Senior Psychologist - Metro Regional Office

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is seeking a full-time experienced psychologist to join our Metro Regional Office. The Senior Psychologist 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 Senior 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 Senior Psychologist may be asked to participate in inter-agency collaborative efforts and perform other related work as required.

Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive)

• Provides direction and guidance regarding the adequacy and relevance of clinical information gathered during the eligibility application process.
• Provides clinical oversight on the use and interpretation of standardized Adaptive Behavior Scales and instruments, and offers recommendations regarding the need for additional/new psychological testing and adaptive skills assessments.
• Reviews relevant historical records and reports, recent assessments of intellectual and adaptive behavior functioning, and documents prepared by Eligibility Specialists to determine eligibility for DDS services.
• Participates in conferences and hearings to explain eligibility findings.
• Works with Central Office leadership and with RET (Regional Eligibility Team) Psychologists on an on-going basis to refine clinical practices related to eligibility determination.
• Provides clinical consultation in the implementation of Chapter 5 regulations (Positive Behavior Support, Peer Review), and on problematic cases being followed by Central Office Risk Management, participating as needed in statewide Peer Review processes for intensive positive behavior support plans.
• Performs personnel functions such as recruiting student interns, interviewing job applicants for employment, and recommending applicants for vacant positions to ensure the highest quality psychological services.
• Participates on committees, training and supervision as requested.
• Exercises discretion in handling confidential information, and always conducts themselves in a professional manner.

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.
• Knowledge of the provision of trauma-informed care to a diverse population with sensitivity to issues of culture and psychosocial context.
• Be well versed in the administration and interpretation of psychological tests, motivational interviewing, autism experience across the lifespan, trauma-informed care.
• Ability to prioritize and respond to multiple demands and manage time efficiently.
• Ability to conducts self in a professional manner and represents the department and its mission accurately.
• 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 deal 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. 

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