Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) - School-Based Services

Position Overview

Optimum Mind & Behavioral Counseling Services is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) to join our team in a full-time remote position that focuses on school-based services. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in providing mental health support, fostering students' well-being, and addressing significant emotional and psychological challenges within the school environment.

About the Organization

At Optimum Mind & Behavioral Counseling Services, our mission is to promote healthier communities by delivering excellent, patient-centered healthcare services to medically underserved areas, regardless of clients' financial status. We pride ourselves on thinking globally while acting locally, aiming to set a standard for other health centers to emulate. Our values of inclusivity, collaboration, and commitment are integral to the services we provide.

Work Environment

This position offers the flexibility of remote work while serving primarily within the school setting. By collaborating with educators, school staff, and families, our LCSWs contribute significantly to creating a supportive environment where young minds can thrive. You will engage with students in a variety of settings, focusing on their unique needs and backgrounds to foster empowerment and healing.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish trusted relationships with clients, ensuring a supportive and therapeutic environment that encourages openness and healing.
• Utilize evidence-based and culturally-sensitive approaches to conduct brief assessments and screenings to identify the specific needs of students.
• Develop personalized care plans that integrate relevant services and ensure collaboration among families, school personnel, and other providers.
• Provide a range of therapeutic services, including individual, group, and family therapy, aimed at addressing symptoms of major mental illness and emotional disorders.
• Assist with crisis intervention, utilizing de-escalation techniques to support students in distress and ensure their safety and well-being.
• Monitor progress through regular case management, including treatment evaluations and documentation to assist in the effective delivery of care.
• Participate actively as a team member, contributing to agency committees focused on enhancing service delivery and optimizing patient outcomes.
• Engage in ongoing professional development activities to maintain up-to-date knowledge of best practices in social work and mental health care.
• Provide on-call support during and after program hours, as assigned, to respond to urgent situations as they arise.

Patient Population / Client Focus

This role specifically targets students who face significant challenges related to mental health, including anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and other emotional disturbances. The ideal candidate will exhibit cultural competence, demonstrating an ability to effectively engage with a diverse population that may include students from various socioeconomic backgrounds and belief systems.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW) is required, with a preference for candidates holding a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) and active licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).
• A minimum of 2 years of direct experience in social work, ideally within a school or community mental health setting.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills, with an ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Preferred Experience

• Experience working with youth in a school-based setting and understanding of educational systems is highly advantageous.
• Familiarity with integrated care models and multi-disciplinary teams will enhance your effectiveness in this role.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care practices will be beneficial when addressing the needs of diverse student populations.

Compensation and Benefits

The annual salary for this position ranges from USD 70,000 to 85,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition, we offer comprehensive benefits including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities to foster your career growth.

Career Growth Opportunities

At Optimum Mind & Behavioral Counseling Services, we are committed to the ongoing professional development of our staff. Opportunities for advancement within the organization are abundant. You will have access to further training in specialty areas of mental health and the potential to take on leadership roles, contributing to innovations in our service delivery.

Why Join Our Team

By joining our team, you will be part of a mission-driven organization that values compassionate care and community involvement. You will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and their families, all while working in a supportive and collaborative environment focused on continuous improvement and teamwork.

Application Information

If you are a passionate, skilled Licensed Clinical Social Worker ready to make a difference in the lives of students, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are a fit for this role. We look forward to the possibility of welcoming you to the Optimum Mind team!