The Power of Community: How Building or Joining One Can Boost Your Mental Health
In an increasingly digital and fast-paced world, feelings of isolation and disconnection have become all too common. Mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and stress affect millions globally, often exacerbated by a lack of meaningful social ties. However, one powerful antidote lies in the age-old concept of community. Whether it’s building your own network or joining an existing one, fostering a sense of belonging can profoundly impact your well-being. At its core, community refers to a group of people connected by shared interests, values, experiences, or geography. It could be a local book club, an online support group, a sports team, or even a neighborhood association. Psychologists and researchers have long studied how these connections influence our mental state.
Human beings are inherently social creatures. Evolutionary psychology suggests that our ancestors survived by banding together, and this need for connection is wired into our brains. When we feel part of a community, our bodies release “feel-good” hormones like oxytocin, which promotes trust and bonding, and serotonin, which regulates mood. Conversely, chronic loneliness can trigger the same stress responses as physical pain, leading to heightened cortisol levels that contribute to anxiety and depression.
A landmark study by the Harvard Grant Study, one of the longest-running research projects on human happiness, found that close relationships are the strongest predictor of long-term health and well-being—more so than fame, wealth, or IQ. Building or joining a community isn’t just about casual interactions; it’s about creating a support system that buffers against life’s inevitable stressors.
Reducing Loneliness and Fostering Belonging
One of the most direct benefits of community is combating loneliness, which the World Health Organization has declared a global public health concern. Loneliness isn’t just feeling alone; it’s the perceived gap between desired and actual social connections. Joining a community bridges this gap by providing regular opportunities for interaction.
For instance, consider someone recovering from a breakup or job loss. Isolating themselves might deepen despair, but participating in a hiking group or volunteering at a local shelter can introduce new friendships and shared activities. These interactions create a sense of belonging, reminding individuals they’re not alone in their struggles. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that people with strong social networks report lower levels of depression and higher life satisfaction.
Building your own community can be equally rewarding. Platforms like Meetup.com or Reddit allow you to start groups around niche interests, such as gardening or sci-fi enthusiasts. By taking the initiative, you not only gain connections but also a sense of agency, which boosts self-esteem and reduces feelings of helplessness.
Emotional Support and Shared Experiences
Communities offer a safe space to share vulnerabilities, which is crucial for mental health. Talking about challenges with empathetic listeners can provide validation and perspective, reducing the emotional weight we carry alone. Support groups for conditions like addiction, grief, or chronic illness exemplify this. In Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), for example, members share stories in a non-judgmental environment, fostering hope and accountability. Studies published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology indicate that such peer support can be as effective as professional therapy in some cases, particularly for maintaining long-term recovery.
Even informal communities, like a workplace coffee chat circle or a parenting forum, allow for emotional unloading. When you hear others say, “I’ve been there too,” it normalizes your experiences and diminishes shame. This empathy loop strengthens resilience, helping individuals bounce back from setbacks more quickly.
Boosting Mood Through Social Engagement
Regular social interactions in a community setting can elevate your mood naturally. Laughter, collaboration, and shared successes trigger endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers and mood enhancers. Physical communities, such as fitness classes or community gardens, combine social engagement with exercise, amplifying benefits. A study in the British Journal of Psychiatry found that group exercise reduces symptoms of depression more effectively than solo workouts, thanks to the added social component.
Online communities have similar effects, especially for those with mobility issues or in remote areas. During the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual platforms like Discord servers or Facebook groups helped maintain connections, with many reporting improved mental health from these digital bonds. However, balance is key—online interactions should complement, not replace, in-person ones to avoid superficiality.
Enhancing Self-Worth by Helping Others
Communities aren’t just about receiving support; they’re reciprocal. Contributing to a group—whether by organizing events, offering advice, or simply listening—instills a sense of purpose and value. Altruism activates the brain’s reward centers, similar to receiving a gift. Research from the University of California, Berkeley, shows that volunteering correlates with lower stress and greater happiness. In a community setting, this might mean mentoring a newcomer in a professional network or participating in a neighborhood clean-up. These acts reinforce your identity as a capable, connected individual, countering negative self-talk that often accompanies mental health struggles. For those with low self-esteem, starting small can build momentum. Joining a community choir or book discussion group allows gradual involvement, leading to increased confidence over time.
Access to Resources and Practical Help
Beyond emotional perks, communities provide tangible resources that indirectly support mental health. Need advice on managing anxiety? A wellness community might recommend apps, books, or therapists. Struggling financially? A local mutual aid group could offer food shares or job leads. This practical support reduces overwhelm, allowing more mental energy for self-care. In diverse communities, exposure to different perspectives broadens problem-solving skills, fostering adaptability—a key trait for mental resilience.
Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them
While communities are beneficial, they’re not without pitfalls. Toxic dynamics, like cliques or conflicts, can harm mental health. To mitigate this, choose communities aligned with your values and set boundaries. If building one, establish inclusive guidelines from the start. Introverts might find large groups daunting; starting with one-on-one connections or smaller gatherings can ease entry. Remember, quality trumps quantity— a few deep relationships often outweigh many superficial ones.
Start Building Today!
Ultimately, building or joining a community is a proactive step toward better mental health. It combats loneliness, provides emotional support, boosts mood, enhances self-worth, and offers practical resources. Whether through local events, online forums, or self-initiated groups, the act of connecting reminds us of our shared humanity.
If you’re feeling isolated, take that first step: attend a meetup, join a subreddit, or reach out to old friends. The ripple effects on your mental well-being could be transformative. After all, as the African proverb says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” In the journey of mental health, community is the companion that makes the path lighter and more rewarding.
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ABOUT THE ROLE The Washington State Department of Corrections is seeking a highly motivated and qualified licensed Physician to serve as the Facility Medical Director at the Airway Heights Corrections Center. Under the administrative supervision of the Health Services Manager and clinical oversight of the DOC Chief Medical Officer, this role directs medical and multidisciplinary clinical care. The Facility Medical Director promotes coordination of health care, leads continuous quality improvement initiatives, and maintains oversight of all medical decisions and care at the facility, ensuring a safe and humane environment while positively changing lives. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide administrative and clinical direction and oversight to all medical providers (Physicians, ARNPs, PAs, Imaging Technologists) at the facility. - Evaluate clinical performance and co-chair the Facility Coordinated Quality Improvement Program Committee. - Design, approve, and monitor clinical delivery processes at the facility level. - Ensure implementation of and adherence to DOC Health Plan, policies, and protocols. - Remain available in person or by telecommunication 24/7. - Participate in statewide clinical leadership committees, including Clinical Service Board, Facility Medical Directors meetings, and weekly medical transfer conferences. - Maintain and develop optimal working relationships with contracting hospitals and community health care providers. - Provide direct patient care to meet facility requirements and provide coverage when appropriate. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Medical Doctor (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from an accredited School of Medicine. - Completion of an ACGME/ABOM accredited residency program. - Board certification in an ABMS/ABOM certified specialty (Internal Medicine preferred). Board eligible physicians may be considered if certification is achieved within 24 months of hire. - Unrestricted license to practice medicine in Washington State. - Current DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) registration. - BLS certification. - Experience supervising and/or directing healthcare delivery operations. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must possess work authorization that does not require employer sponsorship for a visa now or in the future. - Pre-employment background check (including criminal record history) and drug test. - Physical requirements: Ability to work in confined spaces, climb stairs, walk long distances, and frequently lift up to 30 pounds (up to 50 pounds rarely, push up to 100 pounds). - Requires respirator medical evaluation, fit testing, training, and use of respiratory protection. - May require a baseline TB skin test within 60 days of hire. - Potential exposure to incarcerated individuals, Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) pepper spray, and prison animal care programs. - Foreign equivalent degrees must include a credential evaluation report (e.g., from WES or AICE). SELECTION PROCESS - Application assessment is ongoing. The hiring authority reserves the right to offer the position at any time during the recruitment process. - This recruitment may be used to fill multiple permanent or non-permanent positions. HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit a detailed resume. 2. Submit a cover letter regarding your interest in this position with the agency. 3. Include a minimum of three professional references, ensuring both phone number and email address are provided for each. 4. Attach a credential evaluation report if holding a foreign equivalent degree. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: State of Washington (Department of Corrections) - Department: Dept. of Corrections - Division: HS - AHCC (Airway Heights Corrections Center) - Job Type: Full Time - Permanent - Job Number: HS-AHCC-2025-08170 - Location: Spokane County - Airway Heights, WA - Opening Date: 09/03/2026 - Closing Date: 9/17/2026 11:59 PM Pacific - Schedule: 7:00am - 3:30pm, Monday - Friday (Saturday/Sunday off) - Benefits: Comprehensive package including up to 25 paid vacation days per year, 8 hours of paid sick leave per month, 12 paid holidays per year, generous retirement plan (potentially PSERS), and family medical, dental, and vision insurance.
