SOCIAL WORK/COUNSELOR III- Clinical Work Lead COT

Department Information

This recruitment is only open to current Colorado Residents Only

This posting may be used to fill multiple vacancies full time

Colorado Mental Health Hospital in Pueblo (CMHHIP)

Social Work/ Counselor III

Full Time

Please note that while we are currently accepting applications and interviews may take place for this recruitment, we will not be extending any job offers with a start date prior to January 5, 2026.

As a cornerstone of the Pueblo community for over a century, Colorado Mental Health Hospital in Pueblo (CMHHIP) is a leading employer, provider of quality mental health services, and a community partner. CMHHIP is a 24 hour behavioral health acute care facility that is intended to provide a safe, secure, and therapeutic setting for patients with both psychiatric and medical issues. The services provided include evaluation and treatment for patients who are severely mentally ill, and the goal of this facility is to return patients to their optimal level of functioning and assist them in returning to the community as appropriate. The purpose of the Continuity of Treatment Department is to enhance, increase, and support treatment programming in all CMHHIP patient units by managing clinical staff call-offs and deployment to minimize clinical treatment and activity cancellations. The department's goal is to maintain clinical staffing levels, which will assist with patient stabilization, treatment, and discharge preparedness. The department provides clinical training and education on specific treatment approaches, and therapeutic and group facilitating skills to mental health clinicians and other clinical staff within the hospital to enhance patient treatment outcomes. The work unit develops and implements staffing systems to ensure treatment and activities are ongoing and not canceled. The department tracks group/activities compliance, clinical staff call-off, backfill, and treatment/activity groups and cancellations. The department maintains all clinical programming schedules, staff schedules, protocols, and group tracking systems. The staff has an understanding of and experience working with patients with mental health diagnoses, substance abuse, developmental disabilities, physical handicaps, legal concerns, and multiple psychiatric diagnoses. The legal status of patients may include incompetent-to-proceed, competency exams, not guilty by reason of insanity, short-term or long-term admission, or long-term extension. The unit goal is to assist in developing and maintaining group master schedules, staff schedules, staffing clinical call offs, and developing curricula, group session plans, and group manuals.

Description of Job

You are required to work at your assigned work location during your scheduled work times.

CMHHIP Campus 1600 West 24th Street, Pueblo CO. 81003

Please note: Work arrangements are subject to change at any time.

About the Position:

This position exists to provide therapeutic interventions including psychosocial therapies, individual, and group treatment to severely emotionally disturbed/cognitively impaired patients. Individualizes psychosocial therapy approaches to meet the specific needs of the patient population. Provide training and consultation to other professional staff. Carries out work lead duties to staff assigned under them. Participates in individual patient plan of care when deemed necessary. Works with Unit Management Teams to review Unit Schedule and group needs to suggest appropriate and available options as required by unit population

Duties in the position include:

Work Lead:

• functions as a work lead for up to nine (9) positions, including Social Work/Counselor IIIs, Mental Health Clinician IIs, and Mental Health Clinician Is
• provides feedback to the Administrator V on the performance of subordinate positions to include group facilitation skills, group notes, performance reviews, and tracking training needs and requirements
• performs job performance evaluation and planning for all assigned employees
• resolves personnel conflicts by mediation, modeling, and provides insight to the Administrator V and Director of Continuity of Treatment on disciplinary and corrective needs
• responsible for ensuring assigned subordinates provide high-quality groups/activities within their scope of practice to the CMHHIP patients
• collaborates with multidisciplinary teams (e.g., social workers, recreational and physical therapists, administrative assistants and nursing) to obtain feedback on subordinate job performance and responsibilities

Unit Management Team Treatment Suggestion Liaison:

• collaborates with the unit multidisciplinary treatment team by recommending treatment groups that will meet the needs of the patient population on the unit
• participates in patient plan of cares to suggest treatment groups that may be appropriate for specific treatment needs

Treatment:

