Forensic Psychologist (SOG/ST 8)

JOB PURPOSE

Reporting directly to the Director, Medical Services, the incumbent is responsible for liaising with the other Corrections professionals working in the Correctional Centers and Probation Services to conduct screenings of inmates, investigate psychological disorders among inmates and to assist in examining the mental state of detainees to determine if they are able to stand trial. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Managerial/Administrative: 

• Supervises counselling clinical practicum student from various tertiary institutions who come to the Correctional Centers on supervised field practicum; 
• Advises prison staff on incidents; 
• Manages the delivery of offender treatment programmes; 
• Presents findings from assessments to a wider staff audience; 
• Provides necessary reports to Court, Parole Board and Privy Council; 
• Makes recommendations regarding policies concerning the psychological operations of the Department; 
• Develop and implement training modules for prison staff on mental health issues;
• Regularly review and update mental health policies in collaboration with the Director of Medical Services. 

Technical/Professional: 

• Performs competency, triage, and suicide and violence risk assessments;
• Compiles quantitative and qualitative reviews of offender population; 
• Arranges the psychological testing, when needed, for clients/inmates; 
• Carries out one to one assessments of offenders; 
• Educates clinical team on psychological issues; 
• Creates, evaluates and initiates correctional programs for inmate population;
• Undertakes research projects to evaluate the contribution and effectiveness of intervention programmes; 
• Conduct in-depth behavioral analysis to support criminal investigations;
• Facilitate support groups for inmates dealing with specific issues such as addiction or trauma; 
• Assists in hostage negotiation; 
• Provides expert testimony in court; 
• Evaluates and counsels sex offenders using individual and group therapy;
• Conducts periodic research on test instruments with the goal to improve inmate assessment and better determine insanity; 
• Develops dual diagnosis programs, (treatment programs where mental health and substance abuse issues are addressed).

Other Responsibilities: 

• The incumbent may, from time to time, be assigned duties not specifically outlined within the job description but are within the capacity, qualifications and experience normally expected from a person occupying this position. 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Excellent knowledge of psychological evaluation and intervention; 
• Knowledge of the organization’s policies and procedures; 
• Ability to counsel persons who have HIV/AIDS or are facing HIV testing;
• Good problem-solving skills and strength of character; 
• Excellent presentation, oral and written communication skills; 
• Proficient understanding of cultural diversity; 
• Good Interviewing and Counselling skills; 
• Forensic Analysis skills; 
• Good interpersonal skills; 
• Report Writing skills; 
• Proficiency in the use of relevant computer applications. 

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE

• M.Sc. Degree in Forensic Psychology; 
• Three (3) years’ experience in working with forensic psychiatric cases. 

SPECIAL CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE JOB

• May be required to work beyond the normal working hours. 
• May be required to work on weekends and public holidays. 
• Exposure to high-risk environment within Correctional Facilities and their environs.
• Highly stressful and hazardous environment. 
• Exposure to confidential information. 

The Department of Correctional Services thanks all applicants for their interest, but only those shortlisted will be contacted.