School-Based Mental Health Therapist (SBMHT)

Job Title: School-Based Mental Health Therapist (SBMHT)

Purpose Statement

Under the general supervision of the Principal and Counseling & Mental Health Services Director, the School-Based Mental Health Therapist provides "restricted services" within the school setting to treat and prevent mental illness and emotional disorders in students. This role is essential for creating a supportive environment that reduces barriers to learning�such as anxiety, depression, and behavioral problems�while fostering a positive school culture where students feel safe and valued. 

NOTE: In alignment with Utah Code � 53G-9-901, TCSD defines "restricted services" as mental health services which include (i.) conducting a professional evaluation of an individual's condition of mental health, mental illness, or emotional disorder, (ii.) prescribing a plan for the intervention or treatment of a condition of mental illness or emotional disorder, and (iii.) engaging in the conduct of professional intervention, including psychotherapy by the application of established methods and procedures generally recognized in the professions of mental health therapy.

Essential Performance Responsibilities

• Clinical Intervention: Conduct professional evaluations of students' mental health conditions and emotional disorders consistent with recognized professional standards.
• Treatment Planning: Prescribe and implement plans for the intervention or treatment of mental illness or emotional disorders.
• Direct Therapy: Engage in professional interventions, using established methods and procedures to modify maladaptive behavior and promote mental wellness.
• Parental Collaboration and Compliance:
  • Obtain informed written parental consent before beginning restricted services each school year.
  • Provide parents with notice within one business day after each service, including a description of the topics discussed (unless the parent has opted out).
  • Consult with parents to identify specific topics the therapist is not authorized to address with the student.
  • Balance the therapeutic relationship with the legal and inherent rights of parents as the guiding voice in their children's lives.
• Multidisciplinary Teaming: Serve as a core member of the school's multidisciplinary teams to evaluate and triage the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs of students and create individualized strategies.
• Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS): Primary focus on Tier 3 (Intensive) supports, providing personalized, data-driven interventions for students with severe or persistent needs.
• Professional Record Keeping: Maintain confidential records in accordance with FERPA. These records are part of the student's education record and must be available for parental review.

Additional Duties

• Other duties as assigned by the school administrator(s) or the district Counseling & Mental Health Services Director.
• Additional hours occasionally required outside of regular contract daily hours to support student and school needs (i.e., Parent Teacher Conferences, etc.).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of school-based mental health principles, theories, and methods.
• Knowledge of culturally sustaining practices and sensitivity to generational trauma.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis, the formulation of action plans, and appropriate documentation.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, administrators, school staff, and other community stakeholders.
• Ability to organize, track, and provide data regarding services provided.
• Ability to engage in continuous professional learning through state training, district professional development meetings, and professional organizations.
• Knowledge and application of federal and state laws (including FERPA) regarding education and students.
• Knowledge and application of crisis response interventions and best practices.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation concerning performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and professional working relationships.
• Willingness to comply, adapt, and support new legislation or district requirements when applicable.
• Must uphold all applicable professional ethical standards and state statutes regarding student privacy and mandatory reporting.

Equipment

Uses standard office equipment, including a personal computer, printer, copier, and telephone.

Travel Requirements

Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Work Environment

Works in standard office and school building environments.

Qualifications and Licensing Requirements

• Minimum education requirements: Master's degree from an accredited college or university in a mental health-related discipline.
• Must hold a current, unrestricted license from the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), or Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT).
  • Dual-licensed with a USBE School Social Worker license preferred.
  • Three or more years of experience in a school setting preferred.
• Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.

Salary and Benefits

• Initial Placement: Level F on the Certified Salary Schedule.
• Dual-Licensure Incentive: If the applicant is dual-licensed as a USBE School Social Worker, salary is advanced to Level G.
• Contract:
  • Full-time Equal-pay position
  • Certified Salary Schedule + additional 3 working days (after the school year ends).
• Benefit Eligible