Mental Health Counselor - Sheriff

About the role

The purpose of this class is to provide professional mental health counseling services to incarcerated individuals to promote optimum mental health and emotional well-being. The incumbent conducts individual and group counseling sessions, performs mental health assessments, develops and implements treatment plans, and provides crisis intervention services. The position also serves as a liaison between the criminal justice system and mental health treatment agencies while ensuring compliance with applicable laws, policies, and confidentiality requirements.

Responsibilities

• Provide individual and group counseling for mental health, substance abuse, and behavioral needs
• Conduct mental health assessments and develop personalized treatment plans
• Deliver crisis intervention during urgent mental health situations
• Maintain accurate, confidential records and progress reports
• Collaborate with medical staff, correctional teams, and community providers
• Monitor progress and adjust treatment strategies for better outcomes
• Support reentry efforts through discharge planning and coordination

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in psychology, sociology, counseling, or a related field required.
• Experience in mental health treatment, counseling, or a related field preferred.
• Must successfully pass a criminal background investigation.
• Must successfully pass a background check before any offer of employment or promotion.
• This position is safety sensitive and is subject to testing for alcohol and controlled substances in accordance with the City’s current substance abuse policy.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain a satisfactory driving record in accordance with the City of Hampton’s criteria.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of correctional systems and the criminal justice process is desirable.
• Licensure through the Virginia State clinical therapy board is preferred.

Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Proficient in computer software relevant to the job

Benefits

Benefits begin on the 1st of the month following one full calendar month of employment. Benefits include:

• Sentara Health Medical Insurance
• OptumRx Delta Dental Insurance
• Anthem Blue View Vision
• FSAs Reimbursement accounts
• Standard: Accident and Critical Illness Trust
• Mark Universal Life Insurance
• Legal Resources Plan
• Virginia 529 Mission Square

Pay

Pay details are not specified in the job posting.

Schedule

Schedule details are not specified in the job posting.

Additional Resources

For more information about the City of Hampton, visit our website.