Crisis Counselor I

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Washington.

📋 Description

• Deliver crisis intervention, suicide prevention, information, referrals, and brief supportive counseling to individuals reaching out to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline via phone.

• Operate remotely and engage with clients solely through telephone communication.

• Assist clients at risk of suicide by utilizing Lifeline Best Practices.

• Perform comprehensive safety assessments.

• Provide validation and emotional support to those in need.

• Create safety plans tailored to individual client needs.

• Initiate emergency interventions or mandated reporting when required.

• Refer callers to regional crisis lines when suitable.

• Manage client interactions to ensure appropriate, efficient, and effective support.

• Comply with HIPAA confidentiality and mandated reporting requirements, including Emergency Services Interventions, CPS/APS referrals, and Tarasoff Duty to Warn.

• Collaborate with peers and supervisors regarding compliance and imminent-risk matters.

• Accurately, ethically, and efficiently document all client interactions.

• Achieve or surpass established key performance goals and adapt to evolving expectations.

• Utilize current technologies to connect with clients and community members.

• Employ Microsoft Teams for collaboration with peers and supervisors.

• Engage in staff meetings and training sessions.

• Offer backup support to other Regional Crisis Line and 988 programs as needed.

⛳️ Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field is required.

• A minimum of one (1) year of experience in a healthcare contact center and/or in mental health counseling.

• Previous experience in suicide prevention, crisis intervention, and/or mental health information and referral services is preferred.

• Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration is required within 30 days of employment or an equivalent, and must remain active throughout employment.

• Must pass a typing test with a score of 35 WPM or higher.

• Proficiency in English (both spoken and written) is essential.

• Skilled in motivational interviewing techniques and active listening.

• Strong problem-solving and information-gathering skills.

• Excellent communication abilities for clear, accurate, and complete client interactions.

• Capacity to multitask, including talking and typing simultaneously.

• Competence in documenting chart notes in electronic medical records.

• A private and secure home office space with an enclosed room and door if there are cohabitants of any age.

• High-speed internet with a minimum download speed of 100 Mbps and upload speed of 10 Mbps.

• A recent internet speed test result is required as verification.

• A secured wired connection using an ethernet cable is necessary; wireless connections (WiFi) are not acceptable.

• Satellite internet providers such as HughesNet, Starlink, or Visat are not supported.

🏝️ Benefits

• Vacation time up to 200 hours.

• Sick time up to 108.64 hours.

• Competitive salary.

• 9 paid holidays each year plus 2 additional paid floating holidays.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.

• Health Savings Account (HSA).

• Flexible Savings Account (FSA) for medical and dependent care.

• Complimentary Employee Assistance Program.

• 403(b) Retirement Plan with matching contributions.

• Opportunities for Professional Development.