What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director, Crisis Services position at Lutheran Family Services?
Job Type
Full-Time
Position Summary:
Full-Time
Position Summary:
- The Director of Crisis Services provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of crisis response, urgent care, co-response, crisis stabilization units, and detox services. This role ensures the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based services, focused on safety and client experience, while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. The Director serves as a resource to staff and community partners, coordinates crisis services initiatives, and is routinely on-call to provide guidance and support during critical incidents or emergent situations, ensuring rapid and effective resolution. The Director also cultivates a high-performing team environment and fosters ongoing professional development among program leaders and staff.
- Provide day-to-day leadership, on-call, and operational management of crisis stabilization, urgent care, and detox programs, supervising managers, supervisors, and frontline staff.
- Ensure services are delivered using evidence-based and best practices, with a strong focus on safety, quality, and client experience.
- Develop, implement, and evaluate crisis response initiatives to meet emerging community needs and improve system-wide outcomes.
- Recruit, coach, and develop program leaders and staff, fostering professional growth and a supportive, high-performance team environment.
- Maintain compliance with state, federal, and local regulations; oversee audits, site visits, and certification processes; ensure accurate and timely reporting.
- Establish and monitor program performance metrics, guiding quality improvement efforts and adjusting practices as needed.
- Collaborate with law enforcement, hospitals, behavioral health providers, and community partners to coordinate crisis services and promote continuity of care.
- Manage budgets and resources for crisis programs, identifying opportunities for efficiency and sustainability; participate in grant development and funding initiatives.
- Lead clinical and operational response during high-risk or emergent situations, ensuring clear protocols and staff support.
- Represent the organization on regional or statewide committees, task forces, and partnerships related to crisis response.
- Other job-related duties as directed by leadership.
- Ability to guide and support multidisciplinary teams through critical, fast-paced situations.
- Skilled in clinical and operational decision-making, with the ability to balance safety, compliance, and client-centered care.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with experience working across community systems (healthcare, law enforcement, behavioral health, etc.).
- Proficiency in data-driven decision making and quality improvement strategies.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- High level of professionalism, integrity, and ethical standards.
- Familiar with EHR systems, telehealth platforms, and clinical data management tools.
- Financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and resource stewardship.
- Regular and predictable attendance, and promptness for work.
- Commitment to uphold the mission, vision, and values of Lutheran Family Services.
- Support the organization’s objectives to be an inclusive and accessible workplace.
- Leadership
- Resilience
- Collaboration
- Critical Thinking
- Bachelor’s degree in behavioral health, social work, psychology, counseling, psychiatry, or a related field preferred. Equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
- Current, active, and unrestricted license (LIMHP, LICSW or LMHP) in Nebraska preferred.
- Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) preferred.
- 5 years’ progressive experience in behavioral health crisis services, including at least 3 years in a leadership role.
- Expertise in crisis stabilization, urgent care, or detox programming strongly preferred.
- Valid driver’s license, proof of liability insurance, and ability to travel for agency business.
- In-office work environment with frequent computer use and participation in both virtual and in-person meetings with clients, families, staff, and community partners. Occasional remote work may apply.
- Regular use of a company-issued laptop and cell phone.
- Ability to travel to agency sites and community locations for meetings and program needs.
- Able to occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
- Able to respond to crisis situations during evenings, weekends, and on-call hours as organizational needs arise.