PER DIEM SCHOOL-BASED THERAPIST

Transforming student mental health in schools. 

About Effective School Solutions 

Effective School Solutions (ESS) is a leading provider of school-based mental health services, serving 6,000+ K–12 students across 12 states. 

We deliver the level of clinical care typically found in private practice, out-of-district placements, or higher levels of care directly within public schools- providing a full continuum of clinical programming, professional development, and district consultation. 

Position Type: Per Diem 

This is a per diem position and is not eligible for benefits. Per diem clinicians support ESS on an as-needed basis, including coverage for leave assignments (e.g., medical or maternity leave). 

Clinicians in this role have flexibility in their level of commitment. They may choose to pick up occasional shifts, work a few days per week on an ongoing basis, or take on a temporary full-time schedule when covering a longer-term leave assignment. Per diem clinicians can accept or decline assignments based on their availability. 

This role does not follow a consistent full-time schedule; however, full-time hours may be required on a temporary basis when covering extended leave assignments. 

Why This Role Matters 

You’ll provide critical mental health support to students who may not otherwise have access to care—helping them succeed academically, build resilience, and thrive. 

At ESS, clinicians are trusted partners in shaping supportive school environments. 

Responsibilities 

Direct Clinical Care & Family Support 

• Provide comprehensive, school-based mental health services, including individual, group, and family therapy, as well as intake, diagnostic, and clinical assessments 
• Partner with families and facilitate parent support programming 
• Conduct risk assessments and crisis intervention, ensuring student safety and coordinating referrals to appropriate levels of care when needed 
• Develop and implement individualized, evidence-based treatment plans that support students’ emotional, behavioral, and academic success  

Training & Collaboration 

• Oversee the day-to-day clinical operations of the assigned school-based program 
• Serve as the primary clinical point of contact for school partners, providing expert guidance, ensuring alignment on student support strategies, and fostering strong, collaborative relationships. 
• Facilitate weekly consultation sessions to ensure alignment on student goals and documentation standards
• Collaborate with families, school staff, and interdisciplinary teams to deliver coordinated care, and provide consultation, coaching, and training on mental health and trauma-informed practices
• Participate in team meetings, supervision, and ongoing professional development  

Documentation, Compliance & Professional Expectations 

• Maintain timely, accurate clinical documentation in accordance with regulatory, ethical, and organizational standards 
• Uphold professional standards by maintaining active licensure, ethical practice, reliability, and a strong professional presence 
• Monitor program performance and ensure alignment with ESS clinical and operational standards

Qualifications 

• Master’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, or a related field  
• Active associate number or clinical license (e.g., AMFT, APCC, ACSW or LMFT, LPCC, LCSW) in the state of California 
• 2+ years of experience working with children and/or adolescents with behavioral and emotional needs  
• Experience providing training and coaching to educational professionals and parents/caregivers on student mental health issues.  
• Experience working with schools, families, and community-based services 
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain trusting relationships with students, families, and school staff 
• Commitment to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care and advocating for best practices 
• Proven ability to positively influence, motivate, and elevate team members and stakeholders 
• Ability to make confident, sound decisions in ambiguous or evolving situations 
• Proficient in clinical documentation and use of electronic systems (e.g., EMR, Microsoft Office), with the ability to maintain accurate and timely records  

Why Clinicians Choose ESS 

✔ School-day schedule — No weekends or on-call requirements; occasional evening hours as needed to support family engagement 
✔ Light summers — 10 hours/week for 5 weeks with full-time pay 
✔ Small caseloads 
✔ Ongoing supervision, clinical support, and free CEUs 
✔ Competitive salary + comprehensive benefits 
✔ Clinical leadership at the heart of our company  

Make a meaningful impact on student mental health.  Join Effective School Solutions  

Equal Opportunity Employer 
ESS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, veteran status, disability, or any other federal, state, or local protected class. 

#HP

Be Part of the Solution at Effective School Solutions (ESS) 

At Effective School Solutions, we’re redefining what school-based mental health can look like — balancing meaningful impact with professional stability and personal well-being. 

We offer: Clinician Supervision | School-Day Schedule (no evenings or weekends) | Light Summers (10hr/wk for 5 weeks) | Competitive Pay and Benefits | Small Caseloads | A Collaborative Culture that values your growth and well-being. 

About Effective School Solutions: 
Effective School Solutions (ESS) is a leading provider of school-based mental health services for K–12 students. Serving over 6,000 students across 12 states, ESS brings the level of clinical care typically found in private practice settings directly into public schools. In response to the growing mental health needs of young people, ESS has expanded its offerings to include a full continuum of clinical programming, professional development, and consultative services for districts. 

What You Can Expect 

• Ongoing, multi-layered support from Regional Directors, clinical supervisors, and your school team. 

• Extensive training in ESS’s evidence-based, school-focused model of care. 

• A stable, school-based schedule with no intensive travel or unpredictable hours. 

About the Role 

ESS is seeking a School-Based Therapist in Santa Maria, California. This therapist will provide therapeutic services to a small group of students with emotional and behavioral challenges, supporting their social, emotional, and academic growth. 

You’ll collaborate with school staff and families to create safe, trauma-attuned environments that promote lasting stability for students 

Key Responsibilities 

• Deliver individual, group, and family therapy aligned with ESS’s trauma-informed approach. 

• Coordinate care and referrals to appropriate community services. 

• Collaborate with school administration, teachers, and ESS teams to support student success. 

• Maintain accurate clinical documentation and participate in regular team meetings. 

• Engage families through programming and parent support groups as needed. 

Qualifications 

• 2+ years of experience working with children/adolescents with behavioral or emotional challenges. 

• Active associate number (ASW, AMFT, APCC) or full clinical license (LCSW, LMFT, LPCC) in California. 

• Strong communication, collaboration, and documentation skills. 

• Experience in school-based or youth mental health settings preferred. 

• Proficient with Microsoft Office and electronic medical record systems. 

Why Join ESS 

• Make a real difference addressing the youth mental health crisis in schools. 

• Join a mission-driven organization with strong growth and innovation. 

• Enjoy school-year schedules and light summers. 

• Competitive compensation, benefits, and professional development opportunities. 

• A culture that values clinician voice and work-life balance. 

Be part of the solution. Be part of ESS. 

The starting salary range for this position is $80,000 - $90,000 yearly 

ESS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.

#HP