Designated Crisis Responder

Basic Job Purpose/Function

Designated Crisis Responder/Therapist- Behavioral Health - Goldendale, WA. - Full-time, Non-Exempt. Grade 69, Step 1-5, $31.44 to $35.39/Hr, DOQ, Open until Filled.

Under direct supervision of the Behavioral Health Manager the Designated Crisis Responder (DCR) provides intervention and support to individuals who are experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis. They take calls requesting crisis services and travel out to locations identified by the program management to provide crisis assessments, determine what level of treatment is needed to stabilize the situation, and make arrangements for hospital placements or outpatient treatment as appropriate. The goal is to stabilize the crisis using the least restrictive setting possible, while ensuring the safety of the individual in crisis as well as the community. This role requires working closely with emergency responders, law enforcement, and other community partners to coordinate care. The DCR position offers the opportunity to work both collaboratively and independently, have significantly varied workdays, and use creativity to resolve problems. This position has a set weekly schedule of three 12 hours shifts with 4 hours administrative time each week to total 40 hours a week. Shifts will vary and could include days, evenings and overnights and both weekdays and weekends.

Essential Job Duties

• Receiving calls for crisis services from individuals, law enforcement, medical facilities, & service providers and responding in the community to assess individuals for safety and gather information.
• Determining the least restrictive environment for crisis resolution and stabilization for the client.
• Arranging client placements for voluntary and involuntary hospitalization or detox services, when necessary.
• Communicating with Behavioral Health team about clients who have had crisis contact and participating in safety planning.
• Completing extensive clinical and legal documentation for each call taken during the workday and responsible for maintenance and timelines of all records, progress notes, and other required documentation.
• Provided testimony in court as required.
• Attends weekly supervision and team meetings as requested.
• Responsible for Behavioral Health quality management, compliance and chart reviews.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements/Minimum Qualifications

Education: Master's degree in social work , counseling, or related field.

Experience: Minimum of two years of clinical experience is required. Must be eligible for registration as Agency Affiliated Counselor of have active association or full license as LMHC or LICSW or other related license.

• Knowledge of Evidenced Based theories, principles, and practices of the evaluation and treatment of persons exhibiting social, emotional, and/or behavioral difficulties.
• Knowledge of DSM and American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) criteria.
• Knowledge of case management/community support criteria and the ability to produce and maintain accurate and consistent records of each case. Knowledge of all federal, state and county rules and regulations as required in Washington Administrative Code (WAC), Revised Code of Washington (RCW), and contract requirements.
• Proficient knowledge is use of standard office equipment including computers, copiers, fax machines as well as current computer software including Excel and Word.
• Skill in record keeping and case management.
• Skill in operation of office equipment used to provide the necessary information.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and working knowledge of Health Insurance Portability and accountability Act (HIPPE) regulations as it pertains to mental health and chemical dependency records.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing with clients, staff, and the public.
• Demonstrated ability to manage conflict and flexible in crisis situations.

Licenses, Certificates and Other Requirements

• Submit to a criminal background check, as required by Washington State Law.
• Washington State Licensure through the Department of Health or capable of licensure within (6-months of employment).
• Documented completion of continuing education on an annual basis to maintain certification and licensure as applicable.
• Valid state driver’s license in state of residence.