Social Work / Counselor III (Behavioral Health Specialist) - Gilliam Youth Services Center.

State of Colorado; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Behavioral Health Specialist to provide essential therapeutic services to youth in custody. This role involves conducting assessments, therapy, and case management while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to foster the growth and reintegration of young individuals. The ideal candidate will possess a current Colorado mental health licensure and demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based practices. Join a forward-thinking organization that prioritizes a people-first approach and supports diverse backgrounds in making a significant impact on the lives of Colorado youth.

Benefits

Great benefit package

Work-life balance

Training and development opportunities

Support for diverse backgrounds

Qualifications

• At least one year of relevant experience in mental health counseling.
• Ability to obtain Colorado mental health licensure within one year.

Responsibilities

• Conduct therapy sessions and assess developmental needs.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support treatment plans.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure confidentiality.

Skills

Therapeutic Services

Crisis Management

Assessment and Treatment Planning

Documentation and Communication

Education

Current Colorado or participating state licensure (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, LAC)

Job description

Position Opening: Behavioral Health Specialist - Youth Services

This position is open only to Colorado state residents.

Please note: This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies at the locations listed below.

Most State of Colorado employees are eligible for a great benefit package! Please see the Supplemental Information section below for details!

Division of Youth Services - Gilliam Youth Services Center

About the Division of Youth Services:

The Division of Youth Services (DYS) provides residential and non-residential services, including juvenile detention, commitment, and parole. DYS cares for youth aged 10 to 21 who are pre-adjudicated, sentenced, or committed, operating fifteen secure facilities and contracting with private providers across Colorado. For more information, visit: https://www.colorado.gov/cdhs/dys

Summary of Work Unit:

The DYS aims to develop youth's skills for responsible citizenship. Behavioral Health Specialists provide evidence-based therapeutic services to youth in custody, supporting their growth and successful reintegration into the community, adhering to the DYS treatment model and Sanctuary principles.

Position Summary:

This role functions as a mental health counselor, providing assessment, therapy, case management, and crisis services to detained and committed youth, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and supporting treatment plans.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Provide Treatment: Conduct therapy sessions, assess developmental needs, document interventions, and collaborate with medical and educational teams.
2. Assessment and Treatment Planning: Review assessments, engage families, monitor mental health status, and develop treatment goals.
3. Training and Consultation: Stay current on best practices, train staff, participate in supervision, and contribute to program development.
4. Documentation and Communication: Maintain accurate records, ensure confidentiality, and communicate effectively with stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications:

Current Colorado or participating state licensure as an LSW, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, or LAC, with at least one year of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience as a Colorado state employee.

Conditions of Employment:

• Ability to obtain Colorado mental health licensure within one year.
• Valid US driver’s license, background checks, and compliance with agency training requirements.
• No felony or domestic violence convictions.

Application and Support:

For questions, contact: [e-mail]

Our Values and Commitment:

We prioritize a people-first approach, work-life balance, accountability, transparency, ethics, and collaboration. We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and abilities. We support reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.

Join us in making a difference in the lives of Colorado youth. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer.