The Children's Village·Dobbs Ferry, New York
The NEST Social Worker provides direct clinical services and psychosocial assessments for youth in a 90-day diagnostic program. They collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and families to develop individualized treatment plans and ensure regulatory compliance.
The NEST Social Worker, under close supervision, provides direct clinical services to youth placed in a 90 day, OCFS licensed Diagnostic Program serving males and females ages 12 to 18.
The NEST Social Worker plays a central role in the diagnostic process by conducting comprehensive psychosocial assessments and treatment plans, participating in multidisciplinary evaluations, and contributing to the development of individualized diagnostic summaries and recommendations.
The position involves ongoing clinical engagement with youth, collaboration with families and external systems, and coordination with internal treatment team members to assess emotional, behavioral, educational, and social functioning and provide clinical input into the milieu to ensure the most appropriate care for each child.
The NEST Social Worker supports youth stabilization during the diagnostic period while ensuring all services and documentation comply with OCFS regulations, agency policies, and best clinical practices.
The therapist shows dedication and willingness to work alongside the Integrated Treatment Model (ITM) team, supporting and carrying out the functions of the model to best serve the population.
They are expected to have a nonjudgmental approach that focuses on skill building and basic principles of behavior (reinforcement, extinction, blocking and shaping).
They are required to function as part of a team, committing to modeling pro social behavior and building positive relationships with all residents.
This role requires strong clinical judgment, clear written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to work effectively within a structured, time limited diagnostic framework.
The Children’s Village does not discriminate against any employee, prospective employee or contractor because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, creed, age, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, marital status, veteran status, genetic predisposition, domestic violence victim status, criminal conviction history or any other protected classification under federal, state or local law.
Candidates must hold a Master's degree in a Mental Health field and a valid license (LMSW, LCSW, LMHC, or LMFT). At least one year of relevant job or internship experience and a valid driver's license are required.
Market context
In New York, NEST Social Worker I roles are typically sought in settings serving students with mental health and family-support needs, so applicants with graduate training and licensure are often competitive. This role stands out for requiring a master’s degree in a mental health field, a valid LMSW, LCSW, LMHC, or LMFT, plus at least one year of relevant experience and a driver’s license. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your license status and prepare examples of school- or community-based casework before applying.