Associate Therapist/Psychology Associate , AMFT / APCC

Position OverviewThe 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 ResponsibilitiesMaintain 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

QualificationsRegistered 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 ExperienceExperience 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 EnvironmentThis 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 QualificationsActive 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