Behavioral Health Specialist, Social Work​/Counselor III - Platte Valley Youth Services Center

Behavioral Health Specialist, Social Work / Counselor III – Platte Valley Youth Services Center

State of Colorado invites applications for a Behavioral Health Specialist (Counselor III) at the Platte Valley Youth Services Center. This role provides therapeutic services, crisis intervention, and case management to committed and detained youth for treatment and re‑integration. The position requires current Colorado social work licensure, a year of experience with licensure compact, strong evidence‑based practice, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.

• Maintain a caseload and conduct individual, group, and family therapy sessions using evidence‑based treatment theories for adolescents.
• Apply developmental and cultural knowledge to provide person‑centered interventions and behavior change strategies.
• Collaborate with the medical team and psychiatrist on psychotropic medication assessment and continuation.
• Support educational/vocational systems to ensure appropriate academic services for youth.
• Document, assess, and monitor intervention effectiveness and program progression.
• Engage family/caregivers and coordinate community and agency services for youth re‑integration.

• Conduct comprehensive mental health assessment and develop treatment planning in alignment with the Division of Youth Services model.
• Use suicide risk indicators, CBT, social learning theory, and motivational interviewing to address complex youth needs.
• Collaborate with other transition specialists, clients, and multidiscipline teams to implement treatment goals and community review team interventions.

• Lead training in evidence‑based and best‑practice treatment delivery approaches.
• Provide consultation on clinical, therapeutic, and programmatic matters to staff and multidisciplinary team members.
• Maintain professional licensure and attend ongoing education and training to stay current with emerging research.

• Document all therapy, case management, and consultation services in the approved electronic health record using standardized formats.
• Communicate treatment progress, goals, and outcomes with internal and external stakeholders.

• Current Colorado or statewide participation of a Social Work Licensure Compact license: LSW, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, or LAC.
• One year of experience with current licensure from a compact state.
• High school graduate or equivalent (minimum of 21 years of age).

• Prior experience as a State of Colorado employee.

• Full background and reference check required.
• Residency in Colorado required at the time of application and for the duration of employment.
• Must possess a valid, non‑restricted Colorado Driver’s License or a non‑restricted U.S. Driver’s License for positions within 30 miles of the state border.

The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.