Mental Health Therapist

• Mental Health Therapist – Youth Behavioral Health
• Location: Ocala, Florida - Silver Springs Youth Academy
• Job Type: Full-Time
• Pay: $50,000 - $55,000 per year

About Youth Opportunity & Silver Springs Youth Academy (Ocala, FL)

Youth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at-risk youth. Silver Springs Youth Academy in Ocala, Florida, is a 72-bed secure Youth Academy serving males ages 13 to 17 with mental health and substance abuse treatment needs.

The center integrates clinical therapy, education, restorative justice, therapeutic recreation, and life skills training.

Youth typically stay 6 to 9 months, engaging in individual, family, and group therapy; victim impact awareness; pre-vocational preparation; and enrichment activities such as art, music, and recreation.

Small group living units and licensed dietitian-managed nutrition promote emotional stabilization and successful community reintegration.

Position Summary – Mental Health Therapist Job in Ocala, Florida

We are hiring a Mental Health Therapist to join our clinical team in Hastings, Florida. This role is ideal for a therapist interested in youth behavioral health, juvenile care, or residential treatment. You will provide direct clinical care, support mental health needs, and assist in stabilizing youth throughout their treatment process.

• Mental Health Therapist Job Benefits
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with up to 4% employer match with Immediate Vesting
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays – Earn 4 hours of PTO every pay period
• Free RX delivery on most medications
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development
• Robust Employee Assistance Program
• Supportive, mission-driven work environment

Why Join Youth Opportunity?

• Be part of a team making a difference in the lives of vulnerable youth
• Gain experience in a growing field of youth mental health and residential care
• Work in a secure, structured, and supportive treatment environment
• Develop your skills through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities
• Mental Health Therapist Responsibilities
• Coordinate the implementation of individualized mental health and substance abuse treatment plans
• Provide ongoing evaluation, assessment, and counseling to youth and their families under supervision of a licensed mental health professional
• Deliver individual, group, and family therapy sessions
• Document clinical progress through weekly notes, treatment plans, and aftercare plans
• Develop behavioral health discharge and aftercare plans
• Assess family dynamics and create intervention plans
• Collaborate with leadership to support compliance and performance improvement initiatives
• Additional Duties
• Participate in daily group routines and activities with youth and counselors
• Model professional behavior and maintain high standards for youth engagement
• Attend required training and professional development sessions
• Report incidents and concerns per agency policy
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

Master’s degree in counseling, social work, psychology, rehabilitation, or related human services field from an accredited university

Two years’ experience working with children with serious emotional disturbances or substance abuse preferred but not required with appropriate degree

Ability to pass background check and drug screen

Preferred Experience

• Experience with group therapy techniques
• Strong clinical judgment and organizational skills
• Willingness to work with youth in challenging situations

Other Requirements

Physical Demands: Must be in good physical health and emotionally stable. Able to move throughout the facility and actively participate in youth activities. Must be able to transport youth or staff. Free of communicable diseases as defined by the state.

Other: Must maintain a valid state driver’s license and meet state criminal background check requirements. Occasional irregular hours may be required.

How to Apply

Click “Apply Now” through Indeed to submit your application. Or visit youthopportunity.com to learn more about our mission and career opportunities.

Youth Opportunity is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Location: Ocala, Florida

Department: Clinical Services

Employment Type: Full-Time

Compensation

$50,000 - $55,000/yr