About this opportunity
State of Colorado lists this SOCIAL WORK/COUNSELOR IV-CoT-CMHHIP opportunity in pueblo county, Colorado. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
This posting may be used to fill multiple vacancies.
Department Information
This recruitment is only open to current Colorado Residents Only.
This posting may be used to fill multiple vacancies.
Colorado Mental Health Hospital in Pueblo (CMHHIP)
Social Work/ Counselor IV
As a cornerstone of the Pueblo community for over a century, Colorado Mental Health Hospital in Pueblo (CMHHIP) is a leading employer, provider of quality mental health services, and a community partner. CMHHIP is a 24 hour behavioral health acute care facility that is intended to provide a safe, secure, and therapeutic setting for patients with both psychiatric and medical issues. The services provided include evaluation and treatment for patients who are severely mentally ill, and the goal of this facility is to return patients to their optimal level of functioning and assist them in returning to the community as appropriate.
The purpose of the Continuity of Treatment (CoT) Department at the Colorado Mental Health Hospital in Pueblo (CMHHIP) is to enhance, support, and maintain therapeutic integrity and active treatment programming across all inpatient units. The department delivers evidence-based clinical treatment, psychotherapy, rehabilitative programming, and specialized substance use disorder (SUD) assessment, evaluation, and education.
To facilitate patient stabilization, behavioral rehabilitation, and discharge readiness, CoT strategically manages hospital-wide clinical staff deployment, scheduling, and backfilling to minimize therapeutic group and activity cancellations. Additionally, the department develops and maintains high-volume deployment tracking systems, analyzing call-off data, backfill trends, and group compliance to ensure strict adherence to federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and Joint Commission "Active Treatment" standards. The target patient population includes forensic and civil individuals with severe and persistent mental illness, cognitive impairments, and complex legal statuses (e.g., incompetent-to-proceed, not guilty by reason of insanity, and civil commitments).
Description of Job
You are required to work at your assigned work location during your scheduled work times.
Full-Time, 100% In-Person Position
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm
Work Location: 1600 W. 24th Street, Pueblo, CO 81003
Please note: Work arrangements are subject to change at any time.
About The Position
This position serves as the Clinical Supervisor and programmatic authority for the CoT unit. It provides full supervision and performance management to a multidisciplinary team. The position is responsible for the oversight of clinical liaison processes, ensuring that all clinical recommendations and interdepartmental communications provided by CoT staff to Unit Treatment Teams meet professional standards. While maintaining a caseload of high-acuity psychotherapy groups for modeling, the primary focus is personnel management, quality assurance, and clinical system oversight.
Clinical Supervision and Personnel Management
Functions as the formal supervisor
Responsible for the full cycle of supervision, including hiring, performance planning, and administering corrective/disciplinary actions
Determines staff competencies and authorizes specific unit assignments based on an assessment of staff expertise and current hospital-wide patient acuity
Responsible for ensuring assigned subordinates provide high-quality groups/activities within their scope of practice to the CMHHIP patients
Collaborates with multidisciplinary teams (e.g., social workers, recreational and physical therapists, administrative assistants and nursing) to obtain feedback on subordinate job performance and responsibilities
Programmatic Quality Assurance and Auditing
Conducts systematic, data-driven audits of the work unit’s clinical output to ensure compliance with Joint Commission, CMS, and hospital standards
Conducts Chart Audits, In-Person Schedule Audits, and In-Person Group Audits
Analyzes data to identify systemic trends and develops formal "Plans of Action to Prevent Recurrence" (PAPR) to report to the Hospital Quality Council
Group Facilitation and Clinical Modeling
Serves as the primary facilitator for a focused caseload of individual and group therapy sessions
Facilitates high-acuity groups that require a superior level of clinical expertise and licensure, serving as a model for subordinate staff in the application of evidence-based theories and trauma-informed interventions
Will transport patients to and from groups, both on and off campus, at times utilizing a state vehicle
Liaison Oversight and Clinical System Consultation
Provides oversight and validation of the liaison duties performed by subordinate Social Worker/Counselor IIIs
Serves as the clinical authority and mediator for the relationships between the CoT unit and the Unit Treatment Teams
Validates clinical recommendations made to units, resolves high-level interdepartmental conflicts, and ensures that CoT staff are integrated effectively into the hospital's multidisciplinary treatment structure
Professional And Other Duties As Assigned
Participates in orientation, educational workshops, discipline meetings, and training to assure and maintain competency in the provision of their license and treatment services
Provides consultation and training regarding clinical issues on a functional basis with clinical staff and discipline members
Participates in clinical and administrative supervision to enhance, ensure, and confirm skills, knowledge, competency, and understanding of assigned cases and team, discipline, and hospital processes
Participates in various hospital projects or committees to enhance project success by providing expert insight and knowledge of specialized topics
Responsible for the performance of assigned tasks and duties within the scope of practice for this position that do not fall within the realm of duty statements above
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights
Current, Valid Colorado Licensure As a
Licensed Social Worker (LSW) OR
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) OR
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) OR
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC)
And two (2) years of licensed experience based on the work assigned to the position.
Applicants for supervisory positions must have licensure that meets the legal requirements to perform supervisory responsibilities.
Preferred Qualifications
Two plus (2+) years of facilitating psychotherapy/psychoeducation groups
Two plus (2+) years of working in a locked or high-acuity unit
Two plus (2+) years working with a forensic population
Two plus (2+) years of documented supervisory experience
Conditions Of Employment
Full background check and reference check required
This position requires State of Colorado residency at the time of application (unless otherwise identified in the posting), and residency within the state throughout the duration of employment in this position
Motor Vehicle Check , if the employee will drive a state-owned vehicle, either in an on-going capacity while performing their normal day-to-day job duties OR on occasion for training/meetings/client visits/etc
Must possess a valid, non-restricted Colorado Driver’s License or an non-restricted U.S. Driver’s License for positions within 30 miles of the CO state border
Out-of-State Driver’s License holders must obtain a valid, non-restricted Colorado Driver’s License within 30 days of employment start date
Other Conditions of Employment specific to Program
Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must:
Disclose that information on the application.
Explain why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify you from the current position.
Provide your employee number from your prior State employment. Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination and failure to provide this information will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with CDHS.
Shall not initiate or engage in sexual, social, personal or financial relationships with patients either during or any time after hospitalization, even if the patient requests or initiates such a relationship. All relationships with current or former patients must be disclosed on your application
Successfully pass all modules of the CMHIP New Employee Orientation core curriculum to include English reading comprehension, relevant competency assessments and written/practical exams in Defensive Tactics
Possess the physical ability to successfully complete hospital-adopted physical interventions (MANDT) and CPR
Lift arms above head and kick as high as own waist
Stabilize another person to accomplish a controlled containment to the floor
Withstand impact on own body using an ASP shield
Rotate body 90 degrees with feet planted for using a defensive tactic
Kneel on one or both knees and stand up again with multiple repetitions
Must be able to see and hear in order to observe, address and respond to potential breaches in safety
Seize, hold, control or subdue violent or assaultive persons and defend oneself or others to prevent injury
Demonstrate body agility, strength of all four limbs and the ability to walk and climb stairs consistently
Work in situations involving assaultive behavior, physical control of another person and/or restraint situations
Ability to read and comprehend the English language; effectively and fluently communicates in English, both verbally and in writing
Work in an environment with fluctuating noise and temperature (hot and cold) which may include working outdoors in inclement weather and/or concrete floor/wall work settings
Willing and able to travel
May be required to work evening or weekend shifts, holidays, voluntary or mandatory overtime in on patient units throughout CMHHIP
2-step TB (tuberculosis) screening
Influenza vaccination
Other vaccinations as required by the State of Colorado
CDHS Selection Process Explanation
Employment history is calculated on a full-time basis (40/hrs per week). Part-time employment is calculated on a prorated basis to determine qualifications. Be sure your application specifically addresses your qualifications, experience, work products, and accomplishments as they relate to the position and minimum requirements.
Preferred Qualifications & Competencies:
Relevant years of state service experience.
Minimum Qualification Screening Process
A Human Resources Analyst will review the work experience/job duties sections of the online job application to determine whether your experience meets the minimum qualifications for the position. You must complete the official State of Colorado online application. Cover letters and resumes WILL NOT be reviewed during the minimum qualifications screening process. You must specifically document your work experience and qualifications in the application form. Do not use "see resume" or "see attached."
You must meet the minimum qualifications to continue in the selection process. Part-time work experience will be prorated.
Comparative Analysis Process – Structured Application Review
After minimum qualification screening, the comparative analysis process will involve reviewing and rating of all the information you submit. The comparative analysis step may also include your results from standardized testing.
Your Work Experience/Job Duties
Document your work experience/job duties to the extent to which you possess the skills, education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications.
If listed, answer all supplemental questions as your answers to these questions will be evaluated during this phase. Provide at least 4-8 sentences for each supplemental question.
Supplemental Questions
Answer the supplemental questions completely and thoughtfully. We will rate your answers based on the content of your response and your writing skills (spelling, grammar, and clarity of your writing).
Appeal Rights
You may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director if your application is eliminated. You will find the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it on the State Personnel Board website.
