Director of Behavioral Health bei Unity Health Care

About Unity Health Care

Unity Health Care, the largest network of community health centers in Washington, DC, is committed to delivering compassionate, comprehensive health services to all residents, especially the underserved. We are proud to partner with the DC Department of Corrections (DOC) in bringing essential medical and behavioral health services to the incarcerated population.

Position Summary

Unity Health Care is seeking a Director of Behavioral Health to lead, oversee, and enhance all behavioral health services at our DC Jail program. Reporting directly to the DOC Medical Director, the Director will supervise clinical operations, implement evidence-based practices, and ensure high standards of care for mental health and substance use services within the correctional setting.

Why Join Unity at the DOC?

• Make a significant impact on behavioral health care in correctional settings.
• Work with a dedicated and mission-driven team in a dynamic environment.
• Enjoy a competitive salary, robust benefits, and professional growth opportunities.
•  Unity Health Care is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and clinical oversight for mental health and substance use services, including therapeutic housing units.
• Design and implement trauma-informed, evidence-based behavioral health programs.
• Ensure compliance with Unity Health Care and DC DOC policies and procedures.
• Oversee HIPAA compliance and federal/local regulations in all mental health services.
• Provide supervision, training, and professional development for behavioral health staff.
• Review clinical documentation and lead peer review processes.
• Coordinate yearly and probationary staff evaluations.
• Collaborate with external behavioral health agencies and DC government offices.
• Represent Unity in meetings, policy discussions, and testimony on behavioral health issues.
• Participate in accreditation reviews and quality improvement initiatives.
• Provide direct clinical care when needed and perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD or PsyD in Clinical or Forensic Psychology.
• Licensed to practice psychology in the District of Columbia.
• At least 5 years of senior management experience.
• Minimum 3 years of experience with chronically mentally ill populations.
• Experience in correctional, criminal justice, or re-entry settings preferred.

Key Competencies & Skills

• Deep understanding of psycho-pharmacology and behavioral health best practices.
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and supervise clinical staff.
• Experience with DSM-IV-TR/DSM-5 diagnostics and psychological assessments.
• Strong decision-making skills, particularly in high-stakes or crisis situations.
• Skilled in conducting psychotherapy (individual and group).
• Able to determine appropriate inmate placements between mental health and general units.