DSHS SCC Psychologist 4

State of Washington$93K — $160K *
Healthcare
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program
  • One year of post-doctoral psychology experience
  • Licensed in the state of WA based on previous education and experience
  • Preferred experience in forensic, mental health, or correctional settings
  • Knowledge of treatment for sexual offenders as per ATSA guidelines

Responsibilities

  • Develop and lead evidence-based treatment groups
  • Provide individualized 1:1 intervention to selected clients
  • Attend, lead, and contribute to resident treatment team meetings
  • Administer and score testing to inform treatment recommendations
  • Complete electronic documentation of treatment sessions and incident reports
  • Develop case conceptualizations for individualized treatment planning
  • Participate in depositions and testify as needed

Benefits

  • Up to 25 paid vacation days annually
  • 8 hours of paid sick leave per month
  • 12 paid holidays per year
  • Generous retirement plan
  • Flex Spending Accounts
  • Dependent Care Assistance
  • Deferred Compensation
  • Free ferry transportation from Steilacoom to McNeil Island
Full Job Description
Salary: $93,288.00 - $160,692.00 Annually
Location : Pierce County - Steilacoom, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number:
Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services
Division: BHHA
Opening Date: 06/22/2026
Closing Date: 7/5/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

Description
Do you enjoy providing meaningful assistance to those in need?

Are you looking for a great opportunity to further your career in psychology?

The Special Commitment Center (SCC) (Part of the Behavioral Health & Habilitation Administration or BHHA) is seeking a Psychologist with experience or desire to work with individuals with various paraphilias and personality disorders to join their dedicated team on McNeil Island. The Special Commitment Center is committed to providing evidence-based treatment to reduce recidivism and increase public safety.

Whether you are an experienced clinician and supervisor, or just getting started in the field, we have a spot for you. This role allows the opportunity to gain experience as a clinician and supervisor with the support of other team leaders and program managers.

Those who are not yet licensed can be hired with an In-Training period that provides those with a doctorate degree the ability to acquire knowledge, skills, and abilities to serve as a Treatment Team Lead and provide the opportunity to begin supervising clinicians, both administratively and clinically. During the In-Training period, you'll become familiarized with the SCC organization and be exposed to work within an evolving treatment program that focuses on evidence-based practices, research-based interventions, and approaches.

The position requires traveling to and from McNeil Island on a ferry. The ferry ride is considered commute time and not a paid portion of the work day. The ferry schedule may be impacted by severe weather and/or tides.

Pierce County employees are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use. Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
Some of what you'll do:
  • Develop and lead evidence-based treatment groups
  • Provide individualized 1:1 intervention to selected clients
  • Attend, lead, and contribute to resident treatment team meetings, conferences, or debriefs
  • Administer and score testing to inform treatment recommendations
  • Complete electronic documentation of individual treatment sessions, observation reports, incident reports, and other official documentation
  • Develop case conceptualizations for use in development and implement individualized treatment planning
  • Participate in depositions and, if required, testify as a fact-witness

What we're looking for:
  • A Doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited school or department of psychology;

AND
  • One year of post-doctoral psychology experience;

OR
  • This job can be filled as a for those licensed in the state of WA, based upon applicant's experience, previous education, and WA's licensure within this specialized field.

Preferred/Desired Qualifications:
  • Ability to provide clinical leadership and direction to clinical staff and interdisciplinary teams.
  • Experience planning and implementing individual and group interventions for individuals in a forensic, mental health, or correctional setting.
  • Knowledge of sex offense specific treatment outlined by the Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers (ATSA).
  • Knowledge of treatment adaptation needs for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
  • Ability to collaboratively, professionally, and effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team
  • Ability to work independently, meet deadlines and prioritize work, and willingness for flexibility.
  • Ability to work with a diverse population.
  • Ability to maintain firm and professional boundaries
  • Adherence to SCC and DSHS policy, legislation and/or law changes that may affect current licensure and/or registration requirements

To Apply:
  • Complete our online application and attach your resume or CV.


What We Offer:
As an employee of the Department of Social and Health Services, your work-life integration is a priority. Washington State employees are offered one of the most inclusive and competitive benefits packages in the nation. Besides comprehensive family insurance for medical, dental, and vision, these perks may also include:

  • Up to 25 paid vacations days a year
  • 8 hours of paid sick leave per month
  • 12 paid holidays a year
  • Generous retirement plan
  • Flex Spending Accounts
  • Dependent Care Assistance
  • Deferred Compensation
  • Ferry transportation from Steilacoom to McNeil Island and so much more!

While working at the Special Commitment Center you will also have regular opportunities for supervision, consultation, and training to increase your clinical expertise and explore areas of interest. This can include supervision toward various licensures including CSOTP and accrual of post-doctoral hours.

Questions? Email or call the main Talent Acquisition line at 360-725-5810 and reference job number 04719.

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