Psychologist - Corrections - Soledad, CA

Position Title: Psychologist
Location: Correctional Facility in Soledad, California
Pay Rate: $144.64 to $146.64 per hour
Schedule: Full-time contract, 6 to 9 months, with eligibility for extension

Qualifications

• At least 12 months of continuous direct patient care experience within the last 3 years in a public or private institution
• Clinical competencies must be current
• Valid photo ID (Drivers License or Passport)
• Active Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association
• Valid California Psychologist license (hard copy required)

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage
• Bonus for contract extension
• Forty hours of paid sick leave
• Weekly direct deposit payroll
• Pre-employment screenings including physical exam, drug test, mask fit testing, and background check are fully paid
• Opportunity to transition into a permanent state position with full benefits, depending on availability

Key Responsibilities

• Provide psychological services to mentally ill inmates under the supervision of the Senior Psychologist, Supervisor, or Chief of Mental Health
• Supervise and maintain the conduct of inmates while ensuring safety and order
• Serve as clinician-of-the-day for emergency situations during scheduled workdays
• Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary staff to foster a positive working environment
• Perform comprehensive mental health evaluations including psychological, criminal, and substance abuse histories
• Provide crisis intervention, group and individual psychotherapy, and in-person assessments
• Conduct clinical interviews at cell fronts when required and navigate multi-level housing units if necessary
• Identify psychiatric symptoms and accurately assess, diagnose, and manage treatment
• Administer and interpret psychological assessments across various modalities
• Create treatment plans and clinical documentation consistent with industry standards
• Participate in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings and consult on complex cases
• Document all patient care and monitor treatment progress using SOAPE-formatted notes
• Conduct mental status exams during face-to-face evaluations
• Review relevant medical and legal records to aid in treatment planning and diagnosis
• Build and maintain partnerships with approved community resources and support services
• Provide mental health education and support programming for inmates, including sex offenders
• Assist inmates with applications for SSI and other support services
• Analyze audit data related to mental health compliance requirements
• Submit attendance and appointment documentation to support administrative staff
• Communicate with family members or caregivers upon receipt of signed release documentation
• Develop strong therapeutic relationships with inmates and their families to support effective treatment
• Represent the department in professional settings and contribute to mental health discussions
• Provide feedback and contribute to the development and implementation of new rehabilitation and training programs