Psychologist I-CMHHIP

This position is open to current Colorado residents only.

 Please note: This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies

Colorado Mental Health Hospital in Pueblo (CMHHIP)

As a cornerstone of the Pueblo community for over a century, Colorado Mental Health Hospital in Pueblo (CMHHIP) is a leading employer, provider of quality mental health services, and a community partner. CMHHIP is a 24 hour behavioral health acute care facility that is intended to provide a safe, secure, and therapeutic setting for patients with
both psychiatric and medical issues. The services provided include evaluation and treatment for patients who are severely mentally ill, and the goal of this facility is to return patients to their optimal level of functioning and assist them in returning to the community as appropriate.

Colorado Mental Health Hospital in Pueblo (CMHHIP) is a 516-bed hospital that provides inpatient behavioral health services for adults, adolescents and geriatric patients. CMHHIP is a forensic hospital that serves individuals with pending criminal charges who require evaluations of competency, individuals who have been found by a court to be incompetent to proceed (restoration treatment) and individuals found to be not guilty by reason of insanity. There are also patients who are either committed civilly, both voluntarily and involuntarily. There are several specialties within the Psychology Department to support the treatment of patients: evaluation and assessment, consultation, education, and specialized treatment.

You are required to work at your assigned work location during your scheduled work times. 

The purpose of this position is to provide mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with psychological and emotional disorders. This position may offer individualized or group therapy, counseling, and other evidence-based interventions to help the patients cope with their conditions, improve their mental well-being, and support their recovery. This position will also collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals to develop treatment plans and ensure the overall well-being of patients admitted to CMHHIP. This position may be assigned to a specific unit or location or may be assigned to care on a referral-based services model, or both. Duties in this position include:

Patient Treatment/Specialized Treatment Methods:

• Provides evaluation, direct treatment, behavioral planning and support to unit treatment programming, either while assigned to a specific unit, or on a case-by-case referral-based model or both, within the guidance of CMHHIP policies and procedures and practice standards

• Provides scheduled, structured treatment to include group and individual therapy within the context of specialized treatment programs such as Trauma treatment, Addictions Counseling, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Functional Behavior Analysis & Programming, or other treatment modalities found to be efficacious with patients with serious mental illness. 

• Performs referrals for consultation and recommendations or longer-term interventions 

• Performs relevant evaluation and individual/group treatment for the purpose of increasing emotional regulation, coping skills, and behavior regulation

• Reviews the Positive Behavior Support (PBS) utilized on the unit to provide incentives for active treatment participation and to develop socially effective behavior

• Provides psychoeducation to patients, their families and staff as needed

• Offers assessment, recommendations and crisis intervention and support to patients referred for in acute distress

• Collaborates with multidisciplinary teams, including psychiatrists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals, to ensure comprehensive care for patients

• Develops and implements effective treatment plans (IPOC) that align with patients' unique needs and goals, while considering their cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds

• Participates in the Plan of Care (POC) process to provide interventions as required for all referred services

• Provides evidence-based individual therapy to patients, utilizing various therapeutic approaches tailored to their specific needs and goals

• Evaluates and monitors patients' progress throughout the treatment process, adjusting interventions as needed

• Facilitates group therapy sessions when necessary, fostering a supportive and therapeutic environment.

• Coaches, models interventions, and provides therapeutic coverage as needed to help maintain treatment fidelity and effectiveness in adherence with hospital policy

• Adheres to ethical guidelines and maintains confidentiality in all interactions with patients

• Practices thorough and accurate documentation in compliance with ethical and legal standards

• Maintains current knowledge of HIPAA requirements and adheres to all privacy and confidentiality of patient records

• Adheres to a set work schedule and to integrate patient treatment within the larger unit schedule

Assessments, Evaluation and Court Testimony: 

