Mental Health Professional Jobs for OPT Students
Mental Health Professional jobs on OPT cover roles like licensed counselor, clinical social worker, and behavioral health specialist. Most positions require a master's degree and state licensure, which can take time to obtain after graduation. STEM OPT extension is not available for most mental health programs, so your 12-month window matters.
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Mental Health Professional
Position Overview
The Mental Health Professional (MHP) serves as a specialized student support provider responsible for delivering high-quality, compliant mental health services to students with intensive behavioral and social-emotional needs. In this role, the MHP primarily functions as a Tier 3 intervention provider and IEP service provider, ensuring students receiving counseling and behavioral services through special education receive consistent, evidence-based support aligned to their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The MHP also coordinates CARE/MTSS processes for students with the most intensive needs, oversees Section 504 plans related to mental health supports, and serves as the school’s McKinney-Vento liaison for students experiencing homelessness. This role is designed to ensure compliance with special education service delivery requirements, provide clinical support for students with significant behavioral needs, and strengthen systems that support student well-being across the school community.
Who we are:
KIPP St. Louis is a part of a national network of free, open-enrollment, public charter schools offering a choice to families and children in St. Louis city. As the largest charter school system in the city, we are driven and committed to our mission and vision.
Mission: Together with families and communities, we create joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students with the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose—college, career, and beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and build a more just world.
Vision: Every child grows up free to create the future they want for themselves and their communities.
KIPP St. Louis currently educates approximately 2,000 students and boasts hundreds of alumni. Today, our St. Louis network consists of three elementary schools, two middle schools, and a high school.
What makes KIPP St. Louis unique?
We believe that our educators are proving what's possible in urban education each and every day, by inspiring students, and helping them discover the joy of learning. KIPP schools support our educators to help students achieve academic excellence, building the skills and confidence they need to succeed. Together, we are raising the bar for every student, every day.
Job Description
Position type: Full time, exempt, 10 Month
Reporting & Collaboration
- Direct Manager: Mental Health Manager
- Key Collaborators:
- School Leaders
- Special Education Case Managers
- Behavior Climate Specialists
- Teachers and Instructional Staff
- Families and External Mental Health Partners
Autonomy & Decision Making
The Mental Health Professional exercises professional judgment in:
- Designing and delivering therapeutic interventions aligned to student needs
- Monitoring progress toward IEP counseling goals
- Conducting risk and safety assessments
- Determining appropriate clinical supports and referrals
- Recommending Tier 3 interventions for students experiencing significant behavioral or emotional challenges
Inputs: What will I be doing in my day to day work?
IEP Mental Health Service Delivery
- Deliver all IEP-mandated counseling and behavioral support services with fidelity
- Maintain timely and accurate documentation of services in SpedTrack and SCUTA.
- Provide individual and small group counseling aligned to IEP goals.
- Participate in IEP meetings and collaborate with special education teams on student support strategies.
Tier 3 Behavioral & Mental Health Intervention
- Provide clinical support for students experiencing significant behavioral or emotional challenges.
- Implement evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral strategies, trauma-informed interventions, and solution-focused counseling.
- Support the development and monitoring of Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) for students with intensive behavioral needs.
CARE Team / MTSS Coordination
- Coordinate or support CARE/MTSS processes for students requiring intensive interventions.
- Facilitate structured problem-solving meetings to identify barriers to student success.
- Monitor progress of Tier 3 interventions and adjust supports as needed.
Section 504 Coordination
- Support the development and monitoring of Section 504 plans
- Collaborate with teachers and families to ensure accommodations are implemented with fidelity.
- Maintain documentation and compliance with federal guidelines.
McKinney-Vento Homeless Liaison Responsibilities
- Serve as the school’s McKinney-Vento liaison, ensuring students experiencing homelessness are identified and supported in accordance with federal law.
- Ensure students experiencing homelessness receive immediate enrollment protections and equitable access to school services.
- Coordinate supports such as transportation, academic access, and participation in school programs.
- Maintain required documentation and ensure compliance with McKinney-Vento federal requirements.
- Partner with families and community organizations to connect students with housing, social service, and community resources.
Crisis Response & Risk Assessment
- Provide crisis intervention and mental health risk assessments when necessary.
- Support school teams in responding to acute student mental health concerns.
- Coordinate with families and community agencies when additional supports is required.
Family & Community Partnership
- Maintain consistent communication with families regarding student progress and needs.
- Connect families with community resources and external service providers when appropriate.
- Collaborate with external agencies to ensure coordinated support for students.
