Remote Online Crisis Counselor — 988 Support

Volunteers Of America Western Washington; Everett (WA); Remote; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Vacation & sick time

Holidays

Medical/Dental/Vision

HSA

FSA

EAP

403(b) matching

Professional development

Job summary

Volunteers of America Western Washington is seeking a full-time Online Crisis Counselor to respond to chats and texts originating from 988, providing crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and supportive counseling to those in distress.

You will work with remote staff via Microsoft Teams, adhere to HIPAA confidentiality and mandated reporting, mentor new counselors, and assist the Program Coordinator with program duties as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a social science/behavioral health or related field.
• One year of experience in a mental health or related field.
• Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration within 30 days of employment.
• Typing test with a score of 35 WPM or higher.
• Fluency in English (oral and written).
• Strong communication and documentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Answer incoming chats and texts, providing crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and supportive counseling to clients in emotional distress or at risk of suicide.
• Conduct safety assessments in line with agency policies, funding, accreditation, and Lifeline Best Practices.
• Manage client interactions to ensure efficient and appropriate support.
• Initiate police intervention procedures if a Visitor is at immediate risk of harm.
• Adhere to state and federal legal requirements, including HIPAA confidentiality and mandated reporting.
• Collaborate with the online crisis counselor team and Shift Leads on complex cases.
• Consult with Shift Leads and Master’s level Crisis Shift Managers on compliance issues, including mandatory reporting, HIPAA, and imminent risk.
• Use Microsoft Teams to engage with remote staff and 988 Crisis Shift Leads.
• Attend staff meetings and trainings to enhance clinical skills and promote professional development.
• Mentor and coach new staff.

Skills

Empathy

Active listening

Motivational Interviewing

English fluency

Multitasking

Documentation

Communication skills

Problem solving

Typing 35 WPM

Education

Bachelor’s degree in social science/behavioral health or related field

Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration

Job description

Volunteers of America Western Washington is seeking a full-time Online Crisis Counselor to respond to chats and texts originating from 988, providing crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and supportive counseling to those in distress.

You will work with remote staff via Microsoft Teams, adhere to HIPAA confidentiality and mandated reporting, mentor new counselors, and assist the Program Coordinator with program duties as needed.