Public Defender LMSW — Social Services & Court Support

Webb County (TX); Laredo (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Webb County in Texas seeks a licensed mental health professional to support clients within the Public Defender’s Office. You will perform intake assessments, provide counseling, and connect clients with community resources while supporting case work and court-related services.

The role emphasizes crisis intervention, short-term therapy, and empowerment strategies to reduce recidivism. Requires LMSW, Master’s degree, and relevant experience; driving may be required.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in sociology, psychology, or related discipline and an active LMSW license in Texas.
• Minimum of two years of mental health case management experience or equivalent.
• Strong background in assessment, counseling, and risk/needs assessment.

Responsibilities

• Provide social services as a mental health professional to clients served by the Public Defender’s Office.
• Link clients to community services, refer to appropriate services, and assist with obtaining benefits.
• Obtain, review, and compile mitigating information and verify details.
• Refer clients to employment services and assist with housing and release processes.
• Obtain, review, and audit clients’ medical, mental health, school, developmental, and employment records.
• Provide referrals to community mental health providers for individuals with mental health and developmental diagnoses.
• Assist clients released from detention facilities with receiving medications.
• Complete intake/biopsychosocial assessments for new clients.
• Use short-term interventions (crisis intervention, CBT) for jail or post-release clients.
• Teach coping mechanisms to reduce recidivism; apply empowerment strategies for change.

Skills

Crisis intervention

Individual counseling

Group therapy

Assessment

Interviewing techniques

Mental health principles

English usage

Office software

Education

Master’s Degree in Sociology, Psychology, or related discipline

LMSW licensure (Texas)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Webb County in Texas seeks a licensed mental health professional to support clients within the Public Defender’s Office. You will perform intake assessments, provide counseling, and connect clients with community resources while supporting case work and court-related services.

The role emphasizes crisis intervention, short-term therapy, and empowerment strategies to reduce recidivism. Requires LMSW, Master’s degree, and relevant experience; driving may be required.