Licensed Child and Family Mental Health Therapist

To successfully perform this job, an individual must believe in and act in accordance with the Agency’s mission/vision statements, adopted theoretical frameworks, and philosophy, and adequately carry out each essential duty. The requirements below outline the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to assist individuals with disabilities in performing the essential functions. In accordance with our “team” philosophy, the person in this position may occasionally be required to perform or assist with tasks beyond the duties listed in this job description.

Direct Services:

• Conduct client interviews and comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments to gather information on the child’s and family’s histories (e.g., family, social, medical, trauma, substance use, risk factors, and mental health treatment).
• Conduct developmental and mental health screenings (e.g., ASQ-3, ACEs, etc.).
• Conduct suicide risk assessments, domestic violence assessments, and other safety assessments.
• Develop urgent crisis care plans to resolve acute mental or emotional problems and help clients cope, which may include referrals to other treatment sources, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, rehabilitation counselor, or another agency.
• Develop individualized treatment plans in collaboration with clients using modalities like play therapy or dyadic (parent-child) therapy to address trauma or emotional issues. Monitor client progress and update treatment goals accordingly.
• Educate caregivers and parents on child development, trauma, behavior management strategies, emotional regulation techniques, and other strategies that support children’s emotional well-being.
• Plan and conduct the client’s therapy program to address presenting problems identified through the assessment process, considering the client’streatment goal and the length and modality of therapy.
• Provide crisis intervention, mental health treatment (i.e., dyadic, individual, couples, family, and/or group therapy, as applicable), and other related mental health care services to clients.
• Utilize evidence-based treatment modalities that are consistent with program goals and that best fit with clients’ age and treatment needs (e.g., motivational interviewing, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, child-parent psychotherapy, etc.).
• Prepare reports, letters, and clinical summaries as needed. Present cases in supervision and integrate supervisory feedback into treatment
• Mentor and help train pre-licensed mental health therapists (if designated).
• Participate in a multi-disciplinary team to review client cases, treatment approaches, clinical issues, client progress, and treatment recommendations.
• Coordinate supportive services by linking clients to community resources as needed to maximize client self-sufficiency and well-being.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation in accordance with agency policies, licensing and regulatory standards, and COA accreditation requirements.
• Evening and weekend work is required as needed.

Interagency and Cross-Departmental Collaboration

• Provide training and support on complex trauma, trauma-informed services, ACEs, positive behavioral support strategies to promote a child’s emotional well-being, and other relevant topics across programs.
• Support integrated care planning across programs (Foster Care, Adoption, Family Preservation, Early Childhood Education, etc.) to create a holistic view of the child/family, share information as needed and appropriate, develop joint service plans as appropriate, ensure access to necessary services, and provide specialized input to improve client outcomes.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and case conferences to coordinate services.
• Partner with the communications team to develop and share impact stories.

Quality and Performance Improvement:

• Manage, maintain, and update client files, complete and update case records, and perform other administrative duties as required.
• Ensure timely, accurate completion of monthly, quarterly, and annual program activity reports, as well as other required documentation.
• Understand and implement regulations, policies/procedures, and relevant contract requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality and compliance with HIPAA, state board regulations, and ethical standards per state board guidelines.
• Support the program/department in reaching annual plans and agency-wide goals.
• Attend and participate in all mandated trainings, work groups, program activities, focus groups, and staff development/training activities to enhance skills and develop professional knowledge.
• Support audits, reporting, and quality improvement efforts.

Community and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Collaborate with the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), Juvenile Probation, Los Angeles County Office of Education, and community-based organizations to support child and family needs.
• Coordinate with community-based organizations and other providers to ensure continuity of care.
• Represent Allies in community stakeholder or partner meetings and forums as needed.
• Maintain effective relationships with public and private organizations, including county departments, advocacy groups, and community-based organizations.