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Job description
WSH Behavioral Health Specialist 4
Join our team as a Behavioral Health Specialist 4 based at Western State Hospital, a state-operated psychiatric hospital run by the Department of Social and Health Services. The hospital provides inpatient psychiatric care for adults who need structured, secure and consistent support. Individuals served may be admitted through civil or forensic processes, with care focused on safety, stabilization and recovery.
As a Behavioral Health Specialist 4, you will supervise Behavioral Health Specialist 3 staff and support the delivery of therapeutic services in line with treatment plans and unit expectations. Responsibilities will include supporting treatment strategies, using trauma-informed and evidence-based approaches, observing patient behavior and guiding staff responses to support safety and progress. The role will also support daily unit operations through coordination of assignments, staffing coverage and collaboration with nursing staff and interdisciplinary treatment teams.
This position will serve under the direction of the Therapies Supervisor within the Habilitative Mental Health (HMH) Center and will seek guidance as needed to address clinical, operational or safety concerns. The role will support psychosocial interventions, document observations that inform care, assist with patient movement or transportation, respond to behavioral crises and maintain clear communication with staff and clinical partners. All work will follow department policies, with confidentiality maintained at all times.
Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary. Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.
Some of what you will do:
Provide daily therapeutic support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and co-occurring mental illness.
Teach and reinforce daily living skills such as coping with stress, emotional regulation, social interaction and routine participation.
Develop, implement and adjust individual treatment strategies focused on safety, growth and positive behavior.
Coordinate and lead therapeutic activities in small group and individual settings.
Support and guide assigned Behavioral Health Specialist 3 staff serving in treatment coordination roles.
Monitor behavior and progress and share clear updates with the treatment and clinical teams.
Participate in treatment team and clinical meetings to support coordinated care.
Complete accurate documentation including observations, progress notes and incident reports.
Assist with patient outings, appointments and structured activities on and off the unit.
Respond to behavioral crises using approved intervention and safety techniques.
Support daily unit operations and adapt to changing priorities as needed.
Who should apply: One year as a Behavioral Health Specialist 3. Or A bachelor's degree preferably involving major study in sociology, psychology or other social science. And Three years of professional counseling or casework experience* to include supervisory and/or leadership experience.
*One year of graduate training in behavioral social sciences may be substituted for equivalent education/relevant experience.
Additional knowledge, skills and abilities we are looking for :
Therapeutic communication: Using clear, calm language to explain expectations, de-escalate situations and support understanding.
Clinical judgment: Knowing when to adapt an approach, seek input or change direction to support safety and progress.
Leadership through action: Providing guidance to staff through example, decision-making and steady presence during difficult moments.
Collaboration: Working effectively with nursing staff, supervisors and treatment teams to support shared goals.
Documentation skills: Recording observations and progress clearly so care decisions are informed and accurate.
Organization and follow-through: Managing multiple responsibilities while keeping treatment plans and daily routines on track.
Crisis response: Remaining composed and effective during behavioral emergencies.
The Department of Social and Health Services' (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency's vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.
Questions? Email DSHS recruiter Vincent Hamilton at and reference job number 08037.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at . Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or .
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Worksite address
lakewood, WA, 98496, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.