Psychological Services Specialist, DOC - SCI Phoenix

About the role

The Psychological Services Specialist with the Department of Corrections is a chance to guide meaningful change by supporting the mental health needs of inmates at SCI Phoenix. This role allows you to build trust, encourage positive growth, and strengthen emotional well-being. You will have the opportunity to help individuals learn healthier ways to manage challenges.

Description of Work

This position focuses on providing psychological services that support the emotional and mental health needs of inmates at SCI Phoenix. Work involves counseling, evaluation, collaboration with staff, and participation in key institutional programs. As a Psychological Services Specialist, you will perform the following duties:

• Counseling Services: Provide individual and group counseling that supports positive behavior and emotional adjustment
• Behavior Assessment: Interview inmates, conduct tests, and interpret results to determine appropriate treatment steps
• Treatment Planning: Develop case formulations, behavior plans, and referral recommendations for further intervention
• Interdepartmental Coordination: Work with institutional departments and outside agencies to support timely delivery of services
• Crisis Response: Offer immediate mental health support to inmates in crisis situations as needed
• Program Participation: Serve on institutional committees and contribute information that supports program decisions

Work Schedule and Additional Information

Full-time employment, 37.5 hours per week. Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Sunday - Thursday, with a 30-minute lunch. This position is eligible for full retirement benefits at age 50 or 55. Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.

Salary

In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable. Additional pay will be considered for those who currently possess or obtain licensure as a Social Worker, Clinical Social Worker, or Professional Counselor issued by the Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Counselors. Documentation will need to be provided at interview to receive additional pay consideration.

Required Experience, Training & Eligibility

Qualifications:

• A master’s degree in psychology or a closely related field that includes fifteen graduate level credits in psychology or counseling. Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree.
• Other Requirements: Successful completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, PA is required. You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements

You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.

How to Apply

Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).