You or your representative must sign and submit the official appeal form for review.
You can find the official appeal form here.
You must be deliver the official appeal form to the State Personnel Board:
By email ( ), or
Postmarked in US Mail to(1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203, or
Hand delivered (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203), or
Faxed ) within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department’s action.
Contact The State Personnel Board For Assistance
At , or
Refer to the Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, within the Rules webpage.
Supplemental Information
How to apply to the State of Colorado(Youtube Video, Runtime 3:59, Closed Captions Available)
The Assessment Process
About Us & Benefits
If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference, join the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). Our professionals strive to design and deliver high quality human and health services that improve the safety, independence, and well-being of the people of Colorado. Each of us is committed to contributing to a safe and accessible CDHS. In addition to a great location and rewarding and meaningful work, we offer:
Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans
Medical and dental health plans
Employer supplemented Health Savings Account
Paid life insurance
Short- and long-term disability coverage
11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave
State of Colorado Employee BenefitHub Resource Center
Employee Wellness program
Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, training and more
Remote work arrangements for eligible positions
*Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Our Values
We believe in a people-first approach: We prioritize the needs, well-being, and dignity of the individuals, families and communities we serve. We commit to respect, fairness and access in every decision, policy and interaction. We engage client voices and experiences in the development and implementation of the services we provide.
Balance creates quality of life: We want our team to be resilient through a supportive workplace that values flexibility, health and wellness, and employee engagement.
We hold ourselves accountable: We take responsibility through our actions, programs, and results for the state of health and human services in Colorado.
Transparency matters: We are open and honest with employees, our partners, the Coloradans we serve, and the public.
We are ethical: We abide by what is best for those we serve by doing what is right, not what is easy.
Collaboration helps us rise together: We work together with all partners, employees, and clients to achieve the best outcomes for Coloradans.
ADA Accommodations
CDHS is committed to a Colorado for ALL qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment.
This includes completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or performing essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to
EEO Statement
The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer
We are committed to increasing a “Colorado for ALL" of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities. The State of Colorado believes that a “Colorado for ALL" drives our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.
Additional Support For Your Application
Toll Free Applicant Technical Support
If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV technical support at Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application 1) ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and 2) close the document before you attempt to upload (attach) it.
The State of Colorado offers permanent employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, as well as a comprehensive leave program. Please click the following link for detailed information:
Please note that each agency's contact information is different; therefore, we encourage all applicants to view the full, official job announcement which includes contact information and class title. Select the job you wish to view, then click on the "Print" icon.
Supplemental Information
This information is available to me and I have read this information.
I am unable to access the links with this information on the job posting. (If you select this option, please contact the recruiter, whose information is listed on this announcement, so that they can send this information directly to you.)
Legal Name Confirmation
Did you use your full legal name in your application? If not, please update your information before submitting your application.
Yes
No
Former State Employee Information
If you are a current or former State of Colorado employee, please list your employee number (starts with 997…). Your application may be considered incomplete if you do not provide this information. An incomplete application may not move forward in the Selection process. If you are a former or current state employee, please identify what state agency you work(ed) with and how many years of relevant state service you have related to the position you are applying for. (Ensure this is listed on your application under work experience).
Licensure Information
Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Licensed Addictions Counselor (LAC)
Preferred Qualifications Verification
No Preferred Qualifications
2+ years of facilitating psychotherapy/psychoeducation group
2+ years working in a locked or high-acuity unit
2+ years working with a forensic population
2+ years of documented supervisory experience
Current Licensing Status
Are you currently licensed or approved by the CO DORA to provide mental health services, and have you ever been reported to a licensing board? (If yes to the latter, please explain the circumstances and outcome.)
Work Environment Adaptability
This position is in a fast-paced hospital environment where daily schedules frequently change at the last minute to accommodate patient needs and unit coverage. Are you comfortable and willing to work in an environment that requires high daily adaptability, and what techniques do you use to manage change and reprioritize tasks?
Supervisor Experience
Describe your specific experience supervising clinical staff, including completing performance evaluations and administering disciplinary actions in an inpatient or highly regulated hospital setting.
Population Experience
Please provide a brief summary (1-2 paragraphs) of your experience working with highly acute, multifaceted populations (e.g., severe mental illness, legal statuses, developmental disabilities). If you do not have direct forensic experience, briefly explain how your background prepares you for this population.
Clinical Audit Experience
Detail your experience conducting clinical audits to ensure compliance with federal (CMS), Joint Commission, professional, and/or policy-driven "Active Treatment" standards. How have you ensured that clinical documentation generated by yourself, or your subordinates, meets these rigorous standards?
Required Question
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Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.