Crisis Counselor (ARC)

Meridian Behavioral Healthcare, Inc.; Gainesville (FL); On-site; USD 43,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Generous PTO and holidays

Health plans, dental, vision, life, LT

403(b) retirement plan with company 8%

Tuition reimbursement

Wellness programs and EAP

Diverse, inclusive culture

Mileage reimbursement

Job summary

Meridian Healthcare seeks a Crisis Counselor for a grant-funded temporary role spanning multiple Florida counties. You will deliver outreach, emotional support, education, and connections to medical and behavioral health services for Hurricane Helene-impacted communities.

The role emphasizes respectful engagement with diverse populations, building resilience, and collaborating with schools, faith groups, and local agencies to support recovery efforts.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Two years of experience in social services, outreach, community engagement, case management, or related field.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently in community settings and engage diverse populations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct community outreach and engagement activities across Baker, Bradford, and Union Counties.
• Connect community members with medical, behavioral health, social services, and recovery resources.
• Provide information, support, and guidance to individuals and families affected by Hurricane Helene.
• Participate in community events, outreach fairs, schools, faith-based organizations, and other public venues.
• Build relationships with community partners and local agencies to strengthen recovery efforts.
• Maintain accurate documentation and activity records for grant reporting.
• Monitor client progress and coordinate with partner agencies to address needs.
• Assist with implementing the Community Outreach and Recovery Plan and identify emerging community needs.
• Serve as a trusted resource for citizens seeking recovery support.

Skills

Communication

Relationship-building

Organizational skills

Independent work

Cultural competence

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services or related field

Job description

Location:Baker, Bradford, Union, Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Levy, Gilchrist,Putnam, Suwannee, Hamilton and LaFayette counties
Pay:$20.59/hour (Non-Exempt)
Position Type:Full-Time, Grant-Funded Temporary Position
Position End Date:September 30, 2026

About the Role

Are you passionate about helping communities recover and heal during difficult times? Meridian Healthcare is seeking a compassionate and community-focusedCrisis Counselorto support individuals and families impacted by Hurricane Helene.

In this grant-funded, temporary role, you will serve as a trusted resource by providing outreach, emotional support, education, and connections to vital medical, behavioral health, and community services. Working directly within the community, including schools, faith-based organizations, local businesses, fairs, and community events, you will help individuals navigate challenges, access resources, and take meaningful steps toward recovery.

The ideal candidate is approachable, empathetic, culturally aware, and comfortable engaging with individuals who may be experiencing stress, uncertainty, or emotional hardship following a disaster. Through every interaction, you will help foster hope, resilience, and community well-being.

What You'll Do

• Conduct community outreach and engagement activities throughout Baker, Bradford, and Union Counties.
• Connect community members with medical, behavioral health, social service, and recovery resources.
• Provide information, support, and guidance to individuals and families affected by Hurricane Helene.
• Participate in community events, outreach fairs, schools, faith-based organizations, and other public venues.
• Build relationships with community partners and local agencies to strengthen recovery efforts.
• Maintain accurate documentation and activity records to support grant reporting requirements.
• Monitor client progress and coordinate with partner agencies to ensure needs are being addressed.
• Assist with implementing the Community Outreach and Recovery Plan.Identify emerging community needs and provide feedback to leadership.
• Serve as a trusted resource for citizens seeking support during recovery efforts.

What We're Looking For

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Two (2) years of experience working directly with community members in social services, outreach, community engagement, case management, or a related field.
• Strong communication, relationship‑building, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently in community settings and engage diverse populations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Public Health, or a related field.
• Experience in care coordination, community outreach, disaster recovery, prevention services, or behavioral health settings.
• Knowledge of community resources and social service systems.

Additional Requirements

Driver Requirements

Please Note:A company vehicle is not provided for this position. Mileage reimbursement will be provided in accordance with Meridian Healthcare policies.

Applicants must:

• Possess a valid Florida Driver's License.
• Meet Meridian Healthcare's driving and insurance requirements.
• Have no more than three (3) moving violations and/or accidents within the past three years.
• Have no major driving violations within the past five years.
• Be at least 21 years of age if required to drive for company purposes.

WhyYou'll Love Working Here

• Competitive Pay & Incentives
• Work-Life Balance: Generous PTO for vacation, sick time, and holidays
• Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple health plans, dental, vision, life insurance, and long‑term disability
• Retirement Planning: 403(b) with up to 8% company match after 7 years
• Growth & Development: Tuition reimbursement, career advancement pathways, and Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility
• Wellness & Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness incentives, and mental health resources
• Inclusive Culture: Supportive, team-oriented environment with employee events and recognition
• Additional Perks: Cell phone discounts, travel reimbursement, LegalShield, pet insurance, and more

Make a Difference

Help bring hope and healing to the communities we serve.

Meridian is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.

For information on Florida's Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse and screening requirements, visithttps://info.flclearinghouse.com .