Crisis Counselor

LIGHTSHARE BEHAVIORAL WELLNESS & RECOVERY • Sarasota, FL

6h

About The Position

The Crisis Counselor plays a vital role in providing immediate emotional support and intervention to individuals experiencing acute psychological distress or crisis situations. This position requires the counselor to assess the severity of the crisis, develop safety plans, and connect clients with appropriate resources to ensure their well-being. The counselor will work closely with individuals from diverse backgrounds, offering empathetic listening and guidance to help stabilize their emotional state. The ultimate goal is to reduce the risk of harm, promote resilience, and facilitate access to ongoing mental health care when necessary. This role demands a compassionate, patient, and skilled professional dedicated to making a meaningful difference in moments of critical need.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field.
• Certification or training in crisis intervention or suicide prevention.
• Experience working in a mental health or crisis support environment.
• Strong understanding of confidentiality and ethical guidelines in counseling.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• The Crisis Counselor utilizes active listening and empathetic communication skills daily to build trust and rapport with individuals in distress.
• Critical thinking and quick decision-making are essential for assessing risk and determining the best course of action during crisis situations.
• Strong organizational skills are necessary to document interactions accurately and manage follow-up procedures effectively.
• Collaboration and interpersonal skills enable the counselor to work seamlessly with emergency responders and mental health professionals.
• Additionally, cultural competence and adaptability are important to provide sensitive and appropriate support to clients from varied backgrounds.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or a related discipline.
• Licensed Mental Health Professional (e.g., LPC, LCSW, LMFT).
• Experience with telehealth platforms and remote counseling techniques.
• Bilingual abilities to support diverse populations.
• Training in trauma-informed care and de-escalation techniques.

Responsibilities

• Respond promptly and effectively to crisis calls, texts, or online chats, providing immediate emotional support and intervention.
• Conduct thorough risk assessments to determine the level of danger to the individual or others and develop appropriate safety plans.
• Collaborate with emergency services, mental health professionals, and community resources to coordinate care and follow-up support.
• Maintain detailed and confidential records of all interactions, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.
• Participate in ongoing training and supervision to stay current with best practices in crisis intervention and mental health support.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level