ABOUT THE ROLE The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, Division of State-Operated Specialty Care, is seeking a dedicated full-time or part-time Forensic Psychiatrist to support the mission of the Cherokee Mental Health Institute (CMHI). This role offers a collaborative, supportive environment with potential for a hybrid work schedule, rotating on-call responsibilities, relocation assistance, and on-site housing in a single-family home for qualifying candidates. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide psychiatric and medical care through consultation, supervision, and partnership with mid-level providers such as Physician Associates and Nurse Practitioners. - Develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. - Prepare psychiatric and forensic evaluations for court submission in compliance with statutory deadlines. - Prescribe medications and determine when referrals to other providers or services are appropriate. - Document treatment and services through timely medical reporting. - Offer education, training, or conference instruction in psychiatry and general medicine. - Work with medical school graduates through CMHI's psychiatric internship program. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Graduation from an accredited school of medicine. - Completion of an internship program. - Licensure as a physician by the State of Iowa. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be available for rotating on-call responsibilities. - Hybrid work schedule may be available, but all work performed on behalf of Iowa Health and Human Services must occur within the State of Iowa. - Must comply with federal Right to Work laws and pass E-Verify employment eligibility confirmation. SELECTION PROCESS - This is a non-merit position exempt from the standard screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise. - Candidates will be evaluated based on their resume, cover letter, and qualifications for the forensic psychiatry role. - New hires must be verified through the federal E-Verify system. HOW TO APPLY - Send a resume and cover letter directly to the Point of Contact: Brad Wittrock. - Email: bradley.wittrock@hhs.iowa.gov EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: State of Iowa - Agency: 400 Health & Human Services - State Operated Specialty Care - Job Number: 27-00659 - Job Type: Full-time or Part-time - Location: Cherokee Mental Health Institute, Cherokee County, IA - Opening Date: 09/03/2026 - Closing Date: 10/04/2026 at 11:59 PM Central - Agency Address: Lucas State Office Building, 321 E 12th St, Des Moines, Iowa, 50319 - Benefits: Day-one eligibility for health, dental, and vision coverage; paid time off (vacation, sick leave, paid holidays); retirement plans (IPERS and Retirement Investors Club with state match); flexible spending accounts; life and free long-term disability insurance; Employee Assistance Program; and employee discount programs. Relocation assistance and on-site housing are also available.
ABOUT THE ROLE This role provides full psychiatric care for patients at Torrance State Hospital, supporting each patient's path toward stability. The position requires leadership, attention to detail, and collaboration with medical and clinical partners to lead treatment efforts and deliver high-quality care. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Patient Assessment: Conduct detailed psychiatric examinations and establish accurate diagnoses. - Treatment Planning: Develop individual treatment plans by directing team discussions and using interdisciplinary input. - Medical Interpretation: Review consultations, lab results, and clinical studies to determine appropriate treatment orders. - Emergency Response: Lead psychiatric and medical emergency actions, provide direction, and apply trained procedures. - Documentation Preparation: Produce reports, progress notes, treatment reviews, and competency assessments. - Court Participation: Testify at hearings related to commitments, competency, and guardianship. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Completion of a residency or training program in psychiatry which meets the certification requirements of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology or the American Osteopathic Board of Neurology and Psychiatry. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must possess a license to practice medicine in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as issued by the State Board of Medical Education and Licensure, or the State Board of Osteopathic Examiners. - A conditional offer of employment will require a medical examination. - This position falls under the Older Adult Protective Services Act, requiring submission and approval of satisfactory criminal history reports, including PA State Police and FBI clearance. - Pennsylvania residency requirement is currently waived for this title. - Must be able to perform essential job functions. SELECTION PROCESS - Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as the exam for this position. - No additional written exam at a test center is required. - Score is based on the detailed information provided on the application and in response to supplemental questions. - The score is valid for this specific posting only. - Applicants may only apply or test once for this posting. - Results will be provided via email. HOW TO APPLY - Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed. Eligibility information must be provided directly on the application. - Applications must be submitted by the closing date: September 22, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern. Late applications will not be accepted. - Generative AI tools may be used for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent information or assist during interviews is not permitted. - Contact for inquiries: Sandra Schleicher, saschleich@pa.gov. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Civil Service Permanent Full-Time - Department: Department of Human Services, Torrance State Hospital - Location: 121 Longview Drive, Torrance, PA 15779 (Westmoreland County, PA) - Work Schedule: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with a 30-minute lunch. Possible evening, weekend, and holiday on-call hours. - Telework: Not available for this position. - Union: PDA - Pennsylvania Doctor Alliance (Bargaining Unit T4) - Note: This is a reposting. Applicants from the previous posting (August 10, 2026 to August 29, 2026) cannot submit a new application.
