H-1B Visa Psychology Jobs
Psychology roles qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship when the position requires at least a bachelor's degree in psychology or a directly related field. Clinical, research, and industrial-organizational roles are common pathways. Employers file the LCA with DOL and petition USCIS, with the annual cap and April 1 filing window applying to most positions.
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Are you looking to further your professional career in the field of behavioral health treatment? If you are ready to put your master's degree to work and gain valuable experience in an inpatient mental health setting where you have room to grow and learn, this is the ideal opportunity for you.
Join our team at Eastern State Hospital as a Psychology Associate working in our Forensic Competency Restoration Unit. The Psychology Associate-Competency Restoration (CR) Therapist works with an interdisciplinary team to provide a schedule of therapeutic groups that meet the needs of a diverse population. The Psychology Associate-CR Therapist facilitates daily group and individual therapy working with patients of a variety of diagnoses and presentations. You will plan and implement restoration of competency to stand trial programs and participate in planning ward and unit programs. We offer job stability, a meaningful career, and job satisfaction. This job belongs to the Psychology Associate job class.
Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
Some more of what you will do
- Primarily provide group-based therapies aimed at restoring an individual’s competency to stand trial through evidence-based interventions (minimum 6 per week). Treatment interventions target barriers to adjudicative competency including deficits in courtroom knowledge, capacity to communicate productively with an attorney, and capacity to make rational legal decisions. Opportunities to provide individual therapies on those topics are also available.
- Implement the “Breaking Barriers” competency restoration curriculum.
- Document patient progress toward treatment goals and make recommendations to treatment teams.
- Work with the unit Psychologist who serves as the primary clinical supervisor for the Psychology Associate.
- Work with other groups and committees assigned to make recommendations for improvements to support program goals and objectives.
The standard schedule for this position is 8:00AM-4:30PM, but opportunities are available for flexible schedule (e.g. 4/10 schedule, one day of remote work, etc.) following successful completion of the 6-month probationary period.
Who should apply?
- Professionals with a master's degree in Psychology, Social Work or Behavioral Health Counseling from an accredited school or department of psychology.
AND
- Registration as a WA State Agency Affiliated Counselor or professional licensure in the State of Washington
- A passion for working with people with severe and persistent behavioral health conditions
- Ability to see value in small successes.
- Ability to be creative, flexible, and innovative in group development and implementation.
Additional knowledge, skills, and abilities we are looking for:
- Clinical knowledge – Understanding of mental illness, recovery principles, and trauma-informed treatment.
- Assessment skills – Ability to evaluate complex situations and recommend appropriate interventions.
- Crisis response – Training in de-escalation and advanced crisis intervention techniques.
- Collaboration – Experience working with multidisciplinary teams to support patient care.
- Communication – Ability to share information clearly with patients, families, and colleagues.
- Adaptability – Capacity to respond effectively in high-acuity, fast-changing environments.
- Professionalism – Commitment to maintaining safety, ethical standards, and patient dignity.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience facilitating psycho-educational or other therapeutic treatment groups
- Experience working with individuals with severe and persistent behavioral health disorders
- Experience working within a forensic mental health system
Who we are:
Want to know more about Eastern State Hospital? Click on the videos below to meet staff, take a tour, and explore your career.
Interested? Apply today!
Along with your application, please attach the following:
- Letter of interest (up to two pages) specifically addressing the education, knowledge, and competencies you have that will make you successful in this job.
- A current chronological resume or CV.
- Three or more references
Questions? Please contact recruiter Alex Baclaan at Alex.Baclaan@dshs.wa.gov and reference project number 07536.
The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.
Supplemental Information
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
Relationship and Reporting Structure (Nepotism) Disclosure: If you are selected for hire, you must disclose whether you have a relative, household member, close friend, or romantic partner within your potential supervisory chain of command. DSHS has a Relationships and the Reporting Structure policy that prohibits nepotism and can be reviewed here. Applicants whose appointment would result in a prohibited reporting relationship are not eligible for appointment to that position.
E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
- Leave Sharing
- Parental Leave
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
- Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
Description
Are you looking to further your professional career in the field of behavioral health treatment? If you are ready to put your master's degree to work and gain valuable experience in an inpatient mental health setting where you have room to grow and learn, this is the ideal opportunity for you.
Join our team at Eastern State Hospital as a Psychology Associate working in our Forensic Competency Restoration Unit. The Psychology Associate-Competency Restoration (CR) Therapist works with an interdisciplinary team to provide a schedule of therapeutic groups that meet the needs of a diverse population. The Psychology Associate-CR Therapist facilitates daily group and individual therapy working with patients of a variety of diagnoses and presentations. You will plan and implement restoration of competency to stand trial programs and participate in planning ward and unit programs. We offer job stability, a meaningful career, and job satisfaction. This job belongs to the Psychology Associate job class.
Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
Some more of what you will do
- Primarily provide group-based therapies aimed at restoring an individual’s competency to stand trial through evidence-based interventions (minimum 6 per week). Treatment interventions target barriers to adjudicative competency including deficits in courtroom knowledge, capacity to communicate productively with an attorney, and capacity to make rational legal decisions. Opportunities to provide individual therapies on those topics are also available.
- Implement the “Breaking Barriers” competency restoration curriculum.
- Document patient progress toward treatment goals and make recommendations to treatment teams.
- Work with the unit Psychologist who serves as the primary clinical supervisor for the Psychology Associate.
- Work with other groups and committees assigned to make recommendations for improvements to support program goals and objectives.
The standard schedule for this position is 8:00AM-4:30PM, but opportunities are available for flexible schedule (e.g. 4/10 schedule, one day of remote work, etc.) following successful completion of the 6-month probationary period.
