Outreach Crisis Counselor

Position Summary

The Show Me Hope Crisis Counselor provides outreach, emotional support, and educational services to individuals and families impacted by the May 16, 2025, tornadoes in Missouri. This role is part of the federally funded Crisis Counseling Program (CCP), designed to promote emotional well-being, resilience, and community recovery following natural disasters.

Crisis Counselors will conduct field-based outreach in affected areas, connect survivors with local resources, and help individuals develop effective coping and stress management skills.

This is a temporary, grant-funded position, dependent on FEMA funding. 

Key Responsibilities

• Outreach & Engagement
  • Conduct face-to-face outreach in homes, shelters, community centers, and public events to reach disaster survivors.
  • Provide crisis counseling, emotional support, and psychoeducation about common reactions to disasters.
  • Assist individuals and families in identifying coping strategies and strengthening personal and community support systems.
• Assessment & Referral
  • Assess emotional and behavioral needs related to disaster stress.
  • Refer individuals to traditional mental health services when appropriate.
  • Identify tangible needs (e.g., housing, food, transportation) and connect survivors with local relief and community resources.
• Education & Training
  • Deliver presentations and distribute educational materials about disaster stress, coping, and community resilience.
  • Participate in CCP training sessions on disaster mental health, trauma-informed care, and data collection.
• Community Collaboration
  • Build partnerships with community agencies, faith-based organizations, and local leaders to coordinate outreach and support services.
  • Collaborate with other Show Me Hope partners, including CMHCs, the Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH), and local health departments.
• Data Collection & Reporting
  • Document outreach contacts, service activities, and referrals according to program standards.
  • Participate in regular supervision and team meetings to ensure quality and consistency of services.

Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Strong communication, empathy, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and communities affected by trauma.
• Comfort conducting outreach in community settings (door-to-door, shelters, events, etc.).
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling, public health, or a related field.
• Prior experience in crisis intervention, mental health outreach, social services, or disaster response.
• Familiarity with Missouri communities impacted by FEMA disaster 4877.