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Mental Health Counselor I

CRF Behavioral Healthcare
Escondido, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 12/1/2025 CLOSED ON 1/20/2026

What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mental Health Counselor I position at CRF Behavioral Healthcare?

CRF – Celebrating 45 Years of Excellence in Behavioral Health Services in San Diego County!


Hours: Per Diem. Shifts may include days (8:00 am to 4:30 pm), evenings (3:30 pm to Midnight) and/or overnights (Midnight to 8:30 am) - weekdays and/or weekends. This position is an on-site position and requires in-person attendance to perform the essential functions of the job.

Pay Rate: $27.24 to $28.89 per hour plus $3.00 per hour differential for overnight shifts.


Education: Bachelor's degree in a mental health-related field such as Psychology, Social Work, or Counseling required


As a Counselor I, you will:

  • Depending on years of experience, may assist with initial behavioral health assessment of new clients.
  • Provide individual contacts, group, and milieu psychosocial behavior health services and activities for clients within scope of practice.
  • Act as admission coordinator and/or team lead, if designated.
  • Assist clients with discharge planning and conducts care coordination. Works closely with various providers in the region or system to facilitate access to services.
  • Consult and coordinate with family and/or support system regarding client treatment and discharge planning.
  • Conduct crisis intervention and risk assessment. First responder to intervene in crises when needed and indicated at the program in order to ensure the safety of clients and staff.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

  • 4 years of experience working with a mental health population, especially with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness and co-occurring disorders is strongly preferred
  • First Aid/CPR certification is required and must be kept current during employment; can be obtained prior to starting work
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment is essential
  • Ability to work independently, self-directed and highly organized
  • Proficient computer skills, including MS Office
  • A valid California driver’s license in good standing, proof of insurance and eligibility to be an approved CRF driver is required to fulfill the essential functions of this position
  • Ability to pass criminal/background clearance

CRF inspires and mentors the next generation of mental health professionals!

Our Crisis Centers are Short Term Acute Residential Treatment (START) programs (Del Sur Crisis Center, Esperanza Crisis Center, Halcyon Crisis Center, Jary Barreto Crisis Center, New Vistas Crisis Center, Turning Point Crisis Center and Vista Balboa Crisis) that provide intensive, community-based crisis residential services for adults throughout San Diego County. They deliver a unique alternative to psychiatric hospitalization to clients who are experiencing a psychiatric crisis of such magnitude so as not to be manageable on an outpatient basis. Their services are provided in a home-like environment that specializes in the psychosocial rehabilitation of each individual.

CRF staff members work together to meet the needs of San Diego County's residents who are experiencing mental/behavioral health challenges. We offer a diverse, inclusive workplace that fosters personal growth and development. You will work within a collaborative, supportive team structure, learn new ways to provide optimal supports to your clients and help people change their lives for the better!


We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

If you need assistance completing the application, please send an email to CRFCareers@comresearch.org

Counselor I

Salary : $27 - $29

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