Outcomes: What will I be evaluated on?
Service Delivery
- IEP counseling minutes delivered with fidelity and compliance.
Student Impact
- Improved behavioral and social-emotional outcomes for students receiving Tier 3 supports.
Compliance
- Accurate and timely documentation of counseling services and intervention progress.
Systems Coordination
- Effective CARE/MTSS coordination for students with intensive needs.
- Effective implementation and monitoring of 504 accommodations.
Student Access & Equity
- Students experiencing homelessness are identified and supported in compliance with McKinney-Vento requirements.
- Barriers to enrollment, attendance, and participation are minimized through coordinated school and community supports.
What skills should I already bring, i.e., what should I already have a track record around?
Successful Mental Health Professionals demonstrate:
- Expertise in evidence-based mental health and behavioral interventions
- Strong knowledge of special education counseling services and compliance requirements
- Ability to conduct risk assessments and crisis intervention
- Experience supporting students with trauma, behavioral challenges, and emotional regulation needs
- Strong facilitation skills for multidisciplinary problem-solving teams
- Knowledge of McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act requirements
- Excellent documentation, organization, and time management skills
- Ability to build strong relationships with students, families, and school staff
Qualifications
What you bring to the table:
Required
- Master’s Degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a related field
- Valid state licensure or certification in a mental health discipline
- Experience providing counseling or behavioral intervention services to children or adolescents
- Strong understanding of student mental health and behavioral support practices
- Commitment to improving outcomes for historically underserved students
Preferred
- Experience working in a K-12 school setting
- Experience supporting special education counseling services
- Experience with MTSS or student support systems in schools
- Knowledge of trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices
Additional Information
What we bring to the table:
KIPP St. Louis is committed to pay equity and to ensuring that we do not unintentionally perpetuate historic wage gaps that persist due to individual negotiations. As a result, salaries are not negotiated. We are transparent about salaries in our job postings so that candidates can make an informed decision before beginning the hiring process.
We are a fast paced, energetic team and family with passionate people who are leading a movement and to cultivate their best working environment we provide the following:
- $0 deductible healthcare plan option, including medical, vision and dental.
- Employer Paid Short Term Disability.
- $50,000 life insurance policy at no cost to the employee.
- Retirement plan through PSSRSSL with an employer match up to 14% and an optional 403b as a supplement to our pension program.
- Employee Recognition: When we succeed together, we celebrate together with our annual gala award ceremony, holiday party, and more!
- Public Service student loan forgiveness program qualified employer.
- Ongoing professional development.
Generous time off:
- Paid leave for illness, personal days, bereavement, jury duty, and military-related leave.
- Paid parental leave for new families.
- Paid holidays, as well as a one week Thanksgiving break, a two-week winter break, a week-long spring break.
- Wellness days provided throughout the year.
If you are interested in working at KIPP St. Louis, please visit our website to find out how to apply!
KIPP St. Louis is committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment for all our students, families, teachers, staff and community members. As an equal opportunity employer, we hire without consideration to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status or disability.
Company Description
Mental Health Professional
Position Overview
The Mental Health Professional (MHP) serves as a specialized student support provider responsible for delivering high-quality, compliant mental health services to students with intensive behavioral and social-emotional needs. In this role, the MHP primarily functions as a Tier 3 intervention provider and IEP service provider, ensuring students receiving counseling and behavioral services through special education receive consistent, evidence-based support aligned to their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The MHP also coordinates CARE/MTSS processes for students with the most intensive needs, oversees Section 504 plans related to mental health supports, and serves as the school’s McKinney-Vento liaison for students experiencing homelessness. This role is designed to ensure compliance with special education service delivery requirements, provide clinical support for students with significant behavioral needs, and strengthen systems that support student well-being across the school community.
Who we are:
KIPP St. Louis is a part of a national network of free, open-enrollment, public charter schools offering a choice to families and children in St. Louis city. As the largest charter school system in the city, we are driven and committed to our mission and vision.
Mission: Together with families and communities, we create joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students with the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose—college, career, and beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and build a more just world.
Vision: Every child grows up free to create the future they want for themselves and their communities.
KIPP St. Louis currently educates approximately 2,000 students and boasts hundreds of alumni. Today, our St. Louis network consists of three elementary schools, two middle schools, and a high school.
What makes KIPP St. Louis unique?
We believe that our educators are proving what's possible in urban education each and every day, by inspiring students, and helping them discover the joy of learning. KIPP schools support our educators to help students achieve academic excellence, building the skills and confidence they need to succeed. Together, we are raising the bar for every student, every day.
