The Department of Health Services (DHS), Mendota Mental Health Institute (MMHI)  is currently recruiting for two (2) Art Therapists. These positions may be filled at the Therapist or Therapist-Senior level based on the selected candidate’s qualifications.

Work hours will consist of day shifts and occasional evenings.

This is a re-announcement. If you previously applied, you won’t need to reapply.

MMHI is located on the north side of Madison and offers a beautiful campus environment, convenient free parking and an onsite workout facility. MMHI is an inpatient psychiatric facility, with one outpatient program, specializing in serving patients with complex psychiatric conditions, often combined with certain problem behaviors. A secure setting to meet the legal and behavioral needs of our patients is provided. MMHI is an integral part of the entire Wisconsin mental health service delivery system.

MMHI is part of the Division of Care and Treatment Services (DCTS). DCTS is committed to helping all state residents live their best lives through an interconnected web of behavioral health services. Watch this video to learn more about the work of DCTS.

As an employee of the State of Wisconsin, you'll also have access to an amazing benefits package, including:

• 3.5 weeks of vacation, 9 paid holidays and ample sick time. 
• Top rated health plan options starting at $42/month for single plans and $104/month for family plans, after 2 months of state service. 
• Premium pension plan with at least a 6.95% employer match in 2025. Plus, a tax advantaged supplemental retirement savings plan which allows you to save money directly from your paycheck for retirement. Use this Total Rewards Calculator to see the total value of our competitive benefits package!  
• Several flex spending accounts: medical, dependent care, commuter, parking and High Deductible Health Savings.
• Well Wisconsin Wellness Program
• A free and confidential employee assistance program that offers employees and their immediate family dependents a variety of tools, resources, and professional consultation services to support their health, goals, and overall well-being.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program employer.

As the Art Therapist, you will:

• Design, coordinate, implement and evaluate the Therapeutic Art Program which includes assessing functional abilities and deficits in independent living skills, leisure skills and social skills through collection and analysis of observed and recorded behavioral data to determine appropriate programming needs and develop and implement treatment plans.
• Participate as a member of the multidisciplinary treatment team.
• Serve as a member of the Rehabilitation Services Department.
• Provide program supervision and scheduling of Art Therapy students.

The starting salary for the Therapist is between $28.00 and $30.00 per hour ($58,200 and $62,400 per year), depending on experience, plus excellent benefits. The pay schedule/range is 11/05.

The starting salary for the Senior level is between $31.00 and $38.00 per hour ($64,400 and $79,000 per year), depending on experience, plus excellent benefits. The pay schedule/range is 11/04.

A 12-month probationary period is required for both levels. Pay for current or former state employees is set based upon the rules that apply to compensation for the applicable transaction.

All applicants will be required to allow DHS to conduct a Caregiver background check to determine whether the circumstances of any convictions may be related to the job being filled.

All appointees will be required to receive a TB test, which will be administered by the facility or medical personnel directed by the facility within 30 days of the start date.

DHS does not sponsor work visas for this position, thus, in compliance with federal law, selected candidates will be required to verify eligibility to work in the United States by completing the required I-9 form upon hire.

Minimally qualified applicants will have the following:

• Registration or provisional registration as an Art Therapist (ATR). If not already registered, you must obtain your ATR by the time you complete your 12-month probation with MMHI. Requirements to become registered:
• Have at least 2 years of supervision by a Board-Certified Art Therapist AND
• Have already obtained a degree in Art Therapy

Well-qualified applicants will also have one or more of the following:

• Experience working as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience providing art therapy services.
• Experience working with adolescent or adult patients with behavior issues and/or psychiatric needs.
• Experience using techniques to analyze and evaluate behavior change and treatment effectiveness.
• Board Certified as an Art Therapist in the State of Wisconsin.

For tips on developing your resume and what should be included, click here.

Applying is easy! Click “Apply for Job” to start the application process.  Sign in to your account or click “Register Now” to create an account before applying for the job. Follow the steps outlined in the application process and submit your application.

Helpful Information: 

• Once your application is submitted, no changes are allowed. Click “Save” to allow changes to your application as needed before submitting by the deadline. 
• You may want to save a copy of the job posting for referencing after the deadline.
• Please monitor your email for communications related to this position. 
• Current or former permanent, classified, state employees must complete the online application process to be considered. 
• If viewing through an external site, please apply directly at Wisc.Jobs. 
• For technical assistance and general information, please see Frequently Asked Questions. For questions about the position, to request a copy of the full position description, or for other employment inquiries, please contact Rachel Libera in Human Resources at rachel.libera@dhs.wisconsin.gov.

DHS is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer.

Veterans are encouraged to apply. For complete information on veterans’ hiring programs with the WI Department of Veteran’s affairs, click here.

Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled.