basis. Must be able to grasp, push, and pull objects such as file drawers, and reach overhead. Requires the ability to operate standard office equipment, including a computer, fax machine, and telephone. Must be able to lift and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds. The role involves primarily field-based work, with occasional office duties such as filing, copying, and attending staff meetings.

Minimum Qualifications

• On-site Mental Health Clinical Services shall be provided by a licensed or license-eligible Mental Health Clinician, (LCSW/MSW, LMFT/MFT, LPCC, PsyD, or PhD).
• At least 2 years of experience as a clinician serving individuals with mental illness and/or substance abuse issues.
• If licensed, the ability to supervise trainees and interns.
• If a person with a substance abuse history, must have five years of continuous sobriety with an ongoing program of recovery.
• Maintain a current TB test and CPR/First Aid Certification.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Possess the ability to meet deadlines and work with attention to detail.
• Experience working with people experiencing homelessness in a residential setting preferred.
• Advanced skills with computers and data entry for reporting of statistical data and presentations.
• The ability to assess, diagnose, and create treatment plans for clients with psychiatric disorders.
• The ability to effectively facilitate group therapy and psycho-educational groups.