This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.
The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.
Summary
Provides a range of psychological assessment, diagnostic, therapeutic, and/or case management services for individuals, couples, groups, and/or families, as appropriate to the specific expectations of the position. Typically works under the direct guidance of a clinical professional within the environment of a clinical agency or a medical/hospital facility. May provide practical training and guidance to students and/or paraprofessional staff, as required.
Duties and Responsibilities
Provides counseling, therapy, and/or psychotherapy to clients and families as appropriate to the position; prepares treatment plans, discharge plans, and follow-up care programs; provides therapeutic crisis intervention and emergency services as required.
Collects data about patients through interview, case history, psychological tests, and/or observational techniques; evaluates data to identify causes of problems and to determine proper therapeutic approach or referral to other specialists.
Provides casework management of a specialized caseload, as appropriate to the requirements of the individual position; performs research and case assessments; prepares individualized studies for admission, placement, and/or discharge, as applicable.
Provides and/or arranges for therapeutic interventions as appropriate for patients or clients in a crisis condition and for those with serious disturbance problems.
Follows up to determine reliability and validity of treatment used; makes recommendations regarding modification to services and service delivery.
Consults with other legal and treatment agencies and individuals in relation to patient/client records, rights, and responsibilities.
Consults with other therapists and related professional and paraprofessional staff, as appropriate, in the performance of therapeutic and/or casework; refers clients to appropriate service agencies as required.
Participates in the review of clinical issues and program policies and procedures.
Participates in, leads, and/or coordinates training sessions and workshops to enhance treatment skills.
May lead paraprofessionals in performance of clinical duties.
May serve as Campus Security Authority as outlined by the Clery Act.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
Master's degree in Counseling, Social Work, or directly related field; at least 6 months of directly related experience which may include internship and/or practicum.
Certification/Licensure
NM licensure as LPCC, LPC, LMHC, LMSW, LCSW, or equivalent level, OR licensed out of state and eligible for NM licensure.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Ability to apply mental health counseling methods and techniques.
Knowledge of community mental health resources.
Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques.
Knowledge of clinical operations and procedures.
Knowledge of case management.
Knowledge and understanding of clinical counseling principles, programs and methodology.
Interviewing and psychological/developmental evaluation skills.
Knowledge and understanding of clinical social work and mental health counseling principles, methods, procedures, and standards.
Ability to evaluate the progress of therapeutic programs and to make individual modifications.
Ability to maintain emotional stability to cope with human suffering, emergencies, and other stresses.
Knowledge of psychological test administration, scoring, and interpretation.
Knowledge of legal and ethical issues related to patients' rights.
Ability to develop and present educational programs and/or workshops.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Position requires: a) provision of direct therapeutic mental health services and treatment planning as part of a therapeutic services team of professional and/or paraprofessional staff b) crisis intervention and provision of emergency services; b) patient psychosocial evaluation and testing; c) determination of appropriate therapeutic approaches or referral of patients in consultation with other professionals; d) participation in the delivery of professional training sessions and workshops.
Conditions of Employment
Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
May be subject to credentialing process; must maintain credentialed status, if applicable.
Must maintain certification status.
Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
No or very limited physical effort required.
Work environment involves minimal exposure to physical risks, such as operating dangerous equipment or working with chemicals.
Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.
