Staff Therapist (Multiple Openings)

About the role

University Counseling Service (UCS) provides opportunities for meaningful focus on serving students first and foremost. UCS is an ideal setting for psychologists and therapists seeking both professional purpose and personal balance. You’ll support students during a pivotal stage of their development and have the opportunity to make a lasting impact through counseling, consultation, outreach, and preventative work. There are also opportunities to shape the next generation of clinicians through supervision and mentorship in our training programs, simultaneously enriching your own professional practice.

This requisition represents multiple Staff Therapist openings within the department. By applying, you will be considered for all available Staff Therapist positions, including roles in University Housing & Dining (UHD), Tippie College of Business, College of Dentistry, Mental Health Navigator, and University Counseling Service (UCS). Positions in Housing & Dining are embedded within its campus unit, while others are based in the main UCS office. All positions provide tailored, accessible mental health support to students.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a caseload delivering individual, couples, and group therapy using brief, evidence-based models.
• Evaluate mental health concerns and develop appropriate, goal-oriented treatment plans.
• Respond to urgent and emergent mental health situations within the residence halls.
• Complete timely and accurate electronic health records in accordance with ethical and legal standards.
• Facilitate referrals, follow-ups, and coordination with campus and community providers.
• Develop and facilitate workshops and psychoeducational programs for students, staff, faculty, and families.
• Offer guidance, training, and support to residence life staff on student mental health concerns.
• Provide clinical supervision, mentorship, and evaluation for graduate trainees in mental health disciplines.
• Provide debriefing and emotional support to students and staff following critical incidents.
• Partner with campus units to enhance services, analyze program outcomes, and support continuous improvement.

Requirements

Staff Therapists (UHD, Tippie, College of Dentistry, & UCS):

• Doctoral degree in either counseling or clinical psychology from an APA-accredited program or Master’s degree in social work with clinical focus from CSWE-accredited program or Master’s degree in counseling from CACREP-accredited program.
• Social Worker or Mental Health Counselor: Possession of a valid State of Iowa license as an LISW or LMHC. Psychologist: Possession of valid State of Iowa license as psychologist or within 18 months of hire. License must be maintained as a condition of continued employment.
• Relevant post-degree clinical work experience (typically 1-3 years).
• Comprehensive knowledge of evidence-based and theory-driven mental health counseling practices—including assessment, crisis intervention, individual and group counseling, trauma-informed care, and case management—and exceptional ability to assess, oversee, and ensure the delivery of high-quality mental health, trauma, and crisis management services.

Mental Health Navigator/Staff Therapist:

• Master’s degree in Social Work with clinical focus from a CSWE-Accredited program, or Master’s degree in Counseling from a CACREP-Accredited Program.
• Licensed as an LISW or LMHC in the State of Iowa by date of hire. License must be maintained as a condition of continued employment.
• Knowledge of evidence and theory-based mental health case management, supportive referrals, crisis assessment, and intervention, and diagnostic and psychosocial assessment.
• Proficiency in collaborating, interacting, and building relationships with individuals and groups while valuing the unique contribution of individuals.
• Familiarity with local mental health providers and systems, or the demonstrated ability to establish effective community partnerships.

Benefits

• Exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, and robust retirement plans.
• Generous leave policies and 24/7 support services.
• Well-being resources and access to UI Health Care specialists.
• Professional growth opportunities, including advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.

Pay

Starting salary minimum: $70,000.00.

About the location

Iowa City is the largest city in Johnson County, Iowa, and the home of the University of Iowa. Known for its vibrant downtown, historic landmarks like the Old Capitol Building, and lively cultural scene, it is the fifth-largest city in Iowa with a population of about 76,000. The city serves as a hub for education, arts, and community life, offering world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation. The University of Iowa plays a central role in shaping student experiences and community life.

About the division

The Division of Student Life (DSL) embraces new ideas and works together to keep students safe while providing life-changing experiences. Comprising 15 departments, DSL fosters student success by creating and promoting educationally purposeful services and activities within and beyond the classroom.