Mental Health Program Therapist (Inpatient)

About the role

As a Program Therapist (Behavioral Health Social Worker / Mental Health Therapist) at South Sound Behavioral Hospital in Lacey, WA, you will provide compassionate, evidence‑based care to patients in inpatient behavioral health programs. You will assess, plan, and deliver therapeutic services that help patients achieve stability and begin their recovery journey.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate individual, group, and family therapy sessions focused on stabilization and recovery.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans in collaboration with the multidisciplinary team.
• Conduct psychosocial assessments and maintain accurate, timely documentation.
• Coordinate discharge and after‑care planning to ensure continuity of care.
• Partner with nursing, medical, and support staff to provide high‑quality, patient‑centered treatment.
• Participate in treatment team meetings, case reviews, and program development initiatives.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a related mental‑health field.
• Washington State licensure (LICSW, LMHC, LMFT, or equivalent). Associate‑level or license‑eligible candidates are encouraged to apply.
• Minimum of two (2) years’ experience in a psychiatric or behavioral health setting preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced inpatient environment.
• Obtain CPR certification and crisis‑intervention/management training within 30 days of employment.
• Flexibility in working hours to meet program needs.
• Encouraged to obtain Department of Behavioral Health and Recovery acknowledgements (e.g., Mental Health Provider, Children’s Mental Health Specialist) if eligible.
• Commitment to professional development and adaptability to diverse program demands.

Benefits

• 401(k) with matching
• Health insurance
• 100% company‑paid life insurance coverage up to 2× annual salary
• Vision insurance
• Dental insurance
• 100% company‑paid long‑term disability insurance
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Cafeteria on site
• Free parking
• Employee engagement events
• Employee assistance program
• Employee recognition program

Pay

Full‑time position with an expected compensation range of $75,000 – $102,000 annually. Consideration will be given to experience, qualifications, and skill level.

Schedule

Full‑time schedule with required flexibility to meet program needs.

About South Sound Behavioral Hospital

South Sound Behavioral Hospital (SSBH) is a 138‑bed facility in Lacey, WA, offering cutting‑edge safety features and a multidisciplinary team of licensed psychiatrists, nurses, therapists, and technicians. The hospital provides specialized programs for mental health and substance‑use disorder treatment, delivering exceptional, person‑centered care regardless of patients’ financial circumstances. SSBH values a diverse, inclusive workforce and is committed to equal employment opportunities.