Job Description
Position type: Full time, exempt, 10 Month
Reporting & Collaboration
- Direct Manager: Mental Health Manager
- Key Collaborators:
- School Leaders
- Special Education Case Managers
- Behavior Climate Specialists
- Teachers and Instructional Staff
- Families and External Mental Health Partners
Autonomy & Decision Making
The Mental Health Professional exercises professional judgment in:
- Designing and delivering therapeutic interventions aligned to student needs
- Monitoring progress toward IEP counseling goals
- Conducting risk and safety assessments
- Determining appropriate clinical supports and referrals
- Recommending Tier 3 interventions for students experiencing significant behavioral or emotional challenges
Inputs: What will I be doing in my day to day work?
IEP Mental Health Service Delivery
- Deliver all IEP-mandated counseling and behavioral support services with fidelity
- Maintain timely and accurate documentation of services in SpedTrack and SCUTA.
- Provide individual and small group counseling aligned to IEP goals.
- Participate in IEP meetings and collaborate with special education teams on student support strategies.
Tier 3 Behavioral & Mental Health Intervention
- Provide clinical support for students experiencing significant behavioral or emotional challenges.
- Implement evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral strategies, trauma-informed interventions, and solution-focused counseling.
- Support the development and monitoring of Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) for students with intensive behavioral needs.
CARE Team / MTSS Coordination
- Coordinate or support CARE/MTSS processes for students requiring intensive interventions.
- Facilitate structured problem-solving meetings to identify barriers to student success.
- Monitor progress of Tier 3 interventions and adjust supports as needed.
Section 504 Coordination
- Support the development and monitoring of Section 504 plans
- Collaborate with teachers and families to ensure accommodations are implemented with fidelity.
- Maintain documentation and compliance with federal guidelines.
McKinney-Vento Homeless Liaison Responsibilities
- Serve as the school’s McKinney-Vento liaison, ensuring students experiencing homelessness are identified and supported in accordance with federal law.
- Ensure students experiencing homelessness receive immediate enrollment protections and equitable access to school services.
- Coordinate supports such as transportation, academic access, and participation in school programs.
- Maintain required documentation and ensure compliance with McKinney-Vento federal requirements.
- Partner with families and community organizations to connect students with housing, social service, and community resources.
Crisis Response & Risk Assessment
- Provide crisis intervention and mental health risk assessments when necessary.
- Support school teams in responding to acute student mental health concerns.
- Coordinate with families and community agencies when additional supports is required.
Family & Community Partnership
- Maintain consistent communication with families regarding student progress and needs.
- Connect families with community resources and external service providers when appropriate.
- Collaborate with external agencies to ensure coordinated support for students.
Outcomes: What will I be evaluated on?
Service Delivery
- IEP counseling minutes delivered with fidelity and compliance.
Student Impact
- Improved behavioral and social-emotional outcomes for students receiving Tier 3 supports.
Compliance
- Accurate and timely documentation of counseling services and intervention progress.
Systems Coordination
- Effective CARE/MTSS coordination for students with intensive needs.
- Effective implementation and monitoring of 504 accommodations.
Student Access & Equity
- Students experiencing homelessness are identified and supported in compliance with McKinney-Vento requirements.
- Barriers to enrollment, attendance, and participation are minimized through coordinated school and community supports.
What skills should I already bring, i.e., what should I already have a track record around?
Successful Mental Health Professionals demonstrate:
- Expertise in evidence-based mental health and behavioral interventions
- Strong knowledge of special education counseling services and compliance requirements
- Ability to conduct risk assessments and crisis intervention
- Experience supporting students with trauma, behavioral challenges, and emotional regulation needs
- Strong facilitation skills for multidisciplinary problem-solving teams
- Knowledge of McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act requirements
- Excellent documentation, organization, and time management skills
- Ability to build strong relationships with students, families, and school staff
Qualifications
What you bring to the table:
Required
- Master’s Degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a related field
- Valid state licensure or certification in a mental health discipline
- Experience providing counseling or behavioral intervention services to children or adolescents
- Strong understanding of student mental health and behavioral support practices
- Commitment to improving outcomes for historically underserved students
Preferred
- Experience working in a K-12 school setting
- Experience supporting special education counseling services
- Experience with MTSS or student support systems in schools
- Knowledge of trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices
Additional Information
What we bring to the table:
KIPP St. Louis is committed to pay equity and to ensuring that we do not unintentionally perpetuate historic wage gaps that persist due to individual negotiations. As a result, salaries are not negotiated. We are transparent about salaries in our job postings so that candidates can make an informed decision before beginning the hiring process.
