Independently Licensed Therapist

Position Title: Therapist – Independently Licensed
Reports To: Clinical Supervisor

 

Position Summary

The Independently Licensed Therapist provides clinical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for clients with behavioral health and/or substance use conditions. The therapist develops and implements treatment plans, facilitates individual, group, and family therapy sessions, and ensures compliance with state, federal, and Medicaid regulations.

The primary work location and designated reporting site for training will be assigned by the direct supervisor. All location details, scheduling information, and reporting instructions upon hire or as operational needs change.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct diagnostic assessments (e.g., biopsychosocial, SUD/mental health).

• Develop, implement, and update individualized treatment plans.

• Provide evidence-based therapy (individual, family, and group).

• Document services in the EHR within 48 hours in compliance with Medicaid and agency standards.

• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and case consultations.

• Provide crisis intervention and de-escalation as needed.

• Ensure adherence to HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and agency confidentiality policies.

• Participate in continuing education and maintain active independent licensure.

• Will respond to all internal communications (email, Teams, phone, or messages) within 24 business hours, unless scheduled out of the office or on approved leave.

 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or related field.

• Active independent New Mexico license (LPCC, LCSW, LMFT, or equivalent).

• Minimum 2 years’ clinical experience preferred.

• Knowledge of Medicaid documentation and billing requirements.

• Strong skills in evidence-based practices (CBT, MI, DBT, trauma-informed care).

 

Scope of Practice:

Therapist (Social Worker)

Social work therapists assess, diagnose, treat, and help prevent psychosocial, emotional, and behavioral disorders using social-work theory and methods. They provide psychotherapy to individuals, families, and groups; develop and update treatment plans; consult with the care team; and maintain clinical documentation that aligns appointments, notes, and billing. Practice must match licensure level and supervision requirements (e.g., LMSW under supervision; LCSW/LISW may practice independently as permitted). A therapist may provide Community Support Work (CSW) services if they hold a valid CSW certificate and bill under the CSW code (H2015). However, they cannot bill for both CSW and therapy services for the same client or during the same service period.

Does not: prescribe or recommend medication; practice independently without required license/supervision; perform or bill CCSS/CPSW services during therapy sessions; delegate clinical documentation or assessment to unlicensed staff; alter or backdate records.

 

Therapist (Counselor)

Counselors apply mental-health, psychotherapeutic, and human-development principles in a therapeutic relationship to diagnose, treat, and prevent mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders. They conduct diagnostic evaluations; provide individual, couple, family, and group counseling; set goals and implement evidence-based interventions; and document services in alignment with treatment plans and billing. Practice must follow New Mexico counseling licensure rules and supervision requirements (e.g., LMHC under supervision; LPCC may practice independently). A therapist may provide Community Support Work (CSW) services if they hold a valid CSW certificate and bill under the CSW code (H2015). However, they cannot bill for both CSW and therapy services for the same client or during the same service period.

Does not: prescribe medication; supervise independently if LMHC; perform or bill CCSS/CPSW functions during a therapy session; practice outside counseling training (e.g., testing or services not permitted by license); alter or backdate records.