Psychiatric Social Worker Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Psychiatric social workers qualify for H-1B visa and other work visas as specialty occupation roles requiring specialized mental health training. Healthcare employers, including hospitals and mental health facilities, frequently sponsor these positions due to ongoing workforce shortages in behavioral health services. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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The Department of Corrections is seeking a highly motivated and qualified individual for the critical role of Psychiatric Social Worker 3 (PSW3) for the Washington Corrections Center (WCC) located in Shelton, WA. This is a full-time day shift position with Sat/Sun off.
This position works collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to provide medical, behavioral health, and substance use disorder transition planning services. The position addresses transition needs of incarcerated individuals preparing for release, coordinates and advocates for needed services, provides resources, and develops Continuity of Care Plans that assist patients with significant physical and/or mental disorders in their transition back to the community.
A COMPLETED APPLICATION PACKET WILL INCLUDE:
A detailed resume
A cover letter
* Three professional references
Applications will be reviewed as they are received. The hiring authority reserves the right to offer the position at any time during the recruitment process. It is to the applicant's advantage to apply as early as possible.
Duties
Conduct release planning for incarcerated individuals who have healthcare follow up needs:
Identify transition needs for incarcerated individuals and assist with identification of community resources as needed.
Complete Reentry Needs Assessment, healthcare related reentry facilitation, and Health Services Reentry Plan.
Conduct reentry groups and forums as assigned/appropriate based on setting.
Set follow-up medical and mental health services in the community.
Contact and coordinate services with other agencies including Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) and DSHS Home and Community Services (HCS).
Coordinate care with the Managed Care Organization (MCO).
Attend Multidisciplinary Facility Risk Management Team (MDT/FRMT) meetings.
Participate in case conferences with the primary therapist, psychiatric provider, primary care provider, Reentry/Discharge Nurse and/or pharmacy as needed in preparation for release.
Provide education about Narcan administration.
Facilitate Durable Medical Equipment (DME) necessary for immediate support at release.
Document all contacts with patients per policy.
Respond to kites and other correspondence.
Input OMNI encounters.
Cross coverage for other PSW locations as needed based on caseloads.
Facilitate Affordable Care Act (ACA), Transitions Outreach ABD Program (TOAP) /Expedited Medical Eligibility (EME), and/or Reentry Community Services Program (RCS-P) services prior to release:
Offer assistance in completion of all documentation needed for the ACA application process.
Complete the EME application for identified incarcerated individuals (both residential and outpatient), request Behavioral Health Discharge Summary from Psychologist 4 and follow TOAP procedures.
Participate in multi-disciplinary team meetings and assist as needed for RCS cases.
Understand the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) process and communicate resource information.
Coordinate with DSHS Home and Community Services.
Participate in networking and information sharing with various community stakeholders.
Other transition and continuity of care duties as assigned:
* Support medical and mental health staff by coordinating medical surrogacy/legal guardianship when needed.
Qualifications
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Must be able to obtain and maintain status as an Agency Affiliated Counselor through the Washington State Department of Health or possess a current, valid WA Social Work license. In addition, SW licensure/credential must be maintained in good standing at all times in order to perform their SW duties. Each SW is responsible for adhering to the legal, educational and ethical requirements for maintaining their professional credentials.
Incumbent must apply for agency affiliated counselor license within 7 days of hire. An Agency Affiliated Counselor may only provide counseling services as part of his or her employment for a recognized agency. Applicants for an Agency Affiliated Counselor credential who apply within 7 days of employment may provide services within the agency for up to 60 days while the Department of Health processes your application.
* Must have a current, valid Driver’s License.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
A master’s degree in social work from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and one to two years of postgraduate experience providing professional case management services, discharge/release planning and/or professional counseling services (i.e. individual/group, crisis intervention, psychoeducational) to adults with severe and persistent mental illness, criminal/violent behavior and/or chemical dependency issues.
Current, valid Washington state social worker license.
* 3 to 4 years’ experience providing professional case management services, discharge/release planning and or professional counseling services (i.e. individual group, crisis intervention, psychoeducational) to adults with severe and persistent mental illness, criminal/violent behavior and chemical dependency issues.
Supplemental Information
- Mission: The mission of DOC is to improve public safety by positively changing lives.
- Our Vision: Working together for safer communities.
- Our Commitment: To operate a safe and humane corrections system and partner with others to transform lives for a better Washington.
- Our Core Values:
- Cultivate an environment of integrity and trust: Corrections values partnership and trust. We foster openness and support courageous conversations. We are committed to doing what we say we are going to do by being accountable and taking personal ownership in our actions.
- Respectful and inclusive interactions: Corrections appreciates and values individuals by promoting an inclusive and diverse environment, which encourages safety. We respect, value, and listen to the thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of our stakeholders and consider the impact on those we serve as well as each other.
