Jewish Family Service·Buffalo, New York
The Mental Health Therapist provides outpatient psychiatric treatment services to individuals with various psychiatric disorders. Responsibilities include conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and maintaining documentation of client interactions.
For more than 150 years, Jewish Family Services of Western New York has been committed to providing high quality services to all in need in the interest of helping to "repair the world." Our services are guided by the essential connection between mental well-being, physical wellness, and positive self-worth. Our reputation is the result of our exceptional staff. In addition to offering competitive compensation and truly exceptional benefits, we are committed to providing a supportive work environment in which all employees are able to contribute their best.
We are ethical, kind, and admirable. We assume good intent and act with integrity. We are thoughtful and deliberative in how we support our clients, each other, and the community. “Choose generosity over judgment—every time”
We create spaces and programs that respect clients’ individuality and opens access. We strive to meet the individual where they’re at and give them the tools to be successful
We work with tenacity to identify problems, seek out solutions, and get things done. Even small steps forward are acts of resilience.
This position provides a variety of outpatient psychiatric treatment services to persons with a broad range of psychiatric disorders.
Responsibilities: & DUTIES
A representative summary of tasks to be performed is provided below. The employee may be asked to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically stated in this description. The duties and responsibilities of the position are to be carried out in a manner that is consistent with the mission, values, and operating principles of Jewish Family Services.
Provide individual, couple, marital and family psychotherapy according to the needs of the client.
Develop a complete psychosocial assessment and provide a DSM-V/ICD 10 diagnosis for each client.
Develop a comprehensive treatment plan for each client and revise the treatment plan at periodic intervals as required by NYS Office of Mental Health regulations.
Maintain written documentation of all client contacts or consultations, including a progress note for each session.
Complete required reporting forms.
Satisfy departmental productivity standards.
Make client referrals to Agency psychiatrists/PNP and coordinate and monitor treatment recommended by the psychiatrists/PNP.
Collaborate with clients’ existing supports, both personal and professional, while providing referral and linkage to additional community resources as needed.
Facilitate informational and/or educational workshops as requested by community organizations.
Conduct client intake interviews for diagnostic and evaluative purposes.
Provide clinical supervision, if requested.
Provide supervision for graduate student interns, if requested.
Submit necessary documentation for third party insurance reimbursement, where qualified.
Participate in Agency/departmental staff meetings and professional development programs.
Participate in work groups and/or task groups.
Provide coverage for other staff members, as needed.
Communication Intelligence - Listens to others, able to communicate issues clearly and credibly with widely varied audiences and overcome resistance; fosters open communication and manages emotion in positive ways.
Client Focus - Understands and meets customer needs, whether internal or external, providing a high level of service and cooperation courteousness & sensitivity)
Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Teamwork
Relates well to all kinds of people regardless of level inside or outside of the organization. Uses diplomacy and tact when dealing with and interacting with others. Diffuses tension. Fosters collegial and cooperative attitudes. Works effectively to achieve common goals.
Working conditions
A valid NYS driver’s license, access to reliable transportation, and sufficient insurance (100/300K) may be required if work involves travel to client homes.
Must meet screening requirements, which include a Background check and State Exclusion List registry clearance.
Physical requirements
Light physical activities and effort required working in an office environment.
Visual acuity sufficient to maintain system of files and reports.
Auditory acuity sufficient to communicate with staff and others by phone and in person.
Mobility sufficient to conduct regular duties within a normal office environment and community.
Compensation & benefits
Competitive salary of $55,000 - $58,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Health, Dental, and Vision insurance.
Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO).
401k retirement plan with agency contribution of 4%.
13+ observed holidays annually.
Early close on Fridays.
This is a hybrid position requiring the therapist to provide services both in an office setting and on-site at assigned JFSWNY satellite locations including various Buffalo Public School sites. Availability must include Tuesday evening hours until 8pm with the possibility of an additional evening if needed.
Candidates must have a Master's Degree in Social Work or Mental Health Counseling and appropriate NYS certification. Strong communication skills and the ability to work with diverse populations are essential.
Market context
In New York, mental health therapist roles are typically in steady demand across schools, clinics, and community settings, especially for candidates with a Master’s in Social Work or Mental Health Counseling and NYS certification. Competition often centers on licensure fit, communication skills, and experience working with diverse populations. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your certification status and tailor your application to the setting you know best.
