Behavioral Health Specialist - Qualified Mental Health Professional; QMHP

Overview

Position Title: Behavioral Health Specialist 2 - Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP)

Initial Posting Date: 01/21/2026

Final date to receive applications: /

Agency: Oregon Youth Authority

Salary Range: $6,420.00 - $8,976.00

Position Type: Employee

Location: Grants Pass – Rogue Valley Youth Correctional Facility

Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) is looking for a full-time QMHP dedicated to providing comprehensive mental and behavioral health services to youth at Rogue Valley Youth Correctional Facility. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including contracted psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), or psychologists, to create a supportive treatment environment within the assigned living unit. Your mission is to cultivate a positive and dynamic atmosphere that encourages youth to take responsibility, develop healthy habits, lead productive lives, and engage in socially acceptable behavior.

Working alongside the Living Unit Manager (LUM) and Case Coordinator (CC), you will offer strong leadership and implement evidence-based interventions within a group living setting.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Applicants from all backgrounds are welcome, as diversity enriches our team and expertise.

• Provide comprehensive mental and behavioral health services to youth in a group living setting.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team (psychiatrists, PMHNPs, psychologists) to develop and implement treatment plans.
• Offer leadership in delivering evidence-based interventions within the living unit.
• Support a positive living environment and promote accountability and healthy behaviors among youth.

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree as specified in the job posting and licensure/certification by the State of Oregon, plus related experience as required (see note below).
• Specific licensure/certification as a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) or eligibility at time of application as described in the posting.

• Driver's license required. Driving is an essential function; a valid license and acceptable driving record are required. Pre-employment driving records checks will be conducted.
• Eligible for certification as QMHP at the time of application.

To be qualified as a QMHP you must meet one of the following through education and experience demonstrating the competencies described in the posting: graduate degree in psychology; or bachelor’s degree in nursing with Oregon licensure; or graduate degree in social work; or graduate degree in a behavioral science field; or graduate degree in recreational, art, or music therapy; or bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy with Oregon licensure.

Education and experience must demonstrate the ability to identify precipitating events, gather histories, assess relationships, conduct DSM-based assessments, and provide therapy within the scope of practice.

Note:

You do not need to have all listed qualities to be eligible. Desired attributes include licensure in the discipline, strong clinical skills with adolescents/young adults, experience with gang affiliation, anger management, fire setting, or violent offending, substance use treatment experience, and strong written/oral communication skills. Ability to provide clinical work independently is valued.

• Complete the application or submit a completed resume.
• Complete the questionnaire.
• Respond to any public records request associated with your submission when prompted.
• Eligible veterans and Oregon National Guard service members meeting qualifications may receive candidate preference. See Veterans Resources for more information.
• Do not attach DD214/DD215 at submission; documents may be requested later in the process.

• All OYA locations are tobacco-free.
• Work is conducted in a group living milieu with potential exposure to hostile or assaultive behavior; you may be required to enforce rules and restrain youth during crises.
• Potential for hostage situations. May be recalled during emergencies.…