Who should apply?
- Professionals with a master's degree in Psychology, Social Work or Behavioral Health Counseling from an accredited school or department of psychology.
AND
- Registration as a WA State Agency Affiliated Counselor or professional licensure in the State of Washington
- A passion for working with people with severe and persistent behavioral health conditions
- Ability to see value in small successes.
- Ability to be creative, flexible, and innovative in group development and implementation.
Additional knowledge, skills, and abilities we are looking for:
- Clinical knowledge – Understanding of mental illness, recovery principles, and trauma-informed treatment.
- Assessment skills – Ability to evaluate complex situations and recommend appropriate interventions.
- Crisis response – Training in de-escalation and advanced crisis intervention techniques.
- Collaboration – Experience working with multidisciplinary teams to support patient care.
- Communication – Ability to share information clearly with patients, families, and colleagues.
- Adaptability – Capacity to respond effectively in high-acuity, fast-changing environments.
- Professionalism – Commitment to maintaining safety, ethical standards, and patient dignity.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience facilitating psycho-educational or other therapeutic treatment groups
- Experience working with individuals with severe and persistent behavioral health disorders
- Experience working within a forensic mental health system
Who we are:
Want to know more about Eastern State Hospital? Click on the videos below to meet staff, take a tour, and explore your career.
Interested? Apply today!
Along with your application, please attach the following:
- Letter of interest (up to two pages) specifically addressing the education, knowledge, and competencies you have that will make you successful in this job.
- A current chronological resume or CV.
- Three or more references
Questions? Please contact recruiter Alex Baclaan at Alex.Baclaan@dshs.wa.gov and reference project number 07536.
The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.
Supplemental Information
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
Relationship and Reporting Structure (Nepotism) Disclosure: If you are selected for hire, you must disclose whether you have a relative, household member, close friend, or romantic partner within your potential supervisory chain of command. DSHS has a Relationships and the Reporting Structure policy that prohibits nepotism and can be reviewed here. Applicants whose appointment would result in a prohibited reporting relationship are not eligible for appointment to that position.
E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
- Leave Sharing
- Parental Leave
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
- Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
See all 150+ H-1B Visa Psychology Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding H-1B Visa Sponsorship in Psychology
Verify your degree meets specialty occupation
USCIS requires your psychology degree to directly relate to the role, not just broadly qualify you. A general BA in psychology supporting a neuropsychology research position may trigger an RFE, so document the field-specific coursework and licensure that bridges the two.
Target cap-exempt employers first
Universities, nonprofit research institutions, and government-affiliated hospitals are exempt from the H-1B lottery. Psychology roles at these employers can be filed any time of year, giving you a significant advantage over candidates applying to cap-subject private practices or tech firms.
Check prevailing wage tiers before negotiating
Use the OFLC Wage Search to look up the prevailing wage for your specific SOC code and location before your offer is finalized. Your employer's LCA must certify at least that wage level, so knowing it protects you from offers structured below what USCIS will accept.
Search H-1B filing history on Migrate Mate
Filter by psychology-related job titles on Migrate Mate to see which employers have active DOL LCA filing history for your role type. This surfaces sponsors beyond hospitals and universities, including corporate wellness programs and behavioral health platforms that hire licensed psychologists.
Clarify licensure status with your employer early
Many clinical psychology H-1B petitions stall because the employer assumes state licensure is sorted before filing. Confirm whether the role requires licensure at hire, whether a supervised hours period is built into the position, and how that affects the specialty occupation classification.
Register before the March lottery deadline
USCIS opens H-1B electronic registration in early March each year. Your employer must submit your registration during that window for a cap-subject position. Missing the window means waiting a full year, so confirm your employer's timeline well before February.
H-1B Visa Psychology: Frequently Asked Questions
Do psychology jobs qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
Yes, psychology positions qualify for H-1B sponsorship when the role requires at least a bachelor's degree in psychology or a closely related field. Clinical psychologist, research psychologist, and industrial-organizational psychologist roles typically meet the specialty occupation standard. Roles where any bachelor's degree is accepted, regardless of field, may not qualify and can draw an RFE from USCIS.
Which types of employers sponsor H-1B visas for psychologists?
Hospitals, university research departments, behavioral health networks, federal agencies, and corporate employee assistance programs are common H-1B sponsors for psychology roles. University and nonprofit hospital employers are cap-exempt, meaning they can file year-round without entering the lottery. You can browse employers with active H-1B LCA filing history for psychology roles on Migrate Mate.
Does a psychology license affect my H-1B petition?
Licensure requirements vary by state and role type. If the position legally requires licensure to practice, USCIS expects evidence that you hold or are eligible for the relevant state license. For roles involving supervised hours toward licensure, your employer should document that structure in the petition to avoid a specialty occupation challenge. Confirm your licensure status before your employer files.
What SOC code applies to psychology roles for the LCA?
Most clinical psychology positions file under SOC 19-3031 (Clinical and Counseling Psychologists) or 19-3032 (Industrial-Organizational Psychologists). Research-focused roles may fall under 19-3039 (Psychologists, All Other). The SOC code determines the prevailing wage level your employer must certify on the LCA, so matching the code to your actual duties matters. Review the O*NET occupation profile to confirm the correct classification.
Can I switch psychology employers while on H-1B?
Yes. H-1B portability under AC21 lets you change employers after your petition has been pending for 180 days, as long as the new role is in the same or a similar occupational classification. Your new employer must file an H-1B transfer petition before you start. For psychology, the new role generally needs to remain in a specialty occupation requiring a degree in psychology or a related field.