The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) serves people of all ages who have an intellectual disability or defined closely related developmental disabilities (such as autism, cerebral palsy, and seizure disorder), and those with additional dual diagnoses (ID and other psychiatric disorders).

The main office for DBHDD is located in downtown Atlanta. DBHDD has regional offices throughout the state, including five regional hospitals. This position is funded in the Region 6 Field Office operating out of Columbus, GA although some travel to counties throughout the state is expected. 

*The selected candidate can work from home for document review, report writing, and development of trainings.  Equipment and supplies are provided, and the selected candidate will be reimbursed for mileage and reasonable travel expenses.  Direct bill for car rental/motel available.  All test equipment and supplies provided.  Laptop and cell phone provided.  The selected candidate will not be required to live in Columbus, GA.

The psychologist is required to either review documentation to determine eligibility for Intellectual/ Developmental Disability waiver services with a records review consult report, or to conduct evaluations/testing when needed to write a psychological evaluation report. Consultation or evaluation reports must explain and justify eligibility findings according to DBHDD report format protocols.  One of the primary roles for this position will be to assist in work overload from the various regions and to conduct evaluations (if necessary) throughout the state in situations in which an eligibility determination needs to be expedited.  Additionally, the psychologist will assist in development and presentation of trainings to be presented to the community throughout the state. 

Job Responsibilities & Performance Standards

• Compiles background information from referral sources, family, and the applicant, as well as from document reviews.
• Appropriately administers, scores, interprets, tests, and uses appropriate methods to diagnose intellectual disability and the defined closely related developmental disabilities.
• Conducts comprehensive clinical interviews.
• Properly diagnoses the type and severity of the applicant's clinical diagnoses based on accurate assessment of the presenting symptoms and problems.
• Recommends decisions of diagnostic eligibility for I/DD services.
• Documents psychological assessment results and treatment recommendations according to accepted practices as well as legal and department requirements.
• Consults reference material such as textbooks, manuals, and journals in order to identify symptoms and behaviors to make diagnoses.
• Travels to conduct evaluations throughout the state.
• Appropriately researches and develops power points and other training materials with proper citations.
• Travels to present training materials throughout the state of Georgia.

• Knowledge of the standards, practices, and methods in applied psychology.
• Knowledge of current developments and trends in the field of psychology.   
• Knowledge of psychological tests, tools, and techniques.
• Ability to administer, score, and interpret psychological tests.
• Ability to interpret statistical measures, to prepare statistical charts and graphs, and to write clear, concise reports.