DSHS WSH Forensic Psychologist

ABOUT THE ROLE This position is with the Department of Social and Health Services at Western State Hospital's Gage Center of Forensic Services in Lakewood, WA. The role involves working as a Psychologist in forensic programs under RCW 10.77, specifically Competency Restoration and Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity. The psychologist will work with severely behaviorally ill patients using a trauma-informed care approach, acting as a team lead and consultant within a multidisciplinary team. In-training positions are also available. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Therapeutically engage with patients. - Consult with the team and stakeholders regarding patient care, practices, and procedures. - Support clinical staff by providing psychoeducation and modeling leadership. - Complete assessments of violence and suicidal risk. - Implement evidence-based treatment practices. - Conduct psychological testing. - Provide court testimony where applicable. - Complete required documentation according to professional, hospital, and CMS standards. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Doctoral degree in Psychology from an accredited school or department of psychology. - Preferably two years of doctoral experience working in an inpatient or forensic setting with a severely behaviorally ill population. - Formal training in evidence-based treatment modalities or forensic and psychological testing is preferred. - For in-training positions, candidates must be approved to take the EPPP in WA state or have passed the EPPP and applied for licensure in WA state. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must disclose any relationship (relative, household member, close friend, romantic partner) within the potential supervisory chain of command to comply with nepotism policies. - Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. - Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the vehicle. - Must bring an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to the work. SELECTION PROCESS - A background check including criminal record history may be conducted prior to a new hire. - Information from the background check will be considered in determining suitability and competence. - This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. HOW TO APPLY - Submit a completed application including a Resume or CV. - Include a Letter of interest. - Provide three professional references with current contact information. - For questions, contact Jourdan.Kovacs@dshs.wa.gov. - For accommodation requests, contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810 or use Washington Relay Service at 7-1-1. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Pierce County - Lakewood, WA (Western State Hospital, Fort Steilacoom Campus) - Job Type: Full Time - Permanent - Job Number: 2026-00083 - Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services - Division: BHHA - Opening Date: 08/12/2026 - Closing Date: 8/26/2026 11:59 PM Pacific - Employer: State of Washington - Additional Perks: Pierce County employees are eligible for an Orca Card. Free continuing education units are available.