• primary or co-facilitator of individual, group, and therapy sessions using evidence-based theories, practices, and concepts relevant to the needs and pathology of patients, considering their age, ethnic, cultural, religious and sexual treatment needs to affect behavioral change and the reduction of symptoms in the patient
• interpret treatment needs, problems, expectations, and changes in behavior for patients
• assesses patient education needs and identifies readiness to learn, motivation, strengths and barriers to the learning process
• provide ongoing psycho/social education that is relevant to individual, social, environmental factors, medical regimen, to enhance mental health growth and stability
• educate patients regarding related symptoms of their disorders, symptom management, risk factors, relapse prevention and level of care needs
• provide required and necessary documentation relating to this duty
• assess and document the effectiveness of specific interventions toward meeting the goals and objectives of treatment
• develop a therapeutic alliance with the patient to secure their understanding and participation in the treatment process
• provide information and education to patients about mental illness and treatment and/or refer them to relevant resources to enhance their understanding of the patient's ongoing concerns and needs
• expected to utilize years of experience and deepening understanding demonstrated through Licensure to help provide necessary service

Professional:

• participates in orientation, educational workshops, discipline meetings, and training to assure and maintain competency in the provision of their license and treatment services
• provides consultation and training regarding clinical issues on a functional basis with clinical staff and discipline members
• participates in clinical and administrative supervision to enhance, ensure, and confirm skills, knowledge, competency, and understanding of assigned cases and team, discipline, and hospital processes

Other Duties as assigned duties as Assigned:

• Perform other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights

Minimum Qualifications:

Current, valid Colorado or State participating in the Social Work Licensure Compact licensure as a:

• Licensed Social Worker (LSW) OR
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) OR
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) OR
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
• Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC)

One (1) year of experience with current, valid licensure from a state participating in the Social Work Licensure Compact based on the work assigned to the position.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of the principles of human growth and behavior, basic sociological and psychological treatment and therapy practices
• Ability to express ideas effectively, orally and in writing
• Ability to exercise good judgment in evaluating situations and making decisions
• Previous state employee

Conditions of Employment:

• Travel – Willing and able to travel
• position requires State of Colorado residency at the time of application (unless otherwise identified in the posting), and residency within the state throughout the duration of employment in this position.
• Motor Vehicle Check , if the employee will drive a state-owned vehicle, either in an on-going capacity while performing their normal day-to-day job duties OR on occasion for training/meetings/client visits/etc.
• Must possess a valid, non-restricted Colorado Driver's License or an non-restricted U.S. Driver's License for positions within 30 miles of the CO state border
• Out-of-State Driver's License holders must obtain a valid, non-restricted Colorado Driver's License within 30 days of employment start date.
• 2-step TB (tuberculosis) screening is required of all new employees upon hire
• A pre-employment criminal background check will be conducted as part of the selection process as this position is deemed to have direct contact with vulnerable persons. Felony convictions, conviction of crimes of moral turpitude, or convictions of misdemeanors related to job duties may disqualify you from being considered for this position. Should your background check reveal any charges or convictions, it is your responsibility to provide the CDHS Background Unit with an official disposition of any charges
• Shall not initiate or engage in sexual, social, personal or financial relationships with patients either during or any time after hospitalization, even if the patient requests or initiates such a relationship All relationships with current or former patients must be disclosed on your application
• Successfully pass all modules of the CMHHIP New Employee Orientation core curriculum to include English reading comprehension, relevant competency assessments and written/practical exams in Defensive Tactics
• shift work
• Possess the physical ability to successfully complete CTI and CPR
• Lift arms above head and kick as high as own waist
• Stabilize another person to accomplish a controlled containment to the floor
• Withstand impact on own body using an ASP shield
• Rotate body 90 degrees with feet planted for using a defensive tactic
• Kneel on one or both knees and stand up again with multiple repetitions
• Must be able to see and hear in order to observe, address and respond to potential breaches in safety
• Seize, hold, control or subdue violent or assaultive persons and defend oneself or others to prevent injury
• Demonstrate body agility, strength of all four limbs and the ability to walk and climb stairs consistently
• Work in situations involving assaultive behavior, physical control of another person and/or restraint situations
• Ability to read and comprehend the English language; effectively and fluently communicates in English, both verbally and in writing
• Work in an environment with fluctuating noise and temperature (hot and cold) which may include working outdoors in inclement weather and/or concrete floor/wall work settings
• Annual influenza vaccination
• Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must:
• Disclose that information on the application.
• Provide an explanation why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify the applicant from the current position.
• Provide the employee number from the applicant's prior State employment. Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination and failure to provide this information will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with CDHS.

