[2026-2027] School-Based Therapist

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, CA. 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 (ACSW, AMFT, APCC) or 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

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