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VD
Virginia Department of Corrections
Mental Health Clinician
Career Insights for Mental / Behavioral Health Counselor
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What they do
A Mental or Behavioral Health Counselor works with patients to treat mental health problems. Assesses patients and assists with diagnosis, counseling and crisis intervention. Consults with nurses, doctors and psychiatrists. May work with specific populations, such as youth, senior citizens or substance abusers, in group settings, facilities or hospitals.
$34,411 / year median in Virginia
+13% projected growth
Job Description
$5,000 Sign on Bonus or $10,000 Student Loan Repayment may be available for eligible new hires! Overview As a Mental Health Clinician with the Department of Corrections (DOC), you will join a workplace designed to support both your professional growth and personal wellbeing. DOC offers a strongly supportive environment , collaborative teamwork , professional autonomy , and competitive compensation . Mental Health Clinicians (MHCs) provide meaningful and impactful mental health services to individuals in custody, including crisis intervention, screening and assessment, psychological report writing, psychoeducational services, and individual and group therapy. MHCs play a key part in treatment planning, release planning, and ongoing monitoring of inmates requiring mental health support across intake, general population, and Restorative Housing. As you MHC, you work will directly influence the quality of mental health care within the facility by helping to develop, implement, and evaluate mental health programs and policies, collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams, and serve as a consultant to Administration, Security, Treatment, and Community Corrections staff. Clinicians also provide in‑service training and may participate in specialized units or programs depending on facility needs. Throughout your work, you'll have the autonomy to apply your clinical judgment while being supported by a strong network of peers and supervisors. You will be part of a culture that values open communication, shared decision-making, and meaningful contributions. Combined with DOC's competitive salary, sign‑on incentives, and comprehensive benefits, this role provides a uniquely rewarding professional environment where your skills and mission-driven work truly matter. Minimum Qualifications Master's degree or higher in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related mental health field from an accredited institution Training and experience in the treatment of mental disorders Demonstrated ability to develop intervention and treatment plans Demonstrated ability to provide individual and group counseling/therapy Considerable working knowledge of psychopathology, diagnostic nomenclature, psychological theory and ethical practices Demonstrated ability to provide training Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing