Intake and Eligibility Psychologist

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.
• Demonstrate 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.
• Develops agenda and chairs regular regional PBS clinical meetings for DDS and DDS adjunct staff.

• Performs related duties as required

   

Required Qualifications

• Knowledge about Positive Behavior Supports and current treatment strategies for individuals with ID and/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.
• Demonstrated thoroughness, independence, and excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to seek guidance and support, take direction from supervisors and clinical consultants when needed.

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 resources available to individuals with developmental disabilities and ASD only.
• Knowledge of the laws, rules, regulations, polices, procedures, specifications, standards, and guidelines governing assigned duties.
• Proficient usage of Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Based on assignment, travel may be required. Those employees who elect to use a motor vehicle for travel must have a current and valid Massachusetts Class D motor Vehicle Operator’s license or the equivalent from another state. 

Please Note: This is Full-time, 40 hour position. 

                       Shift: 8:30am - 5:00pm 

                       Days Off: Saturday and Sunday 

                       Flexibility required to meet the needs of the Region.

About the Department of Developmental Services

The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B+ operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.

For more information about our agency and programs visit: www.mass.gov/dds

Pre-Hire Process:

Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Record Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.

• Education, licensure, and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines.

Recommended candidates must successfully complete pre-employment screening which includes:

• Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) Abuse Registry Search:   https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dppc-abuser-registry
• Criminal background check (CORI) by regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services.   http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori 

• National Background Checks, Chapter 234 of the Acts of 2014, conduct fingerprint-based check.  https://www.mass.gov/lists/dds-fingerprint-background-checks

   

ADA Reasonable Accommodation:

If you require a reasonable accommodation with the application/interview process, please contact us at: EOHHS Candidate ADA Requests

For help logging into/resetting your MassCareers profile, please call the Employment Service Center at 617-979-8500. 

For questions regarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at 1-800- 510-4122 Ext. #4.

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

Minimum Entrance Requirements: 

Applicants must have a Doctorate in Psychology from school accredited by the American Psychological Association.

Applicants must also have at least three  years of years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience as a Licensed Psychologist in the application of psychological principles and techniques in a recognized agency providing psychological services or treatment, of which (B) at least one year must have included supervision over Post-doctoral Psychologists-in-training and/or Psychological Assistants.  

Special Requirements:

Current and valid registration as a Psychologist by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Psychology. 

Based on assignment, must meet the eligibility requirements for Designated Forensic Psychologist in 104 CMR 33.04(3)(b). 

Based on assignment, travel may be required.  Those employees who elect to use a motor vehicle for travel must have a current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator's license or the equivalent from another state.

Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate’s years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.  Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.  Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.