Psychologist

POSITION SUMMARY The Psychologist is primarily responsible for the assessment, development, implementation and evaluation of specialized care plans for patients with complex behavioural issues. The Psychologist in this role would benefit from specialty training in conducting functional analysis of challenging behaviours and behavioural interventions. The Psychologist will function as a member of the centralized Clinical Neuropsychology Service (CNS), a team which includes neuropsychologists, psychometrists and various learners. The Psychologist will work within a recovery-based model of care to provide time limited, inpatient behaviour therapy services to individuals with challenging or aggressive behaviours related to their mental health diagnosis (i.e., personality disorders), as well as individuals with a dual diagnosis (i.e., developmental disabilities and mental health needs) or dementia. The Psychologist will collaborate with the various other healthcare disciplines within the patient’s unit to provide training and education to front-line staff and in the development and provision of integrated care plans and recommendations in accordance with best practice standards. The Psychologist plans, coordinates and provides related research and program evaluation activities. Specific roles and tasks will be shaped by program needs and client population. The psychologist takes a leadership role in education, clinical training and other academic activities within the program. The Psychologist practices within the scope of declared competencies registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. Given that St. Joseph's Healthcare is affiliated with McMaster University, the psychologist is expected to engage in appropriate teaching and research activities and holds a faculty appointment within the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences. QUALIFICATIONS Education & Registration Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from an APA/CPA-accredited program (or equivalent). Registered or eligible for registration with the College of Psychologists of Ontario, with competency in clinical psychology for adult populations (additional competency in seniors and/or neuropsychology is an asset). Certification with the Board Certification of Behaviour Analysts (BCBA) is an asset Experience Minimum one year of post-doctoral clinical experience (preferred). At least two years working with individuals with major mental illness, developmental disabilities, dual diagnosis, or dementia. Experience managing challenging and aggressive behaviours in adults and seniors. Clinical & Behavioural Expertise Proficiency in standardized psychological assessments (diagnostic and intellectual). Knowledge of behavioural assessment, management, and treatment planning, including crisis intervention and prevention. Ability to develop, implement, and evaluate individualized behavioural care plans. Understands key risk factors in terms of patient/client behaviours within a dynamic inpatient mental health setting. Skills & Competencies Excellent organizational, interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with patients/clients, clinical team staff, and community partners. Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team and dynamic environment. Initiative, sound judgment, flexibility, and problem-solving skills. Knowledge of community resources (asset). Compliance with ethical and professional standards. Leadership & Academic Contributions Demonstrated interpersonal and supervisor skills required for the supervision of students, interns, residents, psychometrists, staff from other healthcare disciplines, and psychologists and/or psychological associates registered for supervised practice by the College of Psychologists of Ontario Advanced oral and written communication for reports, presentations, and publications. Track record of academic productivity and proficiency in clinical research design and analysis. Teaching and research experience suitable for faculty appointment at McMaster University. RESPONSIBILITIES Clinical Care Conduct evidence-based psychological assessments, including psychodiagnostic, intellectual disability, and functional behavioural analyses. Develop, implement, monitor, and evaluate individualized behavioural care plans, incorporating chart review, patient observation, and team consultation. Deliver direct patient care on inpatient units, including behavioural interventions, crisis prevention, and safe de-escalation strategies. Modify and evaluate behavioural strategies through individual and group interventions; identify and document therapy outcomes. Maintain accurate clinical records, data collection protocols, and outcome measures. Collaboration & Support Provide consultation and training to inpatient staff on behavioural strategies and crisis intervention. Educate patients, families, and caregivers on behavioural management and treatment options. Liaise with community agencies and services to coordinate care. Education & Training Deliver in-service training and develop educational materials for staff. Supervise and mentor learners (students, interns, residents) and professional staff in assessment, treatment, and research. Provide didactic teaching (seminars, rounds) for learners at St. Joseph’s Healthcare and McMaster University. Academic & Research Maintain faculty appointment with McMaster University and contribute to departmental activities. Lead an independent program of academic productivity (publications, presentations, research funding). Engage students and trainees in research and scholarly activities. Professional Development Commitment to ongoing learning to maintain competence in clinical psychology and behavioural science. #J-18808-Ljbffr