Corrections Mental Health Counselor 3 - MCC

State of Washington; Monroe (WA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Washington, Department of Corrections, Monroe Correctional Complex in Monroe, WA, invites applications for a Corrections Mental Health Counselor 3. Work onsite Monday-Friday 12:30pm-9:00pm under supervision to provide evidence-based mental health services to incarcerated individuals.

The role emphasizes individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, treatment planning, and thorough documentation within a multidisciplinary team.

Qualifications

• CAAC certification is required or eligibility to apply within 30 days of hire.
• Higher DOH licensure may be considered advantageous.
• Must meet WA DOH credentialing requirements for licensure.

Responsibilities

• Provide individual and group mental health counseling to incarcerated individuals under supervision.
• Conduct crisis intervention, mental health unit rounds, case management, and assessments.
• Document and develop Mental Health Treatment Plans with supervision; complete MHERs, MHAs, MHUs.
• Coordinate care with clinical supervisor, participate in supervision meetings, and support transition/reentry needs.

Skills

CAAC

Independent therapy

Group therapy

Multidisciplinary team

Resource linkage

Education

Doctoral in psychology

Master’s in psychology + supervision

Job description

The Department of Corrections is seeking a highly motivated and qualified Corrections Mental Health Counselor 3 for the Monroe Correctional Complex located in Monroe, WA just outside of Seattle.

Schedule: Monday-Friday 12:30pm -9:00pm (12:30-21:00). Work is to be performed onsite.

Under the administrative supervision of a Psychology Associate, and the clinical supervision of the lead unit Psychologist, this position provides evidence based mental health programming that helps treat and stabilize mental health and subsequent behaviors of incarcerated individuals, thereby reducing risk factors while promoting wellness and prosocial behaviors.

Completed Application Packet Will Include

• A detailed resume
• A cover letter
• Three professional references

Application assessment will be ongoing, the hiring authority reserves the right to offer the position at any time during the recruitment process. It’s the applicant's advantage to apply as early as possible. This recruitment could be used to fill multiple permanent or non-permanent positions.

Duties

• Provide mental health counseling services to assigned incarcerated individuals with clinical supervision and approval.
• Provide mental health counseling services including but not limited to: individual counseling, group counseling, crisis intervention, mental health unit rounds, clinical case management, and mental health assessment with clinical supervision and approval as needed or based on the frequency determined by the severity of the patient's current symptomology. These services are based on the need of the individual per the WADOC Health Plan and relevant mental health policies, protocols, processes, and guidelines.
• Provides emergent mental health coverage as directed. Works in conjunction with the clinical supervisor when patients are placed in the Close Observation Area (COA) to coordinate care and treatment.
• Documentation and Treatment Planning with clinical supervision and approval.
• Observes, interviews, collects data, and directs treatment of patients on assigned caseload assessing and documenting the patients' needs and status in their medical charts. Ensures timely and accurate reporting and documentation of services rendered. Reporting and documentation may include computer-based OMNI data, typed reports, and/or legible handwritten reports that are filed in the patients' medical charts.
• Completes Mental Health Encounter Reports (MHERs), Mental Health Appraisals (MHAs), and Mental Health Updates (MHUs) as required by policy, with clinical supervision and approval. May be assigned other assessments as needed. Completes Suicide Risk Assessments/Detections, Safety Plans, and crisis documentation when required by policy or directed by supervisor.
• Facilitates and monitors development and implementation of individualized Mental Health Treatment Plans with clinical supervision and approval in accordance with the Washington DOC Health Plan and relevant Mental Health policies, protocols, processes, and guidelines.
• Case consultation.
• Attends and actively participates in clinical and administrative supervision meetings to review the implementation of treatment plans for clinical clarification and to receive feedback and instructions on services provided.
• Attends and actively participates in meetings and case consultation with other DOC staff to ensure coordination of patient care.
• Transition and release.
• Coordinates and facilitates transition and release needs of incarcerated individuals as assigned with outside agencies and community services in conjunction with reentry/release staff.
• Trainings, involuntary antipsychotic medication hearings, and other duties as assigned.
• Actively participate in all clinical in-service meetings and trainings as assigned. Participate in involuntary antipsychotic medication hearings as designated and appropriate, and may provide annual in-service suicide prevention instruction as designated and appropriate. Provide informal education to staff and incarcerated individuals on topics related to the promotion of mental health within the prison and in the community.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Certified Agency Affiliated Counselor (CAAC).
• Must have the ability to apply for a Certified Agency Affiliated Counselor (CAAC) within 30 days of hire date.
• To see criteria to meet eligibility to obtain an Agency Affiliated Counselor Certification, please see this link to the Dept. of Health (DOH) web page regarding Mental Health Licensure: https://doh.wa.gov/licenses-permits-and-certificates/professions-new-renew-or-update/agency-affiliated-counselor/frequently-asked-questions
• Additional consideration may be given for higher level Dept. of Health (DOH) Mental Health licenses.

