Crisis Counselor, Crisis Unit

Heritage Behavioral Health Center • Decatur, IL

6h • $25 - $60,000

About The Position

The Counselor will be part of our Care Transition Team, providing short-term, crisis-focused counseling to individuals admitted to the Crisis Stabilization Unit during periods of acute behavioral health need.

The focus of this role is symptom stabilization, strengthening crisis response skills, enhancing coping strategies, and ensuring a smooth, timely transition to outpatient or community-based care. This is a fast-paced, collaborative clinical environment that values clinical judgment, flexibility, and excellent communication.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a human services field (required)
• Skill in providing effective, short-term clinical interventions in high-acuity settings
• Knowledge of crisis intervention and de-escalation models
• Familiarity with DSM-5 diagnostic criteria
• Ability to develop and adjust crisis and recovery-focused treatment plans
• Understanding of WRAP principles
• Strong clinical judgment and ability to prioritize in a fast-paced setting
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong team collaboration skills
• Comfort with uncertainty, rapid change, and crisis environments
• Ability to navigate electronic health records and documentation systems
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance required

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field (preferred)
• Preferred certifications/licensure: CADC, LSW, LPC
• Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) credential preferred
• Experience in behavioral health settings and crisis services strongly preferred
• Leadership or people development experience is a plus

Responsibilities

• Provide short-term counseling and crisis intervention to individuals admitted to the Crisis Stabilization Unit
• Complete clinical assessments and provide ongoing therapeutic interventions
• Update and develop Crisis Safety Plans with individuals served
• Support Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAP) to promote self-management
• Help clients identify triggers, warning signs, and effective coping skills
• Participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning and clinical staffings
• Assist with discharge planning and coordination of transitions to lower levels of care
• Collaborate with internal teams and external providers to ensure continuity of care
• Educate individuals on resources and relapse-prevention strategies
• Complete timely documentation, progress notes, and treatment updates
• Maintain trauma-informed, person-centered, recovery-oriented clinical relationships

Benefits

• Generous Time Off: Vacation, sick, personal, and holiday leave
• Wellness Benefits: Every other Friday paid off, EAP, fitness reimbursement
• Insurance:Health, dental, vision, FSA (healthcare & dependent care), additional life insurance
• Retirement: 401(k) and Roth options
• Professional Growth: Tuition assistance and continuing education opportunities
• Loan Forgiveness: Eligible through the National Health Service Corps (NHSC)

What This Job Offers

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