Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP) Intern Perform professional psychological work in assessment, behavior management, and counseling for students with emotional disabilities, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. Assess the psychological and psycho-educational needs of students referred to special education services.
Education/Certification:- Enrollment in a graduate program leading to licensure as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (School Psychology, Educational Psychology, or related field) from an accredited university
- Completion of required coursework, allowing the candidate to serve as an LSSP Intern under supervision (per Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists requirements)
- Valid LSSP Intern status or eligibility to obtain LSSP Intern credentials through the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC)
- Ability to work under the supervision of a fully licensed LSSP in accordance with state regulations
- Knowledge of special education law and procedures, including IDEA, FAPE, evaluation timelines, and ARD/IEP processes
- Strong organizational and communication skills, including collaboration with campus staff, parents, and ARD committees
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with ethical and professional standards
- Preferred (but not required): Prior practicum or internship experience in a public-school setting
- Special Knowledge/Skills:
- Knowledge of procedures for assessing achievement and intellectual, emotional, and behavioral functioning for educational purposes
- Knowledge of prevention and intervention strategies, including behavior management interventions
- Knowledge of psycho-social development
- Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
Experience:
Experience or training in psychoeducational evaluations, behavior assessments, and report writing (supervised)
Major Responsibilities and Duties: Assessment:
- Select and administer assessments and observations to evaluate the intellectual, emotional, and behavioral functioning of referred students. Determine student eligibility for special education services according to federal and state regulations.
- Develop psychological evaluation reports and behavior management plans.
- Conduct or participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with appropriate placement and development of Individual Education Plans (IEP) for students according to district procedures.
- Consultation:
- Meet with parents to discuss pertinent background information and test results. Conduct group, individual, and family counseling sessions and facilitative therapy for students with diagnosed problems.
- Consult with teachers and relevant staff concerning the educational needs of students, interpretation of assessment data, and implementation of behavior intervention plans in managing disruptive students.
- Consult with psychologists, psychiatrists, medical doctors, and community agencies concerning intellectual, emotional, and behavioral functioning of students as needed.
- Present staff development training in assigned schools to enable school personnel to identify and work more effectively with students with emotional, social, and behavioral disturbances.
- Program Management:
- Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of psychological services and assessment procedures and make changes based on findings.
- Participate in the selection of assessment materials and equipment.
- Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents required, including case records, test results, statistical data, and test inventories.
- Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy. Comply with all district and local campus routines and regulations.
- Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:
- Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including computer and peripherals
- Posture: Frequent sitting, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
- Motion: Frequent walking, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension
- Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds), occasional heaving lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities; controlling behavior through physical restraint; assisting non-ambulatory students
- Environment: Exposure to biological hazards, bacteria, and communicable diseases; may require districtwide travel
- Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under pressure