Preferred Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited school or department of Psychology or master’s degree in psychology and two years of supervised, post master’s degree experience.
• At least one year of experience working independently and effectively to develop and provide individual and group therapies.
• Experience linking clients with resources within institutions and/or the community.
• Experience working in a collaborative fashion as part of a multidisciplinary treatment team.
• Independently held license to practice mental health throughout Washington Department of Health, active with no conditions.

Mission

The mission of DOC is to improve public safety by positively changing lives.

Our Vision

Working together for safer communities.

Our Commitment

To operate a safe and humane corrections system and partner with others to transform lives for a better Washington.

Our Core Values

• Cultivate an environment of integrity and trust: Corrections values partnership and trust. We foster openness and support courageous conversations. We are committed to doing what we say we are going to do by being accountable and taking personal ownership in our actions.
• Respectful and inclusive interactions: Corrections appreciates and values individuals by promoting an inclusive and diverse environment, which encourages safety. We respect, value, and listen to the thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of our stakeholders and consider the impact on those we serve as well as each other.
• People's safety: Corrections believes in creating an environment that values physical, mental, and emotional security and well-being. We honor those who advance safety for all.
• Positivity in words and actions: At Corrections, we assume positive intentions and believe there is a shared desire for the best outcome. We consistently demonstrate positive behavior and always put forth our best effort.
• Supporting people's success: Corrections is committed to our community – understanding individuals, instilling hope, embracing change, and providing opportunities.

Important Notes

• DOC complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements for the federal employment eligibility verification form I-9. The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States consistent with the requirements of that form. https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents
• DOC does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visit www.uscis.gov.
• Please include a minimum of three (3) professional references with your application. A professional reference is defined as an individual who has been paid to supervise your work and can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job competencies. If you do not have any or sufficient professional references, please include non-related professionals, such as educators or other professional associates. **Please note: Phone number AND email address are required for all professional references.
• A background check including criminal record history will be conducted prior to a new hire. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the position.
• Employees may work directly with or near incarcerated individuals in a potentially hazardous setting. Please consider this when deciding whether to apply.
• We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol‑free work environment, and our employees are expected to comply with all state and federal laws. A pre‑employment drug test may be administered as part of the selection process, and applicants who test positive for any controlled substances, will be disqualified from consideration.
• Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) is an aerosol pepper spray made available as a means of self‑defense and/or de‑escalation. Applicants with sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure they could expect in this position.
• Animal care projects are a common component of most Washington State prisons, including dog and cat programs. Applicants with animal sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure they could expect in this position.
• Tuberculosis (TB) is a priority health issue for DOC employees. The successful candidate may be required to provide valid proof of a baseline TB skin test within 60 days from the date of hire. When positive tests result, further information, testing and treatment will also be required. Employment is not contingent upon test results.
• This position may be represented by a bargaining unit.
• Requires respirator medical evaluation questionnaire, fit testing, training, and use of respiratory protection as required by the WA Industrial Safety & Act standards. Refer to WAC 296-842 to learn more.
• Must be able to work in spaces, climb stairs, walk long distances, and frequently lift up to 30 pounds. Under rare circumstances this position may be required to lift or carry up to 50 pounds and push up to 100 pounds.
• Foreign equivalent degrees awarded outside the United States must have a credential evaluation report attached to your application. You may request the required evaluation/documentation from www.wes.org and www.aice-eval.org. Until this documentation is provided, you will not be selected to move forward in the hiring process.
• Candidates who are offered a job with the Department of Corrections must possess work authorization that does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa now or in the future.
• Salary is based on experience and is determined at the time a final offer of employment is made.

