Intake and Eligibility Psychologist (Full-Time & Part-Time)

Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services; Waltham (MA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is seeking a full-time or part-time Intake and Eligibility Psychologist for the Metro Regional Office in Waltham. The role involves clinical assessment, eligibility determinations, emergency case reviews, and related evaluations.

Strong knowledge of intellectual/developmental disabilities and policy is essential. The position supports DDS mission and may require travel; licensure in Massachusetts is required.

Qualifications

• Doctorate in Psychology from an APA-accredited program.
• At least three years of full-time or equivalent part-time experience as a licensed psychologist in a recognized agency.
• Current and valid psychology licensure in Massachusetts.

Responsibilities

• Provide clinical leadership to the Regional Eligibility Team and train staff.
• Guide data collection for adaptive functioning observations.
• Review records to determine need for new assessments.
• Write eligibility determinations based on gathered information.
• Participate in appeals of eligibility determinations with Regional Manager.
• Collaborate with Nursing Home Specialist on Nursing Facility eligibility.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of developments in psychology and DDS policies.

Skills

Clinical assessment

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Documentation & reporting

Trauma-informed care

Autism spectrum disorders expertise

Education

Doctorate in Psychology

Job description

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is seeking a full-time or part-time Intake and Eligibility Psychologist to join our Metro Regional Office. This role will provide clinical assessment and evaluation at the request of the Regional Director or designee, including participation in eligibility determinations, emergency case reviews and other specialized clinical assessments and evaluations. The Intake and Eligibility Psychologist will also maintain a current working knowledge of professional developments in the field, trends, policies and procedures, diagnosis of Intellectual and Developmental Disability, and related subjects.

The position is located at the Department's Metro Regional Office in Waltham.

As a representative of the Department, the Intake and Eligibility Psychologist may be asked to participate in inter-agency collaborative efforts and perform other related work as required.

Duties and Responsibilities (this is a general summary and not a complete list of duties)

• Provides overall clinical leadership to the Regional Eligibility Team, including training on the definition of intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder and a host of various genetic conditions.
• Provides direction and guidance to Eligibility Team Specialists and the Eligibility Team Coordinator regarding the collection of structured and non-structured observational data related to adaptive functioning
• Reviews all historical records and reports, including summaries prepared by Eligibility Specialists, to determine the need for new assessments of intellectual and/or adaptive behavior functioning.
• Based on gathered information, the Psychologist will write eligibility determinations
• Participates in all appeals of eligibility determinations in conjunction with designated Regional Manager
• Works collaboratively with Regional Nursing Home Specialist on determination of eligibility for Nursing Facility candidates.
• Maintains knowledge of professional developments in the fields of psychological assessment, diagnosis of developmental disabilities, and related subjects.

• Performs related duties as required

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of the types, symptoms, and presentation of emotional and psychiatric disorders in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of tests and measurements used in ascertaining intelligence, aptitudes, personality, and related mental and physical traits.
• Be well versed in the administration and interpretation of psychological tests, motivational interviewing, autism experience across the lifespan, trauma informed care.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and exercise discretion in handling confidential information; resolve problems and conflicts in a diplomatic and tactful manner.
• Skilled in establishing rapport and dealing tactfully with individuals and their family members from varied religious, ethnic, cultural, economic backgrounds, and/or under physical, emotional stress, or in stressful settings.
• Demonstrates thoroughness, independence, and excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to seek guidance and support, take direction from supervisors and clinical consultants when needed.
• Extensive knowledge and understanding of policy and procedures pertaining to individuals served by DDS.
• Knowledge of the DDS and generic programs, services, and resources available to individuals with developmental disabilities and ASD only.
• Knowledge of the laws, rules, regulations, polices, procedures, specifications, standards, and guidelines governing assigned duties.
• Proficient usage of Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Based on assignment, travel may be required. Those employees who elect to use a motor vehicle for travel must have a current and valid Massachusetts Class D motor Vehicle Operator’s license or the equivalent from another state.

Please Note:

This position can be either Full-Time or Part-Time.

Full-Time = 40 hours per week, Part-Time = 20 hours per week

Flexibility required to meet the needs of the program/area office.

About the Department of Developmental Services:

The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B+ operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.

For more information about our agency and programs visit: www.mass.gov/dds

Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Record Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.

• Education, licensure, and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines.

Recommended candidates must successfully complete pre-employment screening which includes:

• Commission for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities (CPPD) Abuse Registry Search: https:cppdmass.gov
• Criminal background check (CORI) by regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori
• National Background Checks, Chapter 234 of the Acts of 2014, conduct fingerprint-based check. https://www.mass.gov/lists/dds-fingerprint-background-checks

Qualifications

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

Minimum Entrance Requirements:

Applicants must have a Doctorate in Psychology from school accredited by the American Psychological Association.

Applicants must also have at least three years of years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience as a Licensed Psychologist in the application of psychological principles and techniques in a recognized agency providing psychological services or treatment, of which (B) at least one year must have included supervision over Post-doctoral Psychologists-in-training and/or Psychological Assistants.

Special Requirements:

Current and valid registration as a Psychologist by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Psychology.

Based on assignment, travel may be required. Those employees who elect to use a motor vehicle for travel must have a current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator's license or the equivalent from another state.

Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate’s years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

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An Equal Opportunity / Aff…

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.