Mental Health Therapist - Pendleton Cottage

Initial Posting Date: 09/29/2026 Final date to receive applications: 10/08/2026 Agency:
Oregon Health Authority Salary Range: $4,512 - $5,691 Position Type:
Employee

Job Description:

Opportunity Awaits, Apply Today! – Mental Health Therapist 1 Pendleton Cottage, located in Pendleton, Oregon, is currently accepting applications for the position of Mental Health Therapist 1. As a Mental Health Therapist 1, under the supervision of licensed professional staff, you will assist in implementing individualized treatment plans aligned with the Recovery Model within the State-Operated Secure Residential Treatment Facility. This facility serves high-risk and high-profile individuals currently residing at Pendleton Cottage.

Responsibilities include conducting group and individual therapy sessions, supporting socialization skills development, facilitating the daily program schedule, and ensuring the safety and security of residents and staff. For a full review of the position description, please .

Work Schedule:

Wednesday-Sunday, 2:00pm – 10:30pm Days off:
Monday and Tuesday.

• Two years of experience working with mentally, behaviorally or physically impaired clients.
• OR An associate or a bachelor’s degree in social science (such as social work, human services, psychology, child development, gerontology, health, or health education) may be substituted for 6 months of the required experience.

• Experience in implementing and supporting the principles of the Recovery Model.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to adapt effectively to diverse and dynamic situations involving a wide range of individuals.
• The ability to think quickly and proactively address potential issues before they occur.
• Experience in addressing the needs of residents with persistent and chronic mental health conditions, including individuals diagnosed with Personality Disorders.
• Experience working with forensic populations.
• Experience in leading and instructing groups utilizing the Recovery Model framework.

• Must possess QMHA (Qualified Mental Health Associate) certification or willing to obtain within the first month of employment.
  
  Note:
  
  QMHA certification requires 3 years of education/work experience.
• Must possess CPR and First Aid certifications or willing to obtain within the first month of employment.
• Must possess a valid Oregon driver's license.

• Excellent, low-cost medical, vision, and dental coverage for you and your family.
• Optional benefits like life insurance, disability coverage, deferred compensation, and FSA options for health and childcare.
• Generous paid time off: 11 holidays, 3 personal days, monthly sick leave, and vacation accrual starting at 8 hours/month.
• Potential eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
• Retirement security through Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)/Oregon Public Service Retirement Plan (OPSRP).
• Training and development opportunities to grow your career with the State of Oregon.

This announcement is for one (1), full-time, permanent, SEIU represented, Mental Health Therapist 1, located in Pendleton, Oregon. This is a 100% on-site position. Employment is contingent upon a criminal records check and a driving records check that meets OHA criteria at the time of hire and throughout employment. The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying range. If the successful candidate qualifies for PERS, the salary range will increase by 6.95%.

For more information, see the Classification and Compensation page. The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an…