CDHS Selection Process Explanation

Employment history is calculated on a full-time basis (40/hrs per week). Part-time employment is calculated on a prorated basis to determine qualifications. Be sure your application specifically addresses your qualifications, experience, work products, and accomplishments as they relate to the position and minimum requirements.

• Preferred Qualifications & Competencies:

• Relevant years of state service experience.

Minimum Qualification Screening Process

A Human Resources Analyst will review the work experience/job duties sections of the online job application to determine whether your experience meets the minimum qualifications for the position. You must complete the official State of Colorado online application. Cover letters and resumes WILL NOT be reviewed during the minimum qualifications screening process. You must specifically document your work experience and qualifications. Do not use "see resume" or "see attached."

You must meet the minimum qualifications to continue in the selection process. Part-time work experience will be prorated.

Comparative Analysis Process – Structured Application Review

After minimum qualification screening, the comparative analysis process will involve a review and rating of all the information you submit. The comparative analysis step may also include your results from an eSkills Test.

Your Work Experience/Job Duties

Document your work experience/job duties to the extent to which you possess the skills, education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications.

If listed, answer all supplemental questions as your answers to these questions will be evaluated during this phase. Provide at least 4-8 sentences for each supplemental question.

Supplemental Questions

Answer the supplemental questions completely and thoughtfully. We will rate your answers based on the content of your response and your writing skills (spelling, grammar, and clarity of your writing).

Appeal Rights

You may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director if your application is eliminated. You will find the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it on the State Personnel Board website.

• You or your representative must sign and submit the official appeal form for review.
• You can find the official appeal form here (Download PDF reader).

• You must be deliver the official appeal form to the State Personnel Board:

• By email ), or

• Postmarked in US Mail to(1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203, or
• Hand delivered (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203), or
• Faxed within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department's action.

Contact the State Personnel Board for assistance:

• At , or
• Refer to the Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, within the Rules webpage.

Supplemental Information

• How to apply to the State of Colorado (Youtube Video, Runtime 3:59, Closed Captions Available)

• The Assessment Process

• For additional recruiting questions, please contact

About Us & Benefits

If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference, join the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). Our professionals strive to design and deliver high quality human and health services that improve the safety, independence, and well-being of the people of Colorado. Each of us is committed to contributing to a safe and accessible CDHS. In addition to a great location and rewarding and meaningful work, we offer:

• Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans
• Medical and dental health plans
• Employer supplemented Health Savings Account
• Paid life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• 11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave
• State of Colorado Employee BenefitHub Resource Center
• Employee Wellness program
• Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, training and more
• Remote work arrangements for eligible positions
• • Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Our Values

• We believe in a people-first approach: We prioritize the needs, well-being, and dignity of the individuals, families and communities we serve. We commit to respect, fairness and access in every decision, policy and interaction. We engage client voices and experiences in the development and implementation of the services we provide.
• Balance creates quality of life: We want our team to be resilient through a supportive workplace that values flexibility, health and wellness, and employee engagement.
• We hold ourselves accountable: We take responsibility through our actions, programs, and results for the state of health and human services in Colorado.
• Transparency matters: We are open and honest with employees, our partners, the Coloradans we serve, and the public.
• We are ethical: We abide by what is best for those we serve by doing what is right, not what is easy.
• Collaboration helps us rise together:We work together with all partners, employees, and clients to achieve the best outcomes for Coloradans.

ADA Accommodations

CDHS is committed to a Colorado for ALL qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment.

This includes completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or performing essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to

EEO Statement

The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer

We are committed to increasing a "Colorado for ALL" of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities. The State of Colorado believes that a "Colorado for ALL" drives our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

Additional Support For Your Application

Toll Free Applicant Technical Support

If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV technical support at Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application 1) ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and 2) close the document before you attempt to upload (attach) it.

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