Job Description
Polk County's School Based Mental Health (SBMH) Program, a partnership with four local school districts, places therapists in elementary, middle, and high schools across rural Polk County.
As a School Based Mental Health Therapist, you will provide a range of short-term, evidence-based services including individual and group skill-building, emotional support, crisis intervention, and suicide assessments.
You will consult with families and school staff to connect students and families to community resources.
Qualification
Candidates must meet Oregon licensure requirements for a mental health therapist. Experience in school-based or youth mental health settings is preferred.
- Master's degree in social work, counseling, psychology, or a related field.
- Current Oregon licensure as LCSW, LPC, LMFT, or eligible for licensure.
- Experience providing individual and group therapy to children and adolescents.
- Knowledge of evidence-based practices for youth mental health.
- Ability to conduct crisis intervention and suicide risk assessments.
- Strong consultation and collaboration skills with school staff and families.
- Valid driver's license and ability to travel between school sites.
Role Responsibilities
Provide short-term individual and group therapy to students in school settings.
- Conduct crisis intervention and suicide assessments as needed.
- Consult with families, teachers, and school administrators to support student success.
- Connect students and families to community resources.
- Deliver classroom presentations on mental health topics such as anti-bullying, problem solving, and social skills.
- Maintain confidential student records and documentation in compliance with HIPAA and FERPA.
- Participate in team meetings and professional development activities.
Conditions & Requirements
Must pass a criminal background check.
- Must have reliable transportation and valid Oregon driver's license.
- Ability to work onsite in Dallas, OR school buildings.
- Temporary position: August 17, 2026 through mid-December 2026.
- May require occasional evening or weekend hours for school events.
Benefits
Hourly pay range $31.23
- $39.51.
- Opportunity to work in a collaborative school-based program.
- Gain experience in a unique partnership between county and school districts.
- Work with a diverse student population.
Additional Information
This is a limited-duration temporary position from August 17, 2026 through mid-December 2026.
- The SBMH Program serves students regardless of insurance or ability to pay.
- Staff are placed in elementary, middle, and high schools throughout rural Polk County.
- The position is housed within the Family & Community Outreach Department.
- For questions, contact Polk County Human Resources.
About Company
Polk County is a local government entity serving the community in Oregon's Willamette Valley. The Family & Community Outreach Department oversees programs that support the well-being of residents, including the School Based Mental Health Program. This role is part of a collaborative effort between the county and four local school districts to provide accessible mental health services to students in school settings. Polk County (OR) is named as the hiring organisation for the School Based Mental Health Therapist
- Temporary post.
FAQs
What is the duration of this temporary School Based Mental Health Therapist position?
The position is limited duration from August 17, 2026 through mid-December 2026, covering the fall school semester.
Do I need to be licensed to apply for this therapist role?
Yes, you must hold current Oregon licensure as LCSW, LPC, LMFT, or be eligible for licensure. A master's degree in social work, counseling, or psychology is required.
Will I be working in one school or multiple schools?
You may be placed in one or more school sites within rural Polk County, including elementary, middle, and high schools, depending on program needs.
What types of services will I provide as a school-based therapist?
You will provide short-term individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, suicide assessments, and classroom presentations on topics like anti-bullying and social skills.
Is this position eligible for benefits?
As a temporary position, benefits may be limited. The hourly pay range is $31.23 to $39.51. Contact Polk County Human Resources for specific benefit details.