Position Overview
The Associate Therapist provides mental health services to youth and families in community based settings including schools, juvenile detention facilities, and outpatient environments. This role supports a whole person care approach by addressing the emotional, psychological, social, and environmental factors that impact client well being. The Associate Therapist maintains an active caseload, provides individual and group therapy, facilitates psychoeducational programming, and completes clinical documentation using SOAP format. The clinician works under the supervision of a licensed professional while developing clinical skills and progressing toward independent licensure.
Key Responsibilities
Maintain an active caseload of youth and families receiving mental health services
Provide individual, family, and group therapy to adolescents and children experiencing emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges
Facilitate therapeutic and psychoeducational groups within school based programs and juvenile detention settings focusing on emotional regulation, decision making, coping skills, self esteem, and behavioral accountability
Conduct psychosocial assessments and collaborate with clients to develop individualized treatment plans with measurable goals
Document all clinical services using SOAP note format, including interventions, client response, and treatment progress
Ensure documentation is completed accurately and within required timeframes in accordance with agency policies, payer requirements, and Board of Behavioral Sciences standards
Provide crisis intervention, risk assessments, and safety planning when necessary
Collaborate with school staff, probation officers, case managers, and interdisciplinary teams to support client progress and continuity of care
Participate in treatment team meetings, case consultations, and program planning discussions
Provide psychoeducation to youth and families regarding mental health, trauma, coping strategies, and communication skills
Maintain ethical and professional standards in accordance with HIPAA, BBS regulations, and organizational policies
Participate in clinical supervision and ongoing training to support professional development and licensure requirements
Qualifications
Registered with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist or Associate Professional Clinical Counselor
Master degree in Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology, or a related behavioral health field from an accredited institution
Knowledge of therapeutic interventions appropriate for youth and adolescent populations
Ability to maintain professional boundaries and manage a structured clinical caseload
Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
Commitment to culturally responsive, trauma informed, and client centered care
Preferred Experience
Experience working with adolescents or at risk youth populations
Experience in school based mental health programs
Experience working in juvenile justice or detention settings
Experience facilitating therapeutic groups and psychoeducational programming
Familiarity with electronic health record systems and behavioral health documentation requirements
Work Environment
This role requires the ability to work across multiple service settings including outpatient offices, schools, and juvenile detention facilities. The Associate Therapist works collaboratively with clinical teams and community partners while maintaining professionalism, ethical standards, and a commitment to client centered care.
Additional Qualifications
Active registration with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences and in good standing
Ability to pass required background checks for working in schools and juvenile detention facilities
Current CPR and First Aid certification or willingness to obtain upon hire
Ability to maintain professional documentation standards including timely completion of SOAP notes and treatment planning
Strong ability to build rapport and engage youth and families from diverse backgrounds
Demonstrated commitment to ethical practice, professional development, and adherence to BBS regulations