The Eligibility Psychologist provides clinical oversight and makes final eligibility recommendations for individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder. Responsibilities include conducting diagnostic assessments, reviewing historical records, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to determine service eligibility.
Requirements summary
Candidates must hold a Doctorate in Psychology from an APA-accredited school and be a licensed Psychologist in Massachusetts. A minimum of three years of professional experience is required, including at least one year of supervision over psychologists-in-training or assistants.
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is looking for a caring, compassionate, and dynamic individual who wants a rewarding career making a difference in the lives of those individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder.
DDS is seeking a motivated, self-directed, and experienced person for the role of Eligibility Psychologist for the Southeast Regional Office located in Middleboro, MA.
The position is located in the Southeast Regional Operations unit in Middleboro.
Our ideal candidate will be familiar with the Department of Developmental Services eligibility regulations, Intellectual Disability as defined by the American Academy of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Must be highly organized and able to adhere to timelines in writing eligibility determination summary reports in a high-volume environment.
Our ideal candidate will also be experienced in providing diagnostic assessment and treatment recommendations for individual with ID/DD.
Duties and Responsibilities
Provides formal training and clinical oversight to Eligibility Team Generalists and Supervisor on the use and interpretation of standardized Adaptive Behavior Scales and instruments.
Reviews all historical records and reports, including summaries prepared by Eligibility Generalists, to determine the need for new assessments of intellectual and adaptive behavior functioning.
Participates in and/or chairs case review meetings where data related to eligibility is reviewed by all members of the Regional Eligibility Team and facilitates discussion of eligibility status of applicant.
Makes ultimate eligibility recommendation and participates in all appeals of eligibility determinations in conjunction with designated Regional Manager.
Maintains knowledge of professional developments in the fields of psychological assessment, diagnosis of developmental disabilities and related subjects.
Write necessary reports and performs analyses of patterns and trends regarding eligibility applications and determinations as directed.
Works collaboratively with Regional Nursing Home Specialist on determination of eligibility for Nursing Facility candidates and performs related duties as required.
Participant on the Regional Peer Review Team.
Benefits
Comprehensive Benefits
Network with community partners/ resources, collaborate with DDS providers and staff, and participate in interagency projects/ meetings as requested.
Provide training on various clinical topics to DDS staff in the SE Region as requested.
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge and expertise in the administration and interpretation of standardized measures of intelligence and adaptive behavior
Demonstrated knowledge of the interpretation and analysis of psychological assessment and testing results.
Experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Experience in providing diagnostic assessment/ evaluations and making treatment recommendations.
Experience and knowledge in forensic assessment and treatment for individuals with ID/DD.
Thoroughness, independence, and excellent written and oral communication skills.
Record of working in multidisciplinary teams.
Proficient usage of Microsoft Office products including Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams.
Familiar with Meditech electronic client record system.
Use of various video conferencing platforms. Please Note: Schedule: This is a Full-time, 40 hour a week position on the day shift. About the Department of Developmental Services: The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B+ operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government. For more information about our agency and programs visit: www.mass.gov/dds Pre-Hire Process: Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Record Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website. · Education, licensure, and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. Recommended candidates must successfully complete pre-employment screening which includes: · Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) Abuse Registry Search: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dppc-abuser-registry · Criminal background check (CORI) by regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori · National Background Checks, Chapter 234 of the Acts of 2014, conduct fingerprint-based check. https://www.mass.gov/lists/dds-fingerprint-background-checks ADA Reasonable Accommodation: If you require a reasonable accommodation with the application/interview process, please contact us at: EOHHS Candidate ADA Requests For technical help with MassCareers, including logging into your profile and/or resetting your password, please call the Employee Service Center at 617-979-8500 for assistance. For questions regarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at 1-800-510-4122 Ext. #4. ALL EMPLOYEES ARE PAID ON A BI-WEEKLY BASIS AND MUST HAVE DIRECT DEPOSIT.
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
Minimum Entrance Requirements
Applicants must have a Doctorate in Psychology from school accredited by the American Psychological Association. Applicants must also have at least three years of years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience as a Licensed Psychologist in the application of psychological principles and techniques in a recognized agency providing psychological services or treatment, of which (B) at least one year must have included supervision over Post-doctoral Psychologists-in-training and/or Psychological Assistants.
Special Requirements
Current and valid registration as a Psychologist by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Psychology. Based on assignment, must meet the eligibility requirements for Designated Forensic Psychologist in 104 CMR 33.04(3)(b). Based on assignment, travel may be required. Those employees who elect to use a motor vehicle for travel must have a current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator's license or the equivalent from another state. Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate’s years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range. Comprehensive Benefits When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future. Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards! An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100%25 of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
