The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is seeking a full-time or part-time Intake and Eligibility Psychologist to join our Metro Regional Office. This role will provide clinical assessment and evaluation at the request of the Regional Director or designee, including participation in eligibility determinations, emergency case reviews and other specialized clinical assessments and evaluations. The Intake and Eligibility Psychologist will also maintain a current working knowledge of professional developments in the field, trends, policies and procedures, diagnosis of Intellectual and Developmental Disability, and related subjects.
The position is located at the Department's Metro Regional Office in Waltham.
As a representative of the Department, the Intake and Eligibility Psychologist may be asked to participate in inter-agency collaborative efforts and perform other related work as required.
Duties and Responsibilities (this is a general summary and not a complete list of duties) - Provides overall clinical leadership to the Regional Eligibility Team, including training on the definition of intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder and a host of various genetic conditions.
- Provides direction and guidance to Eligibility Team Specialists and the Eligibility Team Coordinator regarding the collection of structured and non-structured observational data related to adaptive functioning
- Reviews all historical records and reports, including summaries prepared by Eligibility Specialists, to determine the need for new assessments of intellectual and/or adaptive behavior functioning.
- Based on gathered information, the Psychologist will write eligibility determinations
- Participates in all appeals of eligibility determinations in conjunction with designated Regional Manager
- Works collaboratively with Regional Nursing Home Specialist on determination of eligibility for Nursing Facility candidates.
- Maintains knowledge of professional developments in the fields of psychological assessment, diagnosis of developmental disabilities, and related subjects.
• Performs related duties as required
Required Qualifications Applicants must have a Doctorate in Psychology from school accredited by the American Psychological Association.
Applicants must also have at least three years of years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience as a Licensed Psychologist in the application of psychological principles and techniques in a recognized agency providing psychological services or treatment, of which (B) at least one year must have included supervision over Post-doctoral Psychologists-in-training and/or Psychological Assistants.
Preferred Qualifications - Knowledge of the types, symptoms, and presentation of emotional and psychiatric disorders in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
- Knowledge of principles and practices of tests and measurements used in ascertaining intelligence, aptitudes, personality, and related mental and physical traits.
- Be well versed in the administration and interpretation of psychological tests, motivational interviewing, autism experience across the lifespan, trauma informed care.
- Ability to maintain accurate records and exercise discretion in handling confidential information; resolve problems and conflicts in a diplomatic and tactful manner.
- Skilled in establishing rapport and dealing tactfully with individuals and their family members from varied religious, ethnic, cultural, economic backgrounds, and/or under physical, emotional stress, or in stressful settings.
- Demonstrates thoroughness, independence, and excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to seek guidance and support, take direction from supervisors and clinical consultants when needed.
- Extensive knowledge and understanding of policy and procedures pertaining to individuals served by DDS.
- Knowledge of the DDS and generic programs, services, and resources available to individuals with developmental disabilities and ASD only.
- Knowledge of the laws, rules, regulations, polices, procedures, specifications, standards, and guidelines governing assigned duties.
- Proficient usage of Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, and Outlook
- Based on assignment, travel may be required. Those employees who elect to use a motor vehicle for travel must have a current and valid Massachusetts Class D motor Vehicle Operator's license or the equivalent from another state.
Please Note: This position can be either Full-Time or Part-Time.
Full-Time = 40 hours per week, Part-Time = 20 hours per week
Qualifications:First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days. Minimum Entrance Requirements:
Applicants must have a Doctorate in Psychology from school accredited by the American Psychological Association.
Applicants must also have at least three years of years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience as a Licensed Psychologist in the application of psychological principles and techniques in a recognized agency providing psychological services or treatment, of which (B) at least one year must have included supervision over Post-doctoral Psychologists-in-training and/or Psychological Assistants.
Special Requirements:
Current and valid registration as a Psychologist by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Psychology.
Based on assignment, must meet the eligibility requirements for Designated Forensic Psychologist in 104 CMR 33.04(3)(b).
Based on assignment, travel may be required. Those employees who elect to use a motor vehicle for travel must have a current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator's license or the equivalent from another state.
Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate's years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.
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