• Conducts comprehensive psychological assessments to evaluate patients' emotional, cognitive, and behavioral concerns
• Performs Psychological Assessment, Neuro-psychological screenings/testing, Risk Assessments and/or Suicide Risk Assessments, Behavioral Assessments, or any other assessments within the scope of practice
• Completes assigned assessments per MD/PA/NP referrals
• Provides feedback to the patient and clinical team members after assessment completed and instructs in appropriate treatment interventions based on findings
• Accurately diagnose and participate in the formulation of treatment plans based on psychological assessments and clinical interviews
• Prepares and delivers to courts, via expert testimony, professional opinion regarding diagnosis and treatment progress of patients under care, specific to role as treatment provider
• Completes any written report required by the court to integrate findings and recommendations
• Provides specific treatment information regarding patient progress and/or report findings of assessments/evaluations within the context of expertise and professional standing
• Maintains statistical and research knowledge of specific treatment modalities utilized and or evaluation instruments
• Maintains legal knowledge sufficient to provide testimony within a court setting
• Communicates findings clearly and succinctly
• Maintains a thorough understanding of the HIPAA requirements for any reports or testimony asked for by the court
• Answers questions required by the court officials appropriately
• Participates in training and provides expert testimony
• Consults with the Assistant Attorney General for guidance on appropriateness of planned testimony prior to the court appearance

Department/Team Collaboration/Clinical Education and Other Duties as Assigned: 

• Participates in department and CMHHIP committees and meetings as assigned

• Models and reinforces effective interpersonal skills

• Attends routine Psychology Department meetings and various meetings to represent the psychology department

• Attends and participates in Morning Report, Temporary Physical Removals (TPR’s) and Clinical Team Meetings and patient plan of care as appropriate

• Establishes or utilizes appropriate team meetings to provide clinical education/case consultation on difficult to treat patients.

• Provides professional development opportunities for direct care staff, such as nursing or other mental health providers within the context of specific CMHHIP and program needs

• Assists in helping other professionals understand and integrate the complexity of patient needs, particularly in the treatment of mental illness and restoration

• Assists others in developing skills and competencies regarding evidenced based treatments, identifying risk, and practicing frequently recommended interventions with patients

• Assists direct care and mental health care staff to identify barriers to good treatment

• Assists in helping teams identify “turf” issues and increase communication, collaboration, and cooperation

• Maintains ongoing continuing education requirements for professional licensure

• Performs any additional assigned tasks and duties within the scope of practice for this position that do not fall within duty statements above

Minimum Qualifications:

Education/Licensure/Certification/Experience:

Current, valid licensure as a Psychologist from the Colorado State Board of Psychologist Examiners

One (1) year of experience as a licensed psychologist or permitted psychologist candidate

No Substitutions

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Experience working in a clinical or psychiatric Healthcare setting

• Specialization in a specific area of clinical  psychology and psychological testing (e.g., adolescent or gerontological psychology, trauma therapy, neuropsychology)

• Ability to demonstrate expertise in evidence-based therapeutic techniques

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

• Cultural competence and sensitivity in working with diverse populations

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team

• Commitment to ongoing professional development and ethical practices

Conditions of Employment:

• Full Background check and Reference Check required
• This position requires State of Colorado residency at the time of application (unless otherwise identified in the posting), and residency within the state throughout the duration of employment in this position
• Motor Vehicle Check , if the employee will drive a state-owned vehicle, either in an on-going capacity while performing their normal day-to-day job duties OR on occasion for training/meetings/client visits/etc.
• Must possess a valid, non-restricted Colorado Driver’s License or an non-restricted U.S. Driver's License for positions within 30 miles of the CO state border
• Out-of-State Driver’s License holders must obtain a valid, non-restricted Colorado Driver’s License within 30 days of employment start date. 
• Other Conditions of Employment specific to Program
• Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must:
  1. Disclose that information on the application.
  2. Explain why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify you from the current position.
  3. Provide your employee number from your prior State employment.  Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination and failure to provide this information will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with CDHS.

• Shall not initiate or engage in sexual, social, personal or financial relationships with patients either during or any time after hospitalization, even if the patient requests or initiates such a relationship All relationships with current or former patients must be disclosed on your application
• Successfully pass all modules of the CMHIP New Employee Orientation core curriculum to include English reading comprehension, relevant competency assessments and written/practical exams in Defensive Tactics
• Possess the physical ability to successfully complete hospital adopted physical intervention training and CPR
• Lift arms above head and kick as high as own waist
• Stabilize another person to accomplish a controlled containment to the floor
• Withstand impact on own body using an ASP shield
• Rotate body 90 degrees with feet planted for using a defensive tactic
• Kneel on one or both knees and stand up again with multiple repetitions
• Must be able to see and hear in order to observe, address and respond to potential breaches in safety
• Seize, hold, control or subdue violent or assaultive persons and defend oneself or others to prevent injury
• Demonstrate body agility, strength of all four limbs and the ability to walk and climb stairs consistently
• Work in situations involving assaultive behavior, physical control of another person and/or restraint situations
• Ability to read and comprehend the English language; effectively and fluently communicates in English, both verbally and in writing
• Work in an environment with fluctuating noise and temperature (hot and cold) which may include working outdoors in inclement weather and/or concrete floor/wall work settings 
• Willing and able to travel
• 2-step TB (tuberculosis) screening is required of all new employees upon hire
• Annual influenza vaccination
• Other vaccinations as required by the State of Colorado