- People's safety: Corrections believes in creating an environment that values physical, mental, and emotional security and well-being. We honor those who advance safety for all.
- Positivity in words and actions: At Corrections, we assume positive intentions and believe there is a shared desire for the best outcome. We consistently demonstrate positive behavior and always put forth our best effort.
- Supporting people's success: Corrections is committed to our community – understanding individuals, instilling hope, embracing change, and providing opportunities.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
* Please include a minimum of three (3) professional references with your application. A professional reference is defined as an individual who has been paid to supervise your work and can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job competencies. If you do not have any or sufficient professional references, please include non-related professionals, such as educators or other professional associates.
Please note: Phone number AND email address are required for all professional references.
- A background check including criminal record history will be conducted prior to a new hire. 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 position.
- Employees may work directly with or near incarcerated individuals in a potentially hazardous setting. Please consider this when deciding whether to apply.
- We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free work environment, and our employees are expected to comply with all state and federal laws. A pre-employment drug test may be administered as part of the selection process, and applicants who test positive for any controlled substances will be disqualified from consideration.
- Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) is an aerosol pepper spray made available as a means of self-defense and/or de-escalation. Applicants with sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure they could expect in this position.
- Animal care projects are a common component of most Washington State prisons, including dog and cat programs. Applicants with animal sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure they could expect in this position.
- Tuberculosis (TB) is a priority health issue for DOC employees. The successful candidate may be required to provide valid proof of a baseline TB skin test within 60 days from the date of hire. When positive tests result, further information, testing and treatment will also be required. Employment is not contingent upon test results.
- This position may be represented by a bargaining unit.
- Requires respirator medical evaluation questionnaire, fit testing, training, and use of respiratory protection as required by the WA Industrial Safety & Act standards. Refer to WAC 296-842 to learn more.
- Must be able to work in spaces, climb stairs, walk long distances, and frequently lift up to 30 pounds. Under rare circumstances this position may be required to lift or carry up to 50 pounds and push up to 100 pounds.
- Foreign equivalent degrees awarded outside the United States must have a credential evaluation report attached to your application. You may request the required evaluation/documentation from www.wes.org and www.aice-eval.org. Until this documentation is provided, you will not be selected to move forward in the hiring process.
- DOC complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements for the federal employment eligibility verification form I-9. The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States consistent with the requirements of that form.
- DOC does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT).
What We Offer:
As an employee of the Department of Corrections, your work-life integration is a priority. Washington State employees are offered one of the most inclusive and competitive benefits packages in the nation. Besides comprehensive family insurance for medical, dental, and vision, these perks also may include:
Salary is based on experience and is determined at the time a final offer of employment is made. The salary range listed in the job posting includes Steps A-M. Step M is a longevity step and is typically gained six years after being assigned to Step L in your permanent salary range.
Up to 25 paid vacation days a year
8 hours of paid sick leave per month
12 paid holidays a year
Generous retirement plan
Flex Spending Accounts
Dependent Care Assistance
Deferred Compensation and so much more!
DOC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, honorably discharged veteran, veteran status, genetic information, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability.
For questions about this recruitment, or to request reasonable accommodation in the application process, please email nicholas.epps@doc1.wa.gov or call at 509.710.4890.
For TTY service, please call the Washington Relay Service at 7-1-1 or 1.800.833.6388.
Description
The Department of Corrections is seeking a highly motivated and qualified individual for the critical role of Psychiatric Social Worker 3 (PSW3) for the Washington Corrections Center (WCC) located in Shelton, WA. This is a full-time day shift position with Sat/Sun off.
This position works collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to provide medical, behavioral health, and substance use disorder transition planning services. The position addresses transition needs of incarcerated individuals preparing for release, coordinates and advocates for needed services, provides resources, and develops Continuity of Care Plans that assist patients with significant physical and/or mental disorders in their transition back to the community.
A COMPLETED APPLICATION PACKET WILL INCLUDE:
A detailed resume
A cover letter
* Three professional references
Applications will be reviewed as they are received. The hiring authority reserves the right to offer the position at any time during the recruitment process. It is to the applicant's advantage to apply as early as possible.
Duties
Conduct release planning for incarcerated individuals who have healthcare follow up needs:
Identify transition needs for incarcerated individuals and assist with identification of community resources as needed.
Complete Reentry Needs Assessment, healthcare related reentry facilitation, and Health Services Reentry Plan.
Conduct reentry groups and forums as assigned/appropriate based on setting.
Set follow-up medical and mental health services in the community.
Contact and coordinate services with other agencies including Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) and DSHS Home and Community Services (HCS).
Coordinate care with the Managed Care Organization (MCO).
Attend Multidisciplinary Facility Risk Management Team (MDT/FRMT) meetings.
Participate in case conferences with the primary therapist, psychiatric provider, primary care provider, Reentry/Discharge Nurse and/or pharmacy as needed in preparation for release.
Provide education about Narcan administration.
Facilitate Durable Medical Equipment (DME) necessary for immediate support at release.
Document all contacts with patients per policy.
Respond to kites and other correspondence.
Input OMNI encounters.
Cross coverage for other PSW locations as needed based on caseloads.
Facilitate Affordable Care Act (ACA), Transitions Outreach ABD Program (TOAP) /Expedited Medical Eligibility (EME), and/or Reentry Community Services Program (RCS-P) services prior to release:
Offer assistance in completion of all documentation needed for the ACA application process.
Complete the EME application for identified incarcerated individuals (both residential and outpatient), request Behavioral Health Discharge Summary from Psychologist 4 and follow TOAP procedures.
Participate in multi-disciplinary team meetings and assist as needed for RCS cases.
Understand the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) process and communicate resource information.
Coordinate with DSHS Home and Community Services.
Participate in networking and information sharing with various community stakeholders.
Other transition and continuity of care duties as assigned:
* Support medical and mental health staff by coordinating medical surrogacy/legal guardianship when needed.
Qualifications
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Must be able to obtain and maintain status as an Agency Affiliated Counselor through the Washington State Department of Health or possess a current, valid WA Social Work license. In addition, SW licensure/credential must be maintained in good standing at all times in order to perform their SW duties. Each SW is responsible for adhering to the legal, educational and ethical requirements for maintaining their professional credentials.
Incumbent must apply for agency affiliated counselor license within 7 days of hire. An Agency Affiliated Counselor may only provide counseling services as part of his or her employment for a recognized agency. Applicants for an Agency Affiliated Counselor credential who apply within 7 days of employment may provide services within the agency for up to 60 days while the Department of Health processes your application.
* Must have a current, valid Driver’s License.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
A master’s degree in social work from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and one to two years of postgraduate experience providing professional case management services, discharge/release planning and/or professional counseling services (i.e. individual/group, crisis intervention, psychoeducational) to adults with severe and persistent mental illness, criminal/violent behavior and/or chemical dependency issues.
Current, valid Washington state social worker license.
* 3 to 4 years’ experience providing professional case management services, discharge/release planning and or professional counseling services (i.e. individual group, crisis intervention, psychoeducational) to adults with severe and persistent mental illness, criminal/violent behavior and chemical dependency issues.
Supplemental Information
- Mission: The mission of DOC is to improve public safety by positively changing lives.
- Our Vision: Working together for safer communities.
- Our Commitment: To operate a safe and humane corrections system and partner with others to transform lives for a better Washington.
- Our Core Values:
- Cultivate an environment of integrity and trust: Corrections values partnership and trust. We foster openness and support courageous conversations. We are committed to doing what we say we are going to do by being accountable and taking personal ownership in our actions.
- Respectful and inclusive interactions: Corrections appreciates and values individuals by promoting an inclusive and diverse environment, which encourages safety. We respect, value, and listen to the thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of our stakeholders and consider the impact on those we serve as well as each other.
- People's safety: Corrections believes in creating an environment that values physical, mental, and emotional security and well-being. We honor those who advance safety for all.
- Positivity in words and actions: At Corrections, we assume positive intentions and believe there is a shared desire for the best outcome. We consistently demonstrate positive behavior and always put forth our best effort.
- Supporting people's success: Corrections is committed to our community – understanding individuals, instilling hope, embracing change, and providing opportunities.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
* Please include a minimum of three (3) professional references with your application. A professional reference is defined as an individual who has been paid to supervise your work and can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job competencies. If you do not have any or sufficient professional references, please include non-related professionals, such as educators or other professional associates.
Please note: Phone number AND email address are required for all professional references.
- A background check including criminal record history will be conducted prior to a new hire. 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 position.
- Employees may work directly with or near incarcerated individuals in a potentially hazardous setting. Please consider this when deciding whether to apply.
- We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free work environment, and our employees are expected to comply with all state and federal laws. A pre-employment drug test may be administered as part of the selection process, and applicants who test positive for any controlled substances will be disqualified from consideration.
- Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) is an aerosol pepper spray made available as a means of self-defense and/or de-escalation. Applicants with sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure they could expect in this position.
- Animal care projects are a common component of most Washington State prisons, including dog and cat programs. Applicants with animal sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure they could expect in this position.
- Tuberculosis (TB) is a priority health issue for DOC employees. The successful candidate may be required to provide valid proof of a baseline TB skin test within 60 days from the date of hire. When positive tests result, further information, testing and treatment will also be required. Employment is not contingent upon test results.
- This position may be represented by a bargaining unit.
- Requires respirator medical evaluation questionnaire, fit testing, training, and use of respiratory protection as required by the WA Industrial Safety & Act standards. Refer to WAC 296-842 to learn more.
