Forensic Social Worker

Behavioral Health Network, Inc.; Northampton (MA); Hybrid; USD 84,000 - 87,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO

403(b)

Educational assistance

Medical, dental, vision

Job summary

Behavioral Health Network, Inc. is seeking a Forensic Social Worker to join the Adult Court Clinic in a hybrid role based out of Northampton or Pittsfield, MA.

You will conduct court-ordered evaluations, consult with judges and providers, and prepare timely reports for both criminal and civil matters. Candidates should hold a Master’s in Social Work, be eligible for the Qualified Social Worker credential, and demonstrate strong written and verbal communication.

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Social Work required.
• Eligible for the Qualified Social Worker credential.
• Knowledge of statutory mental health evaluations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Able to manage competing priorities and respond effectively to urgent needs.
• Collaborative, culturally humble, and committed to high-quality care.

Responsibilities

• Conduct court-ordered evaluations in criminal and civil matters under Massachusetts laws.
• Consult with judges, attorneys, probation officers, and treatment providers.
• Prepare timely evaluation reports to meet court needs.
• Testify in court regarding evaluations.
• Communicate with jail mental health staff about defendants’ concerns.
• Coordinate with crisis services when acute care is needed.
• Connect individuals with community providers and referrals.
• Document services in compliance with requirements.
• Arrange placement for individuals who have been committed.

Skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Prioritization

Collaboration

Court coordination

Education

Master’s Degree in Social Work

Eligible for Qualified Social Worker credential

Knowledge of statutory mental health evaluations

Job description

• Pay or shift range: $84,000 USD to $87,000 USD
  The estimated range is the budgeted amount for this position. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, location, qualifications and other job-related reasons.

Description

Behavioral Health Network (BHN) is a leading statewide provider of behavioral health services and a Certified Great Place to Work. Since 1938, BHN has helped individuals, families, and communities thrive through compassionate, high-quality care and support. With deep roots in Western Massachusetts and a growing presence throughout the state, we are seeking a Forensic Social Worker to join our Adult Court Clinic team. This is a hybrid role, based out of either Northampton or Pittsfield.

What We Offer:

• Purpose-Driven Work – Help courts and community partners respond to the behavioral health needs of individuals involved in criminal and civil matters.
• Meaningful Collaboration – Work with judges, attorneys, probation officers, treatment providers, and crisis services.
• Professional Growth – Access ongoing training, mentorship, and career development opportunities.
• Supportive Team Culture – Join a collaborative workplace guided by our HEART values: Humanity, Empowerment, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork.
• Comprehensive Benefits – Enjoy generous PTO, 403(b), educational assistance, medical, dental, vision, employee assistance programs, and more.
• Certified Great Place to Work – Work for an organization recognized for creating a positive and engaging employee experience.

What You Will Do:

• Conduct court-ordered evaluations in criminal and civil matters under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 123, including §§ 35, 12(a), and 15(e), in accordance with applicable guidelines.
• Consult with judges, attorneys, probation officers, and community mental health and substance use treatment providers.
• Prepare timely evaluation reports to meet court needs.
• Testify in court regarding evaluations.
• Communicate with jail mental health staff about defendants’ behavioral health and substance use concerns, as needed.
• Coordinate with crisis services when acute care is needed.
• Connect individuals with community providers and referrals, as appropriate.
• Document services in compliance with applicable requirements.
• Arrange placement for individuals who have been committed.

Who You Are:

• Master’s Degree in Social Work required.
• Eligible for the Qualified Social Worker credential.
• Knowledge of statutory mental health evaluations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Able to manage competing priorities and respond effectively to urgent needs.
• Collaborative, culturally humble, and committed to high-quality care.

We Hire for HEART! Since 1938, BHN has delivered high-quality, culturally responsive behavioral health care, building deep roots in Western Massachusetts while expanding our impact throughout the state. Our core values—Humanity, Empowerment, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork—guide how we lead, serve, and support one another. If you’re a social worker ready to bring your clinical expertise to the intersection of behavioral health and the courts, we’d love to hear from you.

Pay Range: $84,000-$87,000

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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