Working within the newly formed integrated wellness framework, Bennington College’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is a holistic, student focused center that provides individual and group counseling and therapy, wellness programming, and community support.  Therapeutic focus is trauma informed with the focus on the development of a non-judgmental, supportive relationship with students. The Counseling and Psychological Services Office is committed to the highest standards of competency in meeting the needs of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including differences of culture, race,  ethnicity, national origin, class, gender identity, gender expression, ability, age, body size, immigrant status, and sexual orientation.

The Director of Counseling and Psychological Services will provide vision, strategic planning, and lead a multidisciplinary team within the Office of Student Life. The Director will provide clinical and administrative supervision, and continuity of care for students on campus and within the larger community. The Director will work in collaboration with the Associate Dean and the Director of Health Services to create and implement collaborative programming. The ideal candidate must be a passionate and innovative leader who will increase student engagement, explore various modalities for increasing accessibility, and define and promote a vision to the college as a whole. The Director of Counseling and Psychological Services oversees a team of 6 clinical/professional staff members and reports to the Associate Dean of Student Life and Director of Integrative Wellness.

Bennington serves a diverse student population inclusive of members of ethnically/racially minoritized, international, LGBTQIA+, and disability communities as well as diverse gender identities, socioeconomic backgrounds, religions, and political beliefs. Our staff and faculty also reflect diverse and intersecting backgrounds and identities. All employees are expected to be respectful and responsive to these differences in the service of building community that promotes student and employee success and community cohesiveness. Each individual (faculty, staff and students) will be accountable for upholding these values. The College’s approach to pluralism and inclusivity—both as fields of inquiry and practice—is to prioritize flexible thought, and to invite the examination of access, value, power, and privilege through its institutional policies and areas of study. We encourage applicants from diverse realms of interest, backgrounds, experience, and accomplishment to apply.

Qualifications

Bennington College seeks candidates who are first and foremost well trained, dedicated, trauma informed therapists with a passion for serving a diverse campus. In addition, successful candidates will have experience in college university counseling, leadership experience, and a passion for program development.

Minimum qualifications include the following:

• A Master’s degree in counseling, social work, or counseling psychology is required; earned doctorate (M.D., Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychiatry, clinical or counseling psychology, counselor education and supervision, or social work is preferred.

• A current license to practice psychology, counseling, or social work; and the ability to be licensed in Vermont within six months of hire. 

• A minimum of 5 years of experience as a licensed clinician in a college or university counseling center or similar setting. Clinical supervisory experience required.

• A history of successive leadership roles with progressively increasing responsibility.

• Experience with crisis management is required. 

• Experience working in college/university counseling centers required.

• Outstanding communications skills and an adherence to ethical standards

• Understanding and appreciation for alternative and non-western approaches to mental and wellness.

• Experience working with and relating to students and a deep dedication to improving the health and well-being of this specific population, with an understanding of confidential and ethical matters within a higher education setting. 

• Strong cultural competency in working with diverse populations and a successful track record addressing issues of equity and inclusion. 

• Excellent managerial leadership skills including the ability to develop and implement strategic objectives, to motivate and develop staff, and to effectively manage resources. 

• Knowledge of local, national, and international issues, trends, and best practice standards in college mental health as well as of national certification and accreditation requirements. 

• Experience with electronic health records. 

The position requires successful completion and acceptable results of a background check. Anticipated start date: July 1, 2024.

The College

Bennington College offers a comprehensive benefits program that includes medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance, retirement, and tuition benefits including Tuition Exchange scholarships. The College also offers an on-site fitness center as well as generous time off benefits.