- Must be able to work in spaces, climb stairs, walk long distances, and frequently lift up to 30 pounds. Under rare circumstances this position may be required to lift or carry up to 50 pounds and push up to 100 pounds.
- Foreign equivalent degrees awarded outside the United States must have a credential evaluation report attached to your application. You may request the required evaluation/documentation from www.wes.org and www.aice-eval.org. Until this documentation is provided, you will not be selected to move forward in the hiring process.
- DOC complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements for the federal employment eligibility verification form I-9. The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States consistent with the requirements of that form.
- DOC does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT).
What We Offer:
As an employee of the Department of Corrections, your work-life integration is a priority. Washington State employees are offered one of the most inclusive and competitive benefits packages in the nation. Besides comprehensive family insurance for medical, dental, and vision, these perks also may include:
Salary is based on experience and is determined at the time a final offer of employment is made. The salary range listed in the job posting includes Steps A-M. Step M is a longevity step and is typically gained six years after being assigned to Step L in your permanent salary range.
Up to 25 paid vacation days a year
8 hours of paid sick leave per month
12 paid holidays a year
Generous retirement plan
Flex Spending Accounts
Dependent Care Assistance
Deferred Compensation and so much more!
DOC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, honorably discharged veteran, veteran status, genetic information, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability.
For questions about this recruitment, or to request reasonable accommodation in the application process, please email nicholas.epps@doc1.wa.gov or call at 509.710.4890.
For TTY service, please call the Washington Relay Service at 7-1-1 or 1.800.833.6388.
See all 9+ Psychiatric Social Worker jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Psychiatric Social Worker Jobs
Target healthcare systems with existing H-1B programs
Large hospital networks and integrated health systems already sponsor mental health professionals regularly. Research employers like Kaiser Permanente, Mayo Clinic, and university medical centers that have established visa sponsorship processes for clinical roles.
Emphasize your specialized mental health training
USCIS requires specialty occupation documentation. Highlight your MSW degree, clinical licensure requirements, and specialized training in psychiatric social work. This demonstrates the role requires specific educational qualifications beyond general social work.
Research state licensing requirements early
Most states require clinical social work licensure for psychiatric roles. Start the licensing process early since some states require supervised experience. Employers are more likely to sponsor candidates who understand state-specific requirements.
Consider underserved area opportunities
Federally Qualified Health Centers and rural hospitals in Health Professional Shortage Areas often have strong incentives to hire international mental health professionals. These settings may offer additional visa support or alternative pathways.
Document your clinical experience thoroughly
Prepare detailed documentation of your psychiatric social work experience, including types of disorders treated and therapeutic modalities used. This evidence supports the specialty occupation requirement and demonstrates your qualifications for clinical roles.
Network through professional mental health organizations
Join the National Association of Social Workers and state clinical social work associations. These organizations often have job boards and networking events where you can connect with employers familiar with international hiring.
Psychiatric Social Worker jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
Find Psychiatric Social Worker JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Does psychiatric social work qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B visas?
Yes, psychiatric social work typically qualifies as a specialty occupation because it requires specialized knowledge in mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. You need at least a Master of Social Work degree with clinical training, which meets the specialized education requirement for H-1B eligibility.
What degree requirements do employers expect for visa sponsorship?
Employers typically require an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program for psychiatric social worker sponsorship. Some positions may accept related master's degrees in counseling or psychology, but MSW degrees provide the strongest foundation for both visa approval and state licensing requirements.
How do state licensing requirements affect visa sponsorship opportunities?
Most states require clinical licensure for psychiatric social work roles. Employers prefer candidates who can obtain licensure quickly, as unlicensed workers have limited practice scope. Research state-specific requirements and start the licensing process early to make yourself more attractive to sponsoring employers.
How to find Psychiatric Social Worker jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Psychiatric Social Worker jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international candidates with sponsoring employers. Focus on healthcare systems, hospitals, mental health facilities, and government health departments that commonly sponsor H-1B, O-1, or EB-3 visas for qualified psychiatric social workers. These employers often have ongoing staffing needs and established sponsorship processes.
Which healthcare employers are most likely to sponsor psychiatric social workers?
Large hospital systems, integrated health networks, university medical centers, and community mental health centers have the highest sponsorship rates. These employers often face staffing shortages in behavioral health and have established processes for sponsoring international mental health professionals through H-1B and other visa categories.
Can psychiatric social workers qualify for alternative visa categories beyond H-1B?
Yes, experienced psychiatric social workers may qualify for O-1 visas if they have extraordinary ability demonstrated through publications, awards, or leadership roles. Some may also qualify for EB-2 National Interest Waivers if working in underserved areas or contributing to public health initiatives addressing mental health workforce shortages.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Psychiatric Social Worker jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.
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