Penn State University·University Park, Pennsylvania
The Mental Health Clinician provides comprehensive clinical mental health services, including individual, group, and crisis counseling for student-athletes. They also serve as a point person for athletic teams, consult with staff, and manage care coordination with sports medicine and psychiatric providers.
Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential clinical records in compliance with university, state, and federal laws.
Program
Support: Participate in an after-hours on-call rotation and assist with the supervision or mentorship of interns and trainees as needed.
Required
Skills &
Abilities: Strong clinical skills in assessment, mental health counseling, and crisis management. Understanding of college athletics culture and the unique needs of the athlete population. Strong organizational skills to handle multiple team needs independently. A solid understanding of boundaries and professional ethics. Ability to problem-solve, handle sensitive information and nuanced situations. Ability to work independently and as a member of a multidisciplinary interdepartmental team. Able to communicate well and build rapport quickly with students, coaches, and staff and use high level discretion. Able to demonstrate the ability to work well with a diverse group of clients.
Educational/Certification
Requirements: Master's degree (or higher) in Counseling or related discipline.
Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, or related discipline or has the ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
Experience (can include an internship) providing mental health counseling and performance enhancement services to athletes, preferably in a university or college counseling center setting. Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) credential or progress toward it. Experience with specialty areas such as substance misuse and disordered eating. Experience working in competitive athletic environments. MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS If filled as Mental Health Counselor - Senior Professional, this position requires: Master's Degree 6+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors If filled as Mental Health Counselor - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Master's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $59,580.00 - $94,980.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here. EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines
Candidates must hold a Master's degree in Counseling or a related discipline and possess or be eligible for licensure as a Professional Counselor or Clinical Social Worker. The role requires relevant experience in mental health counseling, with preference given to those with experience in university athletic environments.
Market context
In Pennsylvania, mental health clinician roles are typically in steady demand across schools, universities, and community settings, especially for candidates with licensure or clear licensure eligibility. These positions are competitive because employers often look for a master’s degree, relevant counseling experience, and familiarity with university or similar behavioral health environments. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit, then confirm your licensure path and tailor your application to the setting most aligned with your experience.