We are committed to hiring individuals who possess core diversity competencies

• Foster a positive attitude and openness toward the ever changing social and cultural makeup of the workplace.
• Work effectively with people of different perspectives, abilities, disabilities, races, religions, ages, lifestyle preferences and social, ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
• Respectfully acknowledge people's differences and recognize these differences as important and valuable.
• Promote inclusiveness.
• Be culturally sensitive and appropriate.
• Respect and value diverse backgrounds and traditions.

What We Offer

As an employee of the Department of Corrections, your work‑life integration is a priority. Washington State employees are offered one of the most inclusive and competitive benefits packages in the nation. Besides comprehensive family insurance for medical, dental, and vision, these perks also may include:

• Up to 25 paid vacations days a year
• 8 hours of paid sick leave per month
• 12 paid holidays a year
• Generous retirement plan
• Flex Spending Accounts
• Dependent Care Assistance
• 3 days of Bereavement Leave
• Deferred Compensation and so much more!

DOC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, honorably discharged veteran, veteran status, genetic information, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability.

For questions about this recruitment, or to request reasonable accommodation in the application process, please email [e-mail] or call us at [phone]. For TTY service, please call the Washington Relay Service at 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6388.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read About Our Benefits

The following information describes typical benefits available for full‑time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full‑time work (e.g. part‑time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full‑time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax‑deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long‑term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre‑tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well‑being of employees.

Retirement And Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre‑tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not‑for‑profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full‑time and part‑time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full‑time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part‑time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro‑rata basis.

Sick Leave

Full‑time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave. Sick leave accruals for part‑time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full‑time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357‑31‑165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full‑time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part‑time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357‑31‑165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro‑rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

Are you eligible to apply for a Certified Agency Affiliated Counselor (CAAC) or Licensed Agency Affiliated Counselor (LAAC) credential if hired within 30 days of hire date?

• Yes – I have a Bachelor’s degree in counseling or the social sciences, and I have at least five years of post‑degree supervised clinical experience which makes me eligible to apply for the CAAC credential.
• Yes – I have a Master’s degree or Doctorate in counseling or the social sciences, and I have at least two years of post‑degree supervised clinical experience which makes me eligible to apply for the LAAC credential.
• No – I do not have either combination of education and experience listed above which would grant me eligibility to apply for either the CAAC or LAAC credential.

02

How many years of clinically supervised experience do you have in the field of counseling, psychology, or a closely related field relevant to mental health?

• I do not have any clinically supervised experience.
• Some experience, less than 2 years
• 2 - 4.99 years
• 5 years or more

03

Please briefly describe how you obtained your clinically supervised experience.

04

Please list any Mental Health Licenses you currently have, including license numbers below.

05

What is your highest level of completed education from an accredited school whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education (CHEA)?

• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree
• Doctorate
• None of the above

06

How many years of experience do you have working independently and effectively to develop and provide individual and group therapies?

• I do not have this experience.
• Some experience, less than one year
• One year or more

07

Do you have experience linking clients with resources within institutions and/or the community?

• Yes
• No

08

Do you have experience working in a collaborative fashion as part of a multidisciplinary treatment team?

• Yes
• No

09 3100

How did you hear about this opportunity?

• Careers.wa.gov; jobs.doc.wa.gov; or governmentjobs.com
• Indeed
• DOC social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter)
• Job/career fair
• Job boards (Monster. ZipRecruiter, GlassDoor, CareerBuilder)
• WorkSource
• Veteran outreach
• Referral from current DOC employee
• Other

10

If you selected 'Other' to the previous question, how did you learn about this job opportunity?

11

If hired for this position, will you require employer sponsorship, either now or in the future?

• Yes.
• No.

12

3100 - If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? (The below link lists acceptable documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents)

• Yes
• No
• Required Question