DSHS CSTC Behavioral Health Specialist

DSHS CSTC Behavioral Health Specialist 3

We’re looking for an Activities Specialist (Behavioral Health Specialist
3) to join our team at the Child Study and Treatment Center (CSTC). You will actively support the treatment team by implementing scheduled therapeutic activities designed to meet the developmental needs, interests, and abilities of children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral disorders.

As an Activities Specialist, you will:

• Engage in direct care of patients by leading or co‑leading activities as part of treatment both on cottage, off‑cottage and in the community.
• Instruct patients in adapting to the recreational and community environment.
• Maintain statistical information and documentation related to patient care.
• Plan and implement community integration and transition activities, operating state motor vehicles as required.
• Participate in campus‑wide trainings on evidence‑based practices such as DBT, Collaborative Problem Solving, and Trauma‑informed care.
• Consult with the treatment team, youth counselors, and nursing for prescribed treatment services.
• Assist Recreation Therapists and other recreation staff with groups and program facilitation.
• Document activities and patient behavior to inform the treatment team about concerns or progress.
• Participate in focus groups and hospital‑wide committees as assigned.
• Plan and research treatment or individual interventions based on patient needs and assess participation ability.
• Discuss and inform the treatment team of observations regarding treatment needs, behaviors, symptoms, and risks.
• Plan and facilitate special events for the cottages and hospital‑wide, including lifting, carrying heavy objects.
• Shadow and mentor new staff as directed for learning procedures and operations.
• Attend and complete scheduled and required trainings.
• Escort patients to and from groups and activities, both on and off campus.
• Respond to patient emergencies as needed, using verbal de‑escalation and hands‑on techniques as part of the intervention.

• A bachelor’s degree preferably in sociology, psychology, or another social science.
• Two years of professional counseling or casework experience, OR one year as a Behavioral Health Specialist 2, OR equivalent education/relevant experience.
• Safely physically intervene with patients exhibiting high‑risk behaviors using approved techniques, maintaining dignity.
• Obtain a Food Handler’s permit within 14 days of employment.
• Obtain/maintain current CPR/First Aid certifications.
• Obtain/maintain a current Agency‑Affiliated Counselor credential from the Department of Health within 30 days of employment.

Washington State offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical, vision, dental, and basic life insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and staff training. Staff may enroll in a medical flexible spending account and are eligible for the Deferred Compensation Program. Employees are covered by Social Security and Medicare, and may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. Paid holidays, sick leave, vacation, and various other leave types are provided in accordance with state law.

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran status, or any disability. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the recruiter at (360) 725‑5810.