Case Worker - Dearborn Police Co-Responder Unit

Access•Dearborn, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision the Case Worker Dearborn Police Co-Responder partners with both the Co-Responder Therapist and Dearborn Police Officers to deliver in-field case management, crisis intervention, system navigation, and follow-up support for community members facing behavioral health, substance use, or social-service crises. This role emphasizes engagement, assessment, safety coordination, connection to services, advocacy, and ongoing support—rather than clinical diagnosis or treatment. The position assists individuals and families by conducting needs assessments, identifying required services, linking clients to appropriate resources, coordinating care, and ensuring continued assistance after the immediate crisis has passed.

Requirements

Knowledge of Crisis intervention principles (non-clerical)
Knowledge of Behavioral health, substance use, and social-service systems
Knowledge of Community resources (housing, financial aid, mental health services, SUD programs, shelters)
Knowledge of Eligibility criteria for public assistance programs and social services
Knowledge of Safety practices when working in partnership with law enforcement
Skill in Engagement, rapport building, and active listening
Skill in Coordinating services across agencies and systems
Skill in Researching community resources and navigating complex service systems
Skill in Using Microsoft Office and electronic documentation systems
Skill in Operating standard office equipment and using required software applications for program area and other applications, including Microsoft Office
Ability to Work effectively in unpredictable, high-stress, or emergency situations
Ability to Collaborate with police officers, clinicians, and other professionals
Ability to Objectively gather information, identify trends, and make informed recommendations
Ability to Communicate clearly, compassionately, and professionally both verbally and in writing
Ability to Maintain strict confidentiality of all client and agency information
Ability to Organize and prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines
Ability to Wear safety equipment as required
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, Criminal Justice, Public Health or a related field
2-3 years’ experience in behavioral health, crisis work, social services, homeless services, case management, community outreach, or related field
Valid Driver’s License
Additional crisis or safety training may be required after hire date (CPI, Mental Health First Aid, etc.)

Nice To Haves

Ability to Interpret and communicate information in Arabic, Spanish, or another language
Experience working with individuals experiencing mental illness, substance use disorders, or homelessness
Experience partnering with law enforcement or working in community-based crisis settings

Responsibilities

Respond to mental health or social-service-related 911 calls with the Co-Responder Therapist and law enforcement
Assist with on-scene engagement, safety coordination, de-escalation support, rapport building, and needs identification
Conduct non-clinical assessments, gather presenting information and support the clinical team in determining immediate service needs
Provide crisis intervention within scope, including stabilization support, safety planning under therapist direction, resource linkage, and follow-up planning
Identify individuals who may benefit from outreach, early intervention, or support services and engage them in voluntary services
Conduct intake interviews, need assessments and case evaluations in the field, at homes, hospitals, the police station, or community settings
Connect clients to behavioral health treatment, substance use services, housing supports, financial assistance, and other community resources
Explain program guidelines, eligibility criteria, and application processes to clients in clear and understandable terms
Advocate on behalf of clients with external agencies (CMH, shelters, hospitals, outpatient providers, schools, etc.)
Provide warm hand-offs and high-touch follow-up to ensure connection, engagement, and program compliance
Support the Co-Responder Therapist in the development of individualized goals and service plans
Participate in interdisciplinary case staffing, team conferences, and collaborative problem solving
Conduct post-crisis follow-ups to ensure clients engage in recommended services
Monitor progress toward goals, document outcomes, and adjust service plans as needed
Conduct home, community, or phone visits to evaluate participation and ongoing needs
Track referrals and coordinate care among multiple providers
Maintain accurate documentation in accordance with agency, state, federal, and funding guidelines
Report program progress and outcomes at required intervals
Adhere to confidentiality guidelines (HIPAA), ethical conduct standards, and privacy laws
Follow requirements related to safety, quality assurance, and CARF standards
Partner closely with law enforcement, the Co-Responder Therapist, crisis teams, hospitals, shelters, and community-based providers
Participate in team meetings, peer reviews, and required training
Build and maintain knowledge of community resources and system of care
May assist with program presentations, community outreach, and grant-related activities as assigned
Wear required safety equipment, including a bullet-resistant vest when in the field
Transport clients in agency vehicles, as needed
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned