Psychologist IV

The Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is seeking experienced psychologists to join our statewide Intake and Eligibility team.

The Psychologist IV is responsible for evaluating complex psychological, diagnostic, developmental, and adaptive functioning information to support clinical determinations regarding eligibility for Department of Developmental Services (DDS) services. The incumbent applies professional judgment, established clinical standards, applicable regulations, and evidence-based practices to ensure eligibility determinations are accurate, consistent, timely, and appropriately documented.

The Psychologist IV reviews psychological evaluations, diagnostic records, adaptive behavior assessments, educational and medical information, and other relevant clinical documentation; identifies when additional information or clarification is necessary; and participates in consultation on complex cases. The incumbent collaborates with multidisciplinary staff and other professionals and contributes to quality assurance and continuous improvement activities that promote consistent interpretation and application of DDS eligibility criteria and statewide clinical practices.

As a representative of the Department, the Psychologist IV may participate in informal conferences, Fair Hearings, administrative reviews, and other proceedings related to clinical eligibility determinations. The incumbent works collaboratively with DDS staff, clinicians, providers, individuals, families, and other stakeholders to support fair and consistent access to DDS services and performs other related duties as required.

• Conduct comprehensive clinical reviews of psychological, medical, educational, and related records to determine eligibility for DDS services in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws, DDS regulations, policies, and clinical standards.
• Evaluate complex diagnostic information to determine the presence of intellectual disability, developmental disability, autism spectrum disorder, and other qualifying conditions, integrating information from multiple sources to support sound clinical decision-making.
• Prepare clear, concise, and defensible written eligibility determinations, documenting clinical rationale and recommendations in accordance with departmental policies and timelines.
• Provide clinical consultation and technical assistance regarding diagnostic criteria, psychological assessments, adaptive functioning, and DDS eligibility requirements, as requested.
• Participate in statewide psychologist meetings and case consultations to promote consistency and continuous quality improvement.
• Participate in Informal Conferences and Fair Hearings by reviewing case materials, preparing with DDS Legal staff, presenting testimony, explaining eligibility determinations, and responding to questions regarding psychological evaluations and DDS eligibility criteria.
• Maintain accurate electronic case records and complete required documentation within established time frames while ensuring compliance with confidentiality requirements, HIPAA, and applicable state and federal regulations.
• Maintain a current working knowledge of developments in psychology, intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, applicable laws, regulations, policies, and evidence-based practices through continuing education and professional development.
• Participate in staff meetings, committees, training, clinical supervision, and other departmental initiatives as assigned.
• Perform other related duties as required.

• Knowledge of the symptoms, presentation, and diagnostic criteria for a substantiated diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in accordance with the most recent version of the DSM (currently DSM-V-TR).
• Knowledge of standardized tests, assessment and measurement, particularly as it applies to identification of intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
• Knowledge and experience with the development, use, and interpretation of standardized adaptive functioning instruments.
• Knowledge of the provision of trauma-informed care to a diverse population with sensitivity to issues of culture and psychosocial context.
• Ability to prioritize and respond to multiple demands and manage time efficiently.
• Ability to conduct oneself professionally and represent the department and its mission accurately.
• Ability to maintain accurate records…