Intake and Eligibility Psychologist

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This range is provided by Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

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Direct message the job poster from Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is seeking a full-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, competency evaluations, 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.
• 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.
• Demonstrates the knowledge that Positive Behavior Supports (PBS) consists of a mix of proactive, preventive strategies and evidence-based interventions that help decrease challenging behavior and maintain a stable environment for all.
• Maintains knowledge of professional developments in the fields of psychological assessment, diagnosis of developmental disabilities, PBS, and related subjects.
• Participates in Statewide Peer Review Committee meetings on a monthly basis. This involves reviewing plans and participating in the written documentation of the committee's response.
• Chairs the Metro Regional Peer Review Committee to review proposed behavior plans and continues to participate in statewide reviews as needed.
• Consults with provider clinicians and DDS staff (e.g., Area Office Clinical Directors, Human Rights Specialists, MRS clinicians) on PBS related topics and clinical issues as needed. Provide feedback on targeted and intensive plans as needed.
• Participates in statewide PBS meetings and activities.
• Shares PBS trainings/updates/guidance documents to clinical/regional/area staff.
• Writes necessary reports and performs analyses of patterns and trends regarding eligibility applications and determinations as directed.
• Demonstrates the knowledge that PBS consists of a mix of proactive, preventive strategies and evidence based interventions that help decrease challenging behavior and maintain a stable environment for all.

Required Qualifications

• Knowledge about Positive Behavior Supports and current treatment strategies for individuals with /or ASD.
• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of policy and procedures pertaining to individuals served by DDS.
• Knowledge of the DDS and generic programs, services, and…