License Master Social Worker, G116, Public Defender's Office

The purpose of this position is to assist clients with mental health issues and work closely with individuals who have cases in the court system, providing assistance as directed by the Public Defender.

This job works under general supervision, independently developing work methods and sequences.

• Provides social services as a mental health professional to clients serviced by the Public Defender’s Office.
• Links clients to services in the community, refers them to the appropriate service, and assists clients with obtaining benefits.
• Obtains, reviews, and compiles mitigating information and verifies the information.
• Refers clients to agencies that assist in obtaining employment. Complies with terms of release (both bond and probation); facilitates prompt release from detention after case resolution or posting bond, and assists in finding housing.
• Obtains, reviews, and audits clients’ medical, mental health, school, developmental, and employment records.
• Provides referrals and links to community mental health providers for individuals with mental health and intellectual disability diagnoses.
• Assists clients released from County detention facilities with receiving medications.
• Reviews and assigns requests from attorneys for social workers to assist with client cases.
• Completes intake/biopsychosocial assessment on new clients.
• Utilizes short-term interventions, i.e., crisis intervention and/or cognitive behavioral model for clients at the jail or who have been released.
• Provides clients with coping mechanisms while in jail and out of jail for the purpose of preventing recidivism. Coping mechanisms include but are not limited to anger management techniques and anxiety/stress management techniques.
• Utilizes strength-based and empowerment strategies and interventions for the purpose of maintaining motivation for change and maintaining the belief that change is possible.
• Utilizes a problem-solving process to teach clients skills needed to make changes in their lives.
• Performs related work as assigned.

• Knowledge of mental health principles and practices, child and adult psychopathology, effective interviewing techniques, and family systems.
• Knowledge of Criminal Code and Family Code Statutes, legal precedents, and an understanding of the many issues–legal, social, familial, and cultural involved in the consequences of criminal cases.
• Have a strong assessment and counseling background; individual and group therapy methods and practices.
• Knowledge of office practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of use and care of office equipment.
• Knowledge of use of computer and office software.
• Knowledge of English usage, grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

• Master’s Degree in Sociology, Psychology, or a related discipline.
• Two years of mental health case management or related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Must hold an active Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) designation issued through the Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners.

Occasionally

• Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles, etc.
• Moving oneself in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments, including tight and confined spaces.
• Moving to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
• Adjusting or moving objects up to 20 pounds in all directions.
• Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.
• Driving a County vehicle or a personal vehicle for County business.
• Working in noisy environments.
• Light work that includes carrying objects up to 20 pounds.

Constantly

• Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
• Communicating with others to exchange information.
• Repeating motions that may…