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Competency Restoration Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Engagement Specialist

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$19.41 - $20.44/hr

The specialist provides outreach and engagement services with the purpose of increasing referrals and participant engagement in the Outpatient Competency Restoration Program (OCRP). This position ...

State of Missouri

Psychiatrist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

... specialists to restore patients to competency. Qualifications - All you need for success Board-certified or board-eligible adult psychiatrist. Job Details - More reasons to love this position You ...

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Competency Restoration Specialist information

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How much do competency restoration specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for competency restoration specialist in the United States is $22.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Competency Restoration Specialist vs Forensic Mental Health Technician?

AspectCompetency Restoration SpecialistForensic Mental Health Technician
Required CredentialsOften requires a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or related field; certification may be preferredTypically requires a high school diploma or associate degree; some roles may require certification
Work EnvironmentWorks in correctional facilities, mental health hospitals, or forensic settings assisting in restoring legal competencyWorks in forensic or mental health facilities supporting patient care and safety
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by correctional and mental health institutions focusing on legal competency restorationEmployed in forensic mental health settings, hospitals, or clinics

While both roles operate within forensic mental health settings, the Competency Restoration Specialist primarily focuses on restoring legal competency through specialized interventions, often requiring higher education and certification. The Forensic Mental Health Technician provides general support and patient care in forensic environments, typically with less formal education requirements.

What are the main challenges Competency Restoration Specialists face when working with clients in legal or clinical settings?

Competency Restoration Specialists often work with individuals who may have complex mental health needs, limited legal understanding, or resistance to treatment. A key challenge is building rapport and trust with clients who may be reluctant or anxious about legal proceedings. Specialists must also balance the need to provide therapeutic interventions with the requirements of the legal system, often working in multidisciplinary teams that include attorneys, psychologists, and correctional staff. Adapting educational materials to each client's cognitive level and maintaining engagement are essential for success in this role.

What are Competency Restoration Specialists?

Competency Restoration Specialists are professionals who work with individuals deemed incompetent to stand trial, helping them regain the mental capacity needed to participate in legal proceedings. They typically provide education on legal processes, support treatment for mental health conditions, and use therapeutic interventions to restore a client's understanding of court procedures. Competency Restoration Specialists often work in hospitals, jails, community settings, or specialized restoration programs. Their role is crucial in ensuring that individuals receive fair treatment in the justice system while addressing their mental health needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Competency Restoration Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Competency Restoration Specialist, you need a background in psychology, social work, or a related field, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience working with individuals with mental health or cognitive challenges. Familiarity with treatment planning, legal documentation, and behavioral intervention tools is important, and some positions may require specialized certifications in mental health or forensic settings. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to communicate complex legal and clinical concepts clearly are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure effective support for clients in restoring legal competency, promoting successful court outcomes, and safeguarding the rights of vulnerable individuals.
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Competency Restoration Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Competency Restoration Specialist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,241 per year, or $22.7 per hour.
Community Counselor- AOC Restoration - Tempe, AZ (Open Hearts - Tempe)

Community Counselor- AOC Restoration - Tempe, AZ (Open Hearts - Tempe)

intermountain

Tempe, AZ

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

The Juvenile Competency Restoration Specialist provides court-ordered restoration education services to youth who have been found incompetent to proceed in court. The Restoration Specialist delivers structured educational services designed to help juveniles understand legal proceedings, develop the ability to assist counsel, and regain competency in accordance with Arizona statutes and Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) standards.

The Restoration Specialist works collaboratively with the assigned Mental Health Expert (MHE), probation officers, and families to implement individualized restoration education plans and support youth engagement throughout the restoration process.

Essential Job Duties

Service Delivery

· Provide competency restoration education services to juveniles a minimum of two times per week in person or via secure video conferencing in accordance with AOC standards.

· Utilize the Juvenile Mental Competency Restoration Handbook as a guide for teaching competency concepts including courtroom roles, legal procedures, and the ability to assist legal counsel.

· Deliver instruction using developmentally appropriate and trauma-informed teaching methods.

Restoration Planning

· Participate in initial consultation with the assigned Mental Health Expert (MHE) within five (5) business days of referral.

· Review the court competency evaluation report and collaborate with the MHE to identify competency deficits.

· Develop individualized Restoration Education Plans that address specific competency areas and learning needs.

· Update restoration plans every 90 days or as clinically indicated.

Youth Engagement

· Establish rapport with youth and utilize strategies that support engagement, motivation, and learning.

· Adapt instructional methods to meet the youth’s developmental stage, cultural background, cognitive ability, and learning style.

· Promote youth participation and reinforce understanding of court processes.


Documentation

· Document all services in the electronic health record (MyAvatar) within 24 hours of service delivery.

· Progress notes must include:

o Service modality (telemedicine or in-person)

o Youth location

o Competencies addressed

o Youth engagement

o Plan for next session

o Barriers to progress

o Prognosis and anticipated discharge date

· Maintain records of attendance, restoration plans, consultations, and progress notes in accordance with AOC documentation standards.

Consultation

· Participate in ongoing consultation with the MHE at least every fourteen (14) calendar days.

· Discuss youth progress, barriers to competency, and probability of restoration.

Safety and Crisis Response

· Develop a Crisis Plan during the initial session with the youth and family.

· Utilize de-escalation techniques and follow agency safety protocols when behavioral escalation occurs.

Collaboration

· Coordinate with probation officers, families, and community providers as needed to support youth progress.

· Assist youth and families in accessing community-based resources when appropriate.

Compliance

· Ensure all services comply with AOC Service Specifications, Arizona statutes (ARS § 8-291.01 through 8-291.11), and confidentiality laws.

Required Qualifications

· Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university

· Valid Arizona Teaching Certificate

· Experience working with adolescents, preferably justice-involved youth

· Knowledge of adolescent development and behavioral health principles

· Ability to deliver educational instruction in structured and engaging formats

· Ability to maintain professional documentation and confidentiality standards


Preferred Qualifications

· Experience working with court-involved youth

· Training in trauma-informed care

· Experience in behavioral health, education, or juvenile justice settings

· Knowledge of competency restoration principles

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