BEHAVIOR HEALTH FIRST RESPONDER-PRN

Apis Services Inc•New Orleans, LA

28d

About The Position

Position Summary The Behavior Health First Responder (BHFR) provides direct services to consumers and their natural supports during a behavioral health crisis in the community. Under the authority of Management, the BHFR ensures that all operating procedures and regulations are followed. Essential Duties and Functions Direct Care Respond in-person to incoming behavioral health calls from 911. Conduct behavioral health assessments for consumers in crisis. Crisis manages the scene safely. Conduct psycho-educational, skills training, and supportive crisis counseling in the community. Transport consumers to a safer situation including bed-based levels of care. Facilitate admission to bed-based care or complete referrals to community resources. Support other first responders (police, fire/rescue, and EMS) with behavioral health emergencies. Follow up with consumers after the crisis to ensure they are safe and able to connect to needed treatment and resources. Administrative Complete all documentation as required by RHD, Funder, licensing/accreditation entities. Community Interaction Community Involvement and teamwork including but not limited to providing referral and other case management services for consumers and families at times of contact, either on the phone, in the community, or with the resident prior to discharge. Represent the program and RHD at community events. Other duties as assigned Essential Duties Addendum for New Perspectives Alternative Dispatch Team Conduct psycho-educational, skills training, and supportive crisis counseling in the community. Complete Safety Plan and C-SSRS as possible Transport/facilitate admissions of consumers to a safer situation including bed-based levels of care- may include the Crisis Residential Program. Complete referrals to community resources. Support other first responders (police, fire/rescue, and EMS) with behavioral health emergencies. Follow up with consumers after the crisis to ensure they are safe and able to connect to needed treatment and resources.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree with major coursework in sociology, social work, psychology, gerontology, anthropology, political science, history, criminal justice, theology, nursing, counseling, education, or a related field. OR High School diploma with 12 semester credits in a human service field and 2 years of experience (1 year in mental health). OR Peer Specialist Certification.
Valid Driver’s License Required
Background Checks Required
Effective Communication: Ability to clearly and respectfully communicate with residents, families, staff, and external agencies. Demonstrates active listening and ensures transparency in all interactions.
Ethical Practice: Upholds confidentiality, integrity, and ethical standards in all interactions and decisions, ensuring the rights and dignity of residents are prioritized.
Leadership and Accountability: Provides clear direction to staff, models positive behaviors, and takes responsibility for the success of the residential program. Holds self and team members accountable for meeting expectations and standards.
Collaboration: Works collaboratively with other professionals, families, and community partners to ensure quality care and services are provided to residents.
Cultural Humility: Demonstrates respect for and understanding of the diverse backgrounds, needs, and perspectives of residents, staff, and families, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
Problem Solving and Conflict Resolution: Approaches challenges with a solution-focused mindset, resolving issues in a fair and timely manner, while maintaining professionalism and promoting a positive atmosphere.
Adherence to Policies and Procedures: Ensures compliance with all regulatory and organizational standards, maintaining a safe, respectful, and efficient residential environment.

Responsibilities

Respond in-person to incoming behavioral health calls from 911.
Conduct behavioral health assessments for consumers in crisis.
Crisis manages the scene safely.
Conduct psycho-educational, skills training, and supportive crisis counseling in the community.
Transport consumers to a safer situation including bed-based levels of care.
Facilitate admission to bed-based care or complete referrals to community resources.
Support other first responders (police, fire/rescue, and EMS) with behavioral health emergencies.
Follow up with consumers after the crisis to ensure they are safe and able to connect to needed treatment and resources.
Complete all documentation as required by RHD, Funder, licensing/accreditation entities.
Community Involvement and teamwork including but not limited to providing referral and other case management services for consumers and families at times of contact, either on the phone, in the community, or with the resident prior to discharge.
Represent the program and RHD at community events.
Conduct psycho-educational, skills training, and supportive crisis counseling in the community.
Complete Safety Plan and C-SSRS as possible
Transport/facilitate admissions of consumers to a safer situation including bed-based levels of care- may include the Crisis Residential Program.
Complete referrals to community resources.
Support other first responders (police, fire/rescue, and EMS) with behavioral health emergencies.
Follow up with consumers after the crisis to ensure they are safe and able to connect to needed treatment and resources.