Posting number: 2026-05723
Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services
Division: DDA
Job classification: PSYCHOLOGY ASSOCIATE
Posting type: Open & Promotional
Categories: Health Services, Mental Health, Social Services, Human Services, Counseling
DSHS DDA Psychology Associate
The Psychology Associate serves as a key member of the Region 3 Regional Clinical Team, providing clinical problem-solving, positive behavior support, and specialized assistance to individuals with co-occurring intellectual disabilities and mental health needs. This role delivers clinical consultation and support for individuals served by DDA who may experience behavioral health instability or are at risk of residential disruption or institutionalization. Core responsibilities include conducting functional assessments, developing and consultation regarding positive behavior support principles and strategies, and designing individualized interventions for those with complex presentations.
Working within a multidisciplinary regional team, the Psychology Associate offers consultation, training, and technical assistance to individuals, their families and caregivers, DDA staff, and community providers. The position strengthens systemwide capacity to support individuals with complex behavioral health challenges across settings such as within an individual’s own home, community and state hospital facilities, DDA habilitation centers, evaluation and treatment centers, and jails. The role reports to the Region 3 Clinical Team Manager and collaborates closely with Regional Clinical Team members, Field Services, and DDA leadership.
Note: This position within Region 3 will primarily serve the southern counties surrounding and within Clark County.
Some of What You'll Do:
Who should apply:
Professionals with a master's or doctoral degree in psychology, social work, mental health counseling, school psychology or marriage and family therapy
from an accredited school.
Within 30 days of hire, a certification as an Agency Affiliated Counselor in the State of Washington must be obtained or an active WA State license as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor.
Interested? Apply today!
The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.
Questions? Email Vincent Hamilton at vincent.hamilton@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number 05723.
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
Washington State Department of Social & Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
DSHS Speech Language Pathologist description image
E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
With its great natural beauty, Clark County, Washington, always has attracted people and settlements. Framed by the scenic Cascade Range to the east and the majestic Columbia River to the south and west, the area is a picturesque place to work, play and live.
Named for Captain William Clark of Lewis and Clark Expedition frame, our county is one of the fastest growing regions in Washington state and the Portland, Oregon metropolitan area. Today, more than 440,000 people call Clark County home.
Clark County government is one of the county's largest employers, providing a wide range of challenging positions for about 1,570 people. You can learn about current job openings, the application process, job descriptions, pay schedule and employee benefits on the Clark County Human Resources website at https://www.clark.wa.gov/human-resources.
The mission of Clark County government is to enhance the quality of life in our diverse community by providing services with integrity, openness and accountability.