ABOUT THE ROLE Under general supervision, performs professional nursing duties in hospitals, emergency hospitals, clinics, sanitariums, and other institutions within the San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH). SFDPH prioritizes equitable and inclusive access to quality healthcare, values workforce diversity, and focuses on advancing equity across race, ethnicity, gender, sex, sexuality, disability, and immigration status. Employees work across the San Francisco Health Network, Population Health, Behavioral Health Services, and Administration to deliver services and support communities. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provides nursing care to patients within an assigned hospital unit, clinic, or any SFDPH setting - Observes and reports symptoms and conditions of patients - Takes and records vital signs or other diagnostics including temperatures, respiration, and pulse - Reports unusual occurrences and unusual results of treatments - Sets up treatment trays, prepares instruments, and other equipment - Implements medical and nursing care plans - Directs and supervises the patient care provided by nursing personnel - Maintains standard unit or clinic activities - Assists in administering highly specialized therapy - Maintains records reflecting patients' condition, medication, treatment, and reactions - Follows regulations, policies, and procedures for nursing care - May direct the work of auxiliary sub-professional personnel in assisting with patient care and sanitation - Performs other related duties as assigned or required MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - License: Possession of a valid permanent or temporary (including interim permit) California Registered Nurse License. License status must be "Current" according to search.dca.ca.gov. - Experience: At least one (1) year of experience working as a Registered Nurse (one year full-time employment is equivalent to 2,000 hours based on a 40-hour work week). SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - License number must be explicitly included in the application to avoid rejection. - Applicants must clearly state how they meet the minimum qualifications. - Verification of qualifying education and experience may be required at any point during the recruitment process. - Complete and verifiable registered nursing employment history (up to 21 years) must be included to determine the appropriate salary step. - Many positions at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital (ZSFG) start on the night shift (e.g., 7:00pm-7:00am). - Falsifying education, training, or work experience may result in disqualification from this and future job opportunities. SELECTION PROCESS - Completion of a questionnaire regarding experience and licensure as part of the application. - Consolidated recruitment process: applicants will be considered for all nursing specialties. - Additional selection processes may be conducted by the hiring department prior to final hiring decisions. - Certification follows the Rule of the List. - An eligible list of applicant names will be created and remains active for a maximum of six (6) months. HOW TO APPLY - Submit applications exclusively through the City and County of San Francisco online portal (SmartRecruiters) at https://careers.sf.gov/ - Use a personal email address that is checked regularly, not a shared or work email. - Ensure first and last name match legal ID for verification. - Retain the confirmation email from notification@smartrecruiters.com as proof of submission. - For questions, contact Katrina Navarro at katrina.navarro@sfdph.org or (628) 271-6717. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Public Health - Job Class: 2320-Registered Nurse - Role Type: Permanent Civil Service - Hours: Full-time (Part-time also noted) - Exam Type: Continuous - Recruitment ID: CCT-2320-H00083 - Application Deadline: Continuous
ABOUT THE ROLE Improve inmate wellness at the State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Camp Hill by providing high-quality dental care. This role offers dependable work-life balance, meaningful clinical autonomy, and the opportunity to be part of a team that values strong collaboration and high standards of care. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Conduct periodontal exams, diagnose oral conditions, and provide restorative and preventative treatments - Explain medical histories, care instructions, and treatment plans to inmate patients - Direct the work of dental assistants and hygienists, offer training, and evaluate performance - Examine schedules, records, laboratory results, and grievances to maintain standards and improve quality - Manage inventory, approve new supply needs, and maintain proper security and tool control - Carry out additional assigned responsibilities as needed MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Graduation from an approved school of dentistry (applicants within three months of graduating with a qualifying degree are considered to have met this requirement) - Ability to perform essential job functions SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must possess a license to practice dentistry issued by the Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry - Successful completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, PA is required - Must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements - Pennsylvania residency requirement is currently waived for this title SELECTION PROCESS 1. Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as the exam for this position (no additional written exam required) 2. Score is based on the detailed information provided on the application and in response to supplemental questions 3. Score is valid for this specific posting only 4. Applicants may only apply or test once for this posting 5. Results will be provided via email HOW TO APPLY - Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed; eligibility must be supported directly on the application - If claiming education in supplemental questions, a copy of college transcripts must be attached (unofficial transcripts are acceptable) - Application must be submitted by the closing date: 9/30/2026 11:59 PM Eastern - Late applications and required materials will not be accepted - Generative AI tools may be used for preparation purposes only; using AI to misrepresent information or assist during interviews is not permitted EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Corrections - Location: State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill / Medical, 2500 Lisburn Road, Camp Hill, PA 17001 - Job Type: Civil Service Permanent Full-Time - Work Schedule: 37.5 hours per week, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with a 30-minute lunch break (no evenings, weekends, or on-call duties) - Telework: Not available for this position - Benefits: Eligible for full retirement benefits as early as age 55; DEA License renewal and liability insurance covered by the Commonwealth; up to 50 hours of additional paid leave for job-related continuing medical education - Contact: Trisha Pratt, 717.317.5339, tpratt@pa.gov
ABOUT THE ROLE Correctional Health Services (CHS) is seeking a collaborative, visible, and highly accountable Chief Nursing Officer to provide executive leadership for nursing and clinical support services within a complex, 24/7 correctional healthcare system. Reporting to the CHS Director and serving on the Senior Executive Team, the CNO is responsible for strategic, clinical, operational, workforce, and fiscal leadership across all CHS facilities. The role ensures nursing operations support evidence-based, medically necessary, integrated healthcare for patients in the Maricopa County jail system. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide executive leadership and strategic direction for nursing across all CHS facilities and 24/7 operations. - Serve as the senior nursing executive and principal advisor to the CHS Director. - Lead, supervise, develop, and evaluate Nursing Managers and other nursing leaders. - Establish and evaluate standards of nursing practice to ensure safe, evidence-based, patient-centered care. - Collaborate with CHS Administration, Chief Medical Officer, and interdisciplinary leaders to promote integrated care. - Partner with the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) on operational matters while maintaining clinical independence. - Develop and evaluate nursing staffing models and ensure appropriate clinical coverage across facilities and shifts. - Provide executive oversight of scheduling, workforce utilization, and strategies to manage vacancies and overtime. - Partner with Human Resources to strengthen recruitment, retention, and workforce development. - Use clinical, operational, and financial data to establish priorities and drive measurable improvement. - Maintain continuous nursing readiness for accreditation, regulatory review, and audits. - Participate in Electronic Health Record (EHR) governance, optimization, and workflow evaluation. - Provide executive leadership during significant clinical events, emergencies, or critical incidents. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Seven years of nursing experience in a hospital, ambulatory, correctional, behavioral health, or similarly complex healthcare environment. 2. Two years of nursing leadership experience involving supervision, management, or clinical oversight of nurses and healthcare professionals. 3. Valid, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license issued by the Arizona State Board of Nursing or a multistate license recognized by Arizona. 4. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing program. 5. Master's degree in Nursing, Healthcare Administration, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a closely related field may substitute for up to two years of the required general professional nursing experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must maintain active and valid BLS/CPR certification meeting CHS requirements. - Must obtain Certified Correctional Health Professional (CCHP) certification within 12 months of appointment and maintain it throughout employment. - Must successfully complete and maintain background, security clearance, and other requirements for MCSO secured facilities access. - Ability to work inside a jail, stand, walk, and bend for extended periods, and perform physical tasks like CPR, pushing equipment, climbing stairs, and lifting patients. - Availability outside traditional business hours, including weekends and holidays, for emergencies. - Travel between CHS clinical locations within a 5-mile radius is required. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Consideration is only given to candidates who submit online applications. 2. Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile. 3. Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation, including drug and alcohol testing for safety-sensitive positions. HOW TO APPLY Submit an online application through the Maricopa County Workday portal. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: 3250 W Lower Buckeye Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85009 - Time Type: Full time - Job Type: Unclassified - Department: Correctional Health - Posting Date: 09/09/26 - Application Deadline: Open Until Filled - Benefits: Tuition reimbursement, work-life balance, growth opportunities, low-cost healthcare, child care benefits (Maricopa County Kids Club), paid vacation/sick/parental leave, extensive wellness program, and enrollment in the Arizona State Retirement System (11.98% contribution with 100% employer match on Day 1).