CDHS Selection Process Explanation:

Employment history is calculated on a full-time basis (40/hrs. per week). Part-time employment is calculated on a prorated basis to determine qualifications. Be sure your application specifically addresses your qualifications, experience, work products, and accomplishments as they relate to the position and minimum requirements. 

• Preferred Qualifications & Competencies:
  • Relevant years of state service experience.

Minimum Qualification Screening Process:

A Human Resources Analyst will review the work experience/job duties sections of the online job application to determine whether your experience meets the minimum qualifications for the position.  You must complete the official State of Colorado online application.   Cover letters and resumes WILL NOT be reviewed during the minimum qualifications screening process. You must specifically document your work experience and qualifications in the application form. Do not use "see resume" or "see attached."

You must meet the minimum qualifications to continue in the selection process.  Part-time work experience will be prorated.

Comparative Analysis Process – Structured Application Review:

After minimum qualification screening, the comparative analysis process will involve reviewing and rating of all the information you submit. The comparative analysis step may also include your results from standardized testing. 

Your Work Experience/Job Duties:

Document your work experience/job duties to the extent to which you possess the skills, education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications. 

If listed, answer all supplemental questions as your answers to these questions will be evaluated during this phase. Provide at least 4-8 sentences for each supplemental question.

Supplemental Questions:

Answer the supplemental questions completely and thoughtfully. We will rate your answers  based on the content of your response and your writing skills (spelling, grammar, and clarity of your writing).

APPEAL RIGHTS:

You may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director if your application is eliminated.  You will find the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it on the State Personnel Board website.

• You or your representative must sign and submit the official appeal form for review.  
• You can find the official appeal form here. 
• You must be deliver the official appeal form to the State Personnel Board:
  • By email ([email protected]), or
  • Postmarked in US Mail to(1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203, or 
  • Hand delivered (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203), or
  • Faxed (303.866.5038) within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department’s action.

Contact the State Personnel Board for assistance:

• At (303) 866-3300, or
• Refer to the  Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, within the Rules webpage.

For additional recruiting questions, please contact ellie.cassio@state.co.us 

About Us & Benefits: 

If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference, join the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). Our professionals strive to design and deliver high quality human and health services that improve the safety, independence, and well-being of the people of Colorado. Each of us is committed to contributing to a safe and accessible CDHS. In addition to a great location and rewarding and meaningful work, we offer:

• Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans
• Medical and dental health plans
• Employer supplemented Health Savings Account
• Paid life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• 11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave
• State of Colorado Employee BenefitHub Resource Center
• Employee Wellness program
• Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, training and more
• Remote work arrangements for eligible positions
• *Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Our Values:

• We believe in a people-first approach: We prioritize the needs, well-being, and dignity of the individuals, families and communities we serve. We commit to respect, fairness and access in every decision, policy and interaction. We engage client voices and experiences in the development and implementation of the services we provide.
• Balance creates quality of life: We want our team to be resilient through a supportive workplace that values flexibility, health and wellness, and employee engagement.
• We hold ourselves accountable: We take responsibility through our actions, programs, and results for the state of health and human services in Colorado.
• Transparency matters: We are open and honest with employees, our partners, the Coloradans we serve, and the public.
• We are ethical: We abide by what is best for those we serve by doing what is right, not what is easy.
• Collaboration helps us rise together: We work together with all partners, employees, and clients to achieve the best outcomes for Coloradans.

ADA Accommodations:
CDHS is committed to a Colorado for ALL qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment. 

This includes completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or performing essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to [email protected].

EEO Statement:

The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer

We are committed to increasing a “Colorado for ALL" of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities.   
 
The State of Colorado believes that a “Colorado for ALL” drives our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

Additional Support For Your Application:

Toll Free Applicant Technical Support

If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV technical support at 855-524-5627 Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time).  Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application 1) ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and 2) close the document before you attempt to upload (attach) it.