DSHS ESH Psychologist

Eastern State Hospital, a fully accredited psychiatric inpatient, state-owned facility in Medical Lake, WA, is seeking Psychologists to collaborate with clinical teams and courts.

Eligible for a 5% premium pay if working on-site at least three days a week.

• Provide individual and group psychotherapy to support patients’ treatment goals, empower patients, instill hope, and support self-discovery and independence
• Provide consultation to multidisciplinary treatment teams
• Complete psychological assessments and supporting clinical documentation
• Provide court-required documentation and expert testimony as needed

• Civil and Forensic Hybrid Ward:
  Provide full psychological services—including individual and group therapy, assessment, behavior management, and consultation—for patients committed on a long-term basis under Washington’s Involuntary Treatment Act. Assist the treatment team in risk assessment, provide information to the Risk Review Board, and consult with courts regarding community access suitability.
• Discharge Consultation and Involuntary Treatment Act Evaluator:
  Conduct structured risk assessments with empirically validated tools for patients nearing discharge to determine ongoing risk. Evaluate patients after findings of incompetency to stand trial to determine eligibility for continued involuntary treatment under the Involuntary Treatment Act.

• A Doctor of Psychology (Ph.D./Psy.D.) in clinical or forensic psychology from an accredited university
• Licensed or eligible to obtain a Washington license to practice psychology by hire date
• Applicants with a completed Ph.D./Psy.
  
  D. pursuing licensure are welcome
• Experience with inpatient civil and forensic populations and/or severe behavioral health issues

This position is eligible for a 12‑month In‑Training period for doctoral candidates who are not yet fully licensed. The successful applicant will have up to 12 months to become licensed and meet the in‑training objectives.

• Focus on evidence‑based care without production pressures
• Clinical autonomy and leadership support for innovative, person‑centered practice
• Competitive compensation package with strong family benefits, generous retirement plan, and additional incentives
• State‑funded support staff and covered operating expenses
• Work‑life balance with Monday–Friday schedule and no on‑call duties
• Potential for alternative or hybrid work schedules after the initial 6‑month probationary period

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or belief, political affiliation, military status, veteran status, disability, use of a trained service animal, or genetic information.

Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this announcement may contact the recruiter at .

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