Within the Department of Social and Health Services, this series is responsible for the care of youth and adolescents in an inpatient psychiatric treatment setting. Positions in this series are responsible for modeling and implementing evidence-based practices, documenting patient behaviors and progress, and managing a caseload of patients.

In a training capacity, assists Psychiatric Youth Counselors in the specialized care and treatment of youth and adolescent patients. Participates in a learning capacity, as a member of a multi-disciplinary team in the implementation of the therapeutic environment. Completes documentation to include observation reports, progress notes, behavioral tracking spreadsheets, incident reports and behavior management reports.

This is an in-training class. Work performed at this level is conducted under close supervision. Incumbents are assigned progressively more responsible duties as they gain experience and complete assigned training activities such as: implementation of behavior management procedures and/or crisis intervention; specific security/safety duties; and current program policies and procedures.

Under the guidance of the Psychiatric Youth Counselor 3 or 4, observes patients for unusual or significant behavior; completes relevant forms, paperwork, and charting;

Receives training in the implementation of behavior management procedures and/or crisis intervention when a patient is violent, suicidal or having behavioral difficulties;

Receives training in specific security/safety duties to maintain comfort for patients in housing and treatment areas; operates electronic communication and security equipment and systems in unit control booth;

Assists in the inspection of patient rooms for cleanliness and comfort; searches rooms and persons for contraband;

Participates in inter-shift and multi-disciplinary team meetings;

Participates in small group activities and individual interventions with a more experienced Psychiatric Youth Counselor;

Receives training in current program policies and procedures;

Performs other work as required.

Knowledge of: objectives of behavioral interventions; personal hygiene and sanitation.

Ability to: work effectively with other staff; keep routine records; provide assistance in carrying out planned instructions and treatment programs; learn skills necessary in caring for patients who have psychiatric diagnosis; observe and learn habits and attitudes of patients; recognize problems which should be referred to supervisor; follow oral and written instructions.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

If the position has duties designated as defined under WAC 246-810-010, the incumbent must possess and maintain a current Registered Agency Affiliated Counselor or higher counseling related credential from the Washington State Department of Health.

Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.

Satisfactory completion of one year of college, preferably with emphasis in one of the social sciences

AND

One year of experience working with individuals in a psychiatric, mental health or health care setting

OR

Equivalent combination of education/relevant experience.

New classification: Psychiatric Youth Counselor 1, class code: 348M, range 49; adopted June 23, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.