Washington State Bar Association Looking For Psychotherapist

WSBA JOB SPECIFICATIONS

Title: PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Department: LaSD
Immediate Supervisor: Director, Lawyer Services
Job Grade: 11
Immediate Subordinates: None
FLSA Status: Exempt
Approval Date: 082306
Approved By: BHarper

I. General Summary: In two to four sentences state the major purpose, objective, or function of the position.

To maximize the mental health and occupational functioning of lawyers with the goal of enhancing their contribution to the community. To address problems pertaining to mental health, substance abuse, and occupational functioning that affect lawyers’ performance negatively. To prevent problems that can result in lawyer discipline and lowered esteem of the profession. Support WSBA diversity initiatives by providing outreach and education to diverse legal membership groups.

II. Principal Duties and Responsibilities: Briefly describe the work actually performed and list in order of importance. Begin each sentence with an active verb, such as assists, plans, performs, administers, etc. Focus on the purpose of the function and the results to be accomplished. Also indicate the approximate percentage of time each duty/responsibility is performed.

1. Provide psychological services to lawyers: assess current functioning, refer when appropriate, conduct individual and group psychotherapy, consult with other professionals, manage crises, coordinate client and peer counselor interactions. 60%

2. Develop and implement outreach strategies targeted at the education of diverse membership groups on mental health issues, treatment options and prevention. 20%

3. Provide information and referral to lawyers and third party callers on mental health issues (including substance abuse) via telephone and letter. 10%
4. Participate in the training of peer counselors to be effective support persons. Maintain the peer counselor network and provide ongoing support and education. 3%

5. Maintain progress notes on the progress of clients. 2%

6. Facilitate topical support groups. 3%

7. Keep current and enhance clinical knowledge base: attend professional conferences and workshops; keep current with continuing education credits in compliance with state rules, participate in weekly clinical consultations, read professional newsletters, periodicals and professional literature. participation in LAP/LaSD Statewide Conference

8. Perform other duties as assigned. 2%

III. Background

A. Supervision: List the number of people the position supervises, either directly or through subordinates, and describe the degree of supervision. Also describe the extent to which the job is supervised, i.e. minimal, refers unusual situations to supervisor, close supervision, etc.

This position requires no direct supervision of other staff members. The department director is supervisor. Due to the nature of the position and responsibilities, there is considerable autonomy.

B. Confidentiality: Describe the exposure level to confidential information. Explain the type of information handled.

Involves obtaining information within a context that requires maintaining the highest level of confidentiality: personal histories, present psychological / physical / substance abuse status, professional stressors and challenges within the workplace. This takes place within the guidelines of Washington State and federal (HIPAA) law.

C. Mental Application: Describe the nature of the decision-making ability the position requires versus the extent to which the work is governed by established policies and procedures.

Ongoing assessment and occasional crisis monitoring of clients’ clinical status is a requisite and integral part of the therapist position, as it guides appropriate management and therapeutic response. These responsibilities are carried out within the parameters of the LAP’s policies and procedures.

D. Problem Solving: Describe the types of challenges and problems the position encounters and must use good judgment in selecting the best course of action.

Therapy clients generally present with a complex network of psychological, physical, and relationship concerns that necessitate appropriate clinical intervention. Determining an appropriate and timely course of action is particularly essential when the situation is potentially harmful to the client and / or others. Familiarity with community resources contributes to an optimal clinical response.

E. Responsibilities: State the extent to which an error in judgment on the job would result in loss of time, expense, or public/member goodwill.

Due to the nature of the therapeutic process, with its very specific focus on the psychological and behavioral functioning of an individual, assessment and sound judgment are a constant necessity. This responsibility is taken very seriously as a client’s emotional and physical well-being is at stake.
F. Internal and Public Contacts: Describe the level of contact with others outside and within the organization. Consider the level of topics discussed, as well as the number of contacts and their effect on WSBA operations. List meetings/committees that are regularly attended.

The majority of contacts involve members of the WSBA and the issues addressed are both personal and confidential in nature. Contact with WSBA members and other community professionals occurs through various committee meetings and trainings (e.g., local and specialty bars, law school professors and administrators, DMCJA Judicial Assistance Committee, LOMAP advisors, LAP peer counselors, , and the annual LAP/LaSD sponsored conference)

G. Magnitude and Scope: (Dollars affected) List the amount and type of financial impact.

Minimal financial impact. Client fees help to defray LAP operating expenses.

IV. Conditions and Equipment

A. Working Conditions: List the conditions, other than office environment, that the position must work under, i.e. deadlines, stressful situations, high work volumes, etc.

Conducting psychotherapy and making referrals can be stressful, especially if the client is highly stressed or experiencing an emergency. Psychotherapy session time limits must be respected.

B. Equipment Operation: List the type of equipment that is used by this position and the knowledge/skill level required.

Personal computer, word processing, Internet

V. Specifications: List the education, knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job duties (include any required licenses or certificates).

A. Education Required: Masters or doctoral degree and Washington State licensure in field of expertise.

B. Experience Required: 5 years’ providing psychological assessment and clinical counseling.

C. Abilities/Skills Required: Proficiency in psychotherapy and crisis management; knowledge of substance abuse and treatment; familiarity with the legal profession. Excellent writing and oral presentation skills.

VI. Reasonable Accommodation: List the essential functions of the job that must be performed, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Sitting for extended periods, talking, operating office equipment (fax, photocopy machine, computer, telephone)

For information on where to send your resume and other pertinent details go to:

http://www.wsba.org/jobs/wsba.htm