Posting number: 2026-05964
Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services
Division: BHHA
Job classification: BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SPECIALIST 3
Posting type: Open & Promotional
Categories: Mental Health, Social Services, Human Services, Counseling
SummaryDSHS WSH Behavioral Health Specialist 3Western State Hospital, adult psychiatric hospital, has a full-time opportunity for Behavioral Health Specialist within the Psychiatric Treatment and Recovery Centers. Join us and make a positive impact within our community by becoming a behavioral health advocate while helping shape the future of health services for a safe and therapeutic environment.
Our Behavioral Health Specialist 3 job (formerly called Institution Counselor 3) is an exciting opportunity for a meaningful career where you have the ability to grow and enjoy the work you do. You'll plan, acquire supplies, implement, and review active treatment groups and one-on-one active treatment.
Join our Competency Restoration and Not Guilty By Reason of Insanity team within the Gage Rehabilitation program.
Some of what you'll do:
- Actively engage patients in direct care, leading or co-leading Active Treatment Groups either on-ward and/or within the treatment mall setting
- Complete required active treatment documentation, including progress notes, interventions in treatment plans or addendums, and attendance records
- Develop comprehensive active treatment groups and individual treatment strategies for patient caseload using standard practices and evidence-based treatment for regular occurring events and one-time engagements
- Attend treatment team and daily team meetings to discuss progress, share input, and provide a strategy for patient treatment
- Research evidence-based practices and group preparation
- Order/gather supplies for groups, and escort patients to and from activities and groups
- Assist in planning, coordinating, and executing court-ordered Staff Escorted Community Outings
Who should apply:
Those with a bachelor’s degree, preferably involving a major in sociology, psychology, or another social science
And
Two years of experience working with clients in a psychiatric or mental health setting
Or
One year as a Behavioral Health Specialist 2
Or
Equivalent combination of education/experience
Nursing Assistant or registration as a Nursing Assistant (NAR), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Nursing Assistant Certified (NAC)
Employees obtain and maintain an Agency Affiliated Counselor registration from the Washington State Department of Health within 30 days of employment as a condition of employment. More information can be found here.
Skills, knowledge and abilities:
- Experience with Counseling/Teaching in a group setting
- In-depth working knowledge of group and individual behavior and dynamics
- Knowledge of behavioral health issues and recovery principles
- Knowledge of all hospital, state, and federal regulatory standards, policies, and procedures
- Ability to work with difficult or angry patients in a therapeutic, non-threatening manner
- Ability to use good judgment and self-direct under minimal supervision
- Proficient in oral, written, and electronic communication skills
Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter and reference 05964.
The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.
Supplemental informationPrior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. 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 job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
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