Under the supervision of a Crisis Communications Program Manager, Crisis Support Specialists (CSS) provide crisis and suicide intervention, brief supportive counseling, care coordination, and information and referral services over the phone and via text/chat for individuals, families, and agencies seeking assistance.
Respond to calls, chats, and texts (988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and local crisis lines) in a compassionate and professional manner with a trauma sensitive lens.
Collaborate with individuals in crisis, their family members, and relevant treatment team members (internal and external) to support treatment and recovery.
Deliver person-centered services aimed at promoting skills for coping with and managing behavioral health symptoms, with a focus on recovery and resilience.
Facilitate the use of natural supports and community resources to enhance recovery and resilience.
Assess strengths, identify needs and barriers, and address obstacles related to an individual's crisis and short-term goals.
Provide supportive services such as education, counseling, problem-solving, role modeling, referral, advocacy, and crisis intervention.
Coordinate and facilitate appropriate referrals to community services, including behavioral health and substance use services.
Conduct follow-up communications (calls, texts, or chats) to provide postvention support following initial service contact.

Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, or a related field; equivalent relevant experience may also be considered.
A minimum of two (2) years of experience providing person-centered support services.
Proficiency with computers and prior experience using technology independently in a professional setting.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, organizational abilities, and interpersonal skills, especially in working with diverse populations.
Demonstrates excellent customer service abilities.
Ability to quickly learn and navigate new technologies, including software programs and phone systems.
Demonstrates ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with others.
Capable of maintaining effective and cooperative working relationships with both internal and external stakeholders, aligned with HealthSource’s mission.
Displays a positive and proactive attitude towards navigating change and overcoming challenges in a dynamic work environment.
Ability to prepare and submit detailed, accurate reports to the Department of Child and Families (DCF) in accordance with established guidelines and deadlines.
Must pass all required background checks successfully.

Flexible scheduling options to promote a healthy work-life balance.
Fully remote work capabilities.
HealthSource covers 65% of health and dental insurance premiums.
Employees receive 8 paid holidays, 2 floating holidays, and additional paid time off.
Eligibility to participate in our 401k matching program after one year of employment.
Unlimited access to trainings and continuing education units (CEUs) through our Learning Management System, Relias.
HealthSource covers the costs for obtaining the ICH Crisis Helpline Specialist Certification.
A variety of other benefits are offered and can be found in the Employee Handbook.
Opportunities for career advancement within the organization.

Crisis Support Specialist

Key skills