We are a fast paced, energetic team and family with passionate people who are leading a movement and to cultivate their best working environment we provide the following:
- $0 deductible healthcare plan option, including medical, vision and dental.
- Employer Paid Short Term Disability.
- $50,000 life insurance policy at no cost to the employee.
- Retirement plan through PSSRSSL with an employer match up to 14% and an optional 403b as a supplement to our pension program.
- Employee Recognition: When we succeed together, we celebrate together with our annual gala award ceremony, holiday party, and more!
- Public Service student loan forgiveness program qualified employer.
- Ongoing professional development.
Generous time off:
- Paid leave for illness, personal days, bereavement, jury duty, and military-related leave.
- Paid parental leave for new families.
- Paid holidays, as well as a one week Thanksgiving break, a two-week winter break, a week-long spring break.
- Wellness days provided throughout the year.
If you are interested in working at KIPP St. Louis, please visit our website to find out how to apply!
KIPP St. Louis is committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment for all our students, families, teachers, staff and community members. As an equal opportunity employer, we hire without consideration to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status or disability.
How to Get Visa Sponsorship in Mental Health Professional
Start your state licensure process immediately
Most mental health roles require state licensure, and the application process can take 3 to 6 months. Begin your licensure paperwork before OPT starts so your credentials are ready when employers evaluate your eligibility to practice independently.
Target employers who hire associate-level clinicians
Community mental health centers, federally qualified health centers, and hospital systems regularly hire associate-level clinicians under supervision. These employers are more accustomed to sponsoring new graduates who need supervised hours toward full licensure, making them more OPT-friendly.
Clarify supervision requirements upfront
Many states require post-degree supervised hours before full licensure. Confirm with prospective employers that they offer a formal supervision structure. Employers who already have licensed supervisors on staff are better positioned to support you during the OPT period.
Highlight practicum and internship hours on your resume
Employers want proof you can deliver clinical services from day one. List your supervised practicum hours, client population experience, and any evidence-based modalities you were trained in. Concrete clinical hours reduce perceived risk for employers considering OPT candidates.
Understand your degree's OPT timeline before applying
Mental health master's programs generally do not qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving you 12 months of authorized work. Factor this into your job search timeline and be transparent with employers so they can plan H-1B sponsorship before your OPT expires.
Research nonprofit and government employers for stronger sponsorship odds
Nonprofit behavioral health organizations and government-funded mental health agencies often have established H-1B sponsorship processes and are familiar with hiring international clinicians. These employers tend to invest in staff long-term, improving your chances of visa sponsorship after OPT.
Mental Health Professional jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Mental Health Professional on OPT without a state license?
It depends on the role and state. Many positions allow you to work under supervision as an associate counselor or clinical intern while you complete licensure requirements. However, practicing independently without the required state license is not permitted. Review your state's specific requirements and confirm that your employer offers a qualifying supervision arrangement before accepting a position.
Does a mental health master's degree qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most mental health master's programs, including programs in counseling, social work, and marriage and family therapy, are not classified under STEM-designated CIP codes and therefore do not qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. You'll have 12 months of standard post-completion OPT. If H-1B sponsorship is a goal, discuss the timeline with your employer early so they can file before your authorization expires.
Which types of employers are most likely to sponsor mental health professionals for H-1B visas?
Hospital systems, federally qualified health centers, large nonprofit behavioral health agencies, and university counseling centers are among the more common sponsors for mental health professionals. These organizations typically have HR infrastructure and legal support for immigration filings. Searching Migrate Mate for mental health roles lets you filter for employers who have sponsored international workers previously, saving significant time in your job search.
Can I do telehealth work on OPT as a mental health professional?
Yes, telehealth roles can qualify as valid OPT employment as long as the position is directly related to your degree field. However, telehealth practice is governed by state licensure laws, and you must be licensed in the state where your client is located. Confirm with your employer and DSO that your remote arrangement meets both OPT employment requirements and applicable state licensing rules.
What should I look for in a job posting to assess whether it's OPT-compatible?
Look for postings that list associate licensure levels as acceptable, mention supervision structures or clinical training programs, and don't require immediate independent licensure. Avoid roles that list full independent licensure as a hard requirement if you haven't yet obtained it. Postings from established behavioral health organizations with formal onboarding programs are generally more structured for new graduates and more familiar with OPT work authorization.
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