Psychologist - Corrections - Wasco

Position: Psychologist
Location: Correctional Facility, Wasco, California
Pay Rate: $143.08 to $145.08 per hour
Schedule: Full-time contract for 6 to 9 months with the possibility of extension

Requirements

• At least 12 months of direct patient care experience within the last 3 years in a public or private institution
• Clinical competencies must be current
• Valid government-issued photo  (Drivers License or Passport)
• Active Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association
• Valid California Psychologist license (hard copy required)

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Weekly direct deposit payroll
• 40 hours of paid sick time
• Contract extension bonus
• Pre-employment screening (physical exam, drug testing, mask fit, background check) covered at no cost
• Opportunity to transition into a permanent state position with full benefits if available

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver psychological services under the supervision of the Senior Psychologist or Chief of Mental Health
• Maintain order and supervise patient-inmates to ensure safety and security
• Serve as clinician-of-the-day as needed for emergency cases during scheduled workdays
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary staff to foster professional working relationships
• Conduct comprehensive initial evaluations addressing psychological, criminal, and substance use history
• Provide individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, and in-person interviews
• Conduct evaluations at cell fronts when needed, with potential for stair climbing and long walking distances
• Identify and assess psychiatric symptoms, make diagnoses, and develop individualized treatment plans
• Administer and interpret psychological assessments in alignment with clinical standards
• Prepare detailed clinical reports on diagnosis and prognosis
• Document care and interactions, including Interdisciplinary Treatment Team (IOTT) meetings
• Track progress using SOAPE-formatted clinical notes
• Perform mental status exams during in-person evaluations
• Review prior mental health records and legal documentation to support diagnosis and treatment planning
• Coordinate with community resources to establish aftercare support
• Educate inmates on mental health issues and assist with applications for programs like SSI
• Analyze data from audits related to mental health compliance
• Relay appointment and clinical documentation to administrative staff for data tracking
• Communicate with relatives or caregivers only after receiving signed consent
• Build therapeutic relationships with inmates and approved contacts to enhance treatment outcomes
• Represent the department at mental health-related meetings and forums
• Contribute to the development and implementation of new rehabilitation and mental health programs