Description

Type: Part-Time roles 

Reports to: Helpline Supervisor

Shift: Multiple schedules available, all between 9 am - 8pm; Monday - Friday and Weekends (Saturday and Sunday)

Office Location: 1801 W. Warner, Suite 202, Chicago IL; in-office and hybrid working options available (hybrid work policy subject to change)

Background:

Guided by the experiences of those living with mental health conditions and rooted in equity, NAMI Chicago educates to fight stigma and discrimination, fiercely advocates for our community, and shares hope, connection and expertise with people on their mental health journey.

Who We Are Looking For:  

The NAMI Helpline provides information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition, their family members and caregivers, mental health providers and the public. The Bilingual Helpline Specialist supports NAMI Chicago’s mission and is a strong problem solver with the ability to think on their feet, is empathetic and approachable and has an understanding and experience with the mental health system and crisis intervention.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities: 

• Demonstrate sensitivity and empathy regarding human service issues. Project a non-judgmental attitude towards those requiring assistance 
• Answer and provide appropriate assistance for information/referral calls following policies and procedures
• Answer and provide appropriate intervention for crisis/suicide calls following policies and procedures
• Identify previous callers and provide appropriate action items based on their past calls and profile
• Complete follow-up calls in accordance with policies and procedures
• Assist in problem-solving and navigating issues as they arise on the Helpline 
• Assisting the caller with navigating and becoming comfortable accessing and participating in natural community supports.
• Enter updated information on resources into the iCarol database, as needed.
• Share their recovery story as relevant to the caller to assist them in their own recovery, only as applicable and appropriate.
• Contact Helpline Manager or Helpline Supervisors as necessary
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrates ability to well serve underrepresented and vulnerable populations, including social and racial/ethnic minorities as well as those living with mental illnesses and/or substance use disorders
• Proven record of success working in a diverse environment that includes people of different identities, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender and physical/mental ability
• Exhibits sensitivity, empathy regarding human service issues and projects a non-judgmental attitude towards those requiring assistance
• Excellent listening skills
• Critical Thinker

Qualifications & Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in social service field or equivalent experience. Master’s Degree, LCSW or LCPC preferred.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Prior experience with the mental health system and crisis situations.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish
• Proficiency in Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office, and database management.

Available Benefits: 

• Compensation begins at $21.00 per hour
• Company sponsored wellness activities

NAMI Chicago is an inclusive employer, we welcome and encourage BIPOC, LGBTQ , Veterans, Differently Abled, Returning Citizens and All Who Are Dedicated to Mental Health to Apply.