ABOUT THE ROLE The New York City Police Department seeks an outstanding Psychologist to serve as Deputy Director of the Behavioral Care and Support Section (BCSS). This role focuses on the management, administration, and coordination of fitness for duty and psychiatric/psychological evaluations for police officers and civilian members, supporting the NYPD's mission to maintain order and protect the people. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Manage, administer, and coordinate fitness for duty evaluations for NYPD police officers. - Manage, administer, and coordinate psychiatric and psychological evaluations for civilian and uniformed members of the NYPD. - Supervise and oversee the work activities of uniformed and civilian personnel, including psychologists, social workers, mental health counselors, and externs. - Provide training and supervision to psychologists conducting fitness for duty evaluations, mental health assessments, and psychological testing. - Conduct candidate evaluation, assessment, and testing, engage in research projects, and attend division conferences. - Provide clinical supervision to the Counseling Services Unit. - Support the Legal Bureau on Civil Service Commission appeal cases and provide expert testimony. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. A doctorate degree in psychology from an accredited college and five years of full-time, satisfactory professional psychological experience in a recognized setting (hospital, law enforcement, clinic, social agency, school, etc.), with at least eighteen months in an administrative, managerial, executive, or supervisory capacity, AND a valid New York State license as a Psychologist; or 2. A valid New York State license to practice medicine, possession of a valid Board Certification in Psychiatry, and two years of full-time, satisfactory professional psychological or psychiatric experience in a recognized setting, with at least eighteen months in an administrative, managerial, executive, or supervisory capacity; or 3. Education and/or experience equivalent to the above, provided the candidate holds the required doctorate and psychology license, or medical license and psychiatry board certification, plus the mandatory eighteen months of administrative or supervisory experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Minimum of 5 years of experience and competence in fitness for duty evaluation, psychological evaluation, pre-employment mental health assessment, and psychological testing. - Supervisory experience is mandatory. - Must reside within the NYPS required New York State Counties. - Must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete employment eligibility verification upon hire. SELECTION PROCESS - Exam may be required. HOW TO APPLY - Click the Apply button on the official posting or visit http://cityjobs.nyc.gov and search for JOB ID # 798609. - All applications must be forwarded to the Chief Surgeons' Office, Medical Division, 16th floor. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Police Department / Medical DIV/CIV And Cadet - Location: 1 Lefrak City, Queens (NYC-ALL BOROS) - Schedule: Full-Time - Number of positions: 1 - Posted until: 10/04/2026 - Category: Health - Residency: New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment. City employees with 2 continuous years of service may be eligible to reside in Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange County. - Benefits: Comprehensive package including health insurance for employee and eligible dependents, union benefits (dental and vision), paid annual and sick leave, paid holidays, a pension, and optional pre-tax savings programs (Deferred Compensation, IRA, flexible spending account).
ABOUT THE ROLE Join the Child Study and Treatment Center (CSTC) at the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to conduct forensic psychological evaluations for youth involved in the justice system under RCW 10.77. This role provides expert testimony, completes psychological assessments, and writes reports to help courts make informed decisions about young people's mental health and legal competence. This position is also eligible as a 12-month In-Training opportunity for candidates with a doctorate degree who are not yet licensed, working as a Psychologist 3 under supervision until Washington State psychology licensure is obtained. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Conduct forensic evaluations for courts, including assessments of competence to stand trial, mental state, clinical diagnoses, developmental status, risk, and restoration potential - Interview youth, review records, consult collateral sources, and administer psychological tests - Write clear, objective reports to inform court decisions - Provide expert testimony as needed - Offer competence restoration services for youth when indicated - Travel within Washington State for interviews and court appearances - Complete necessary documentation and support the clinical team MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program - Possession of a license to practice psychology in the State of Washington (or eligible for the 12-month In-Training Psychologist 3 track if unlicensed but holding a doctorate) - One year of post-doctoral work with forensic populations (adults or juveniles) - Ability and experience to independently complete juvenile competency forensic evaluations SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Telework up to 2 days per week may be available - Pierce County employees are eligible for an Orca Card for transportation needs - Valid driver's license required for employees driving on state business - Liability insurance required if driving a privately owned vehicle on state business - Must disclose any relative, household member, close friend, or romantic partner within the potential supervisory chain of command per DSHS nepotism policy SELECTION PROCESS - Background check including criminal record history will be conducted prior to a new hire - This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit an application through the State of Washington employment portal 2. For questions about this recruitment, contact grant.grady@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number 04423 EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: State of Washington, Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) - Division: BHHA - Job Type: Full Time - Permanent - Job Number: 2026-04423 - Location: Pierce County - Lakewood, WA - Opening Date: 09/03/2026 - Closing Date: 9/17/2026 11:59 PM Pacific - DSHS is an equal opportunity employer committed to fairness, access, and social justice. Accommodations are available upon request.