On Call - Crisis Intervention Specialist I

Pacific Clinics • San Jose, IL

12h

About The Position

The Crisis Intervention Specialist I works within a team to develop strength-based relationships with clients experiencing mental health or behavioral crises. The role responds to adults or youth presenting with crisis behaviors such as agitation, aggression, active psychosis, suicidal ideation, or self-injury. Work is shift-based and involves responding to immediate emergency requests in the community or at a Crisis Stabilization Unit, sometimes jointly with law enforcement. The specialist assesses and triages crises, considers safety risks such as weapons and other hazardous environmental factors, and de-escalates and stabilizes potentially volatile situations. Restraint certification may be required.

The position is part of TRUST, a Mobile Mental Health Evaluation Team serving adults experiencing psychiatric or behavioral distress through a crisis hotline, mobile response, and follow-up services. The on-call schedule varies. The role may include hotline support, crisis assessment and intervention, documentation, coordination of involuntary psychiatric holds and transports, safety planning, and linkage to community services.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED and one year of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience; two years of relevant experience equals one year of education.
• Another language may be required by some programs or areas.
• If required by the program, pass an initial physical abilities test (PATS) and obtain crisis intervention techniques certification within the first 30 days; certification must be maintained annually.
• Maintain current job requirements, including applicable certifications and licensure, and maintain a clear criminal record.
• Driving is required.
• Must complete a full background check and TB exam.
• Must be physically fit enough to help keep clients safe, including the ability to move quickly or run and drive a car.
• If employed at a Crisis Stabilization Unit, pass a Human Performance Evaluation Test at a designated company clinic; the test includes lifting, pushing/pulling, repetitive coupling, static weight, and other required movements.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Required vision abilities include close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

Responsibilities

• May support the mental health crisis hotline by gathering information, supporting callers, identifying needs, and providing phone stabilization and resources as needed.
• Assess and de-escalate adults or youth experiencing an acute mental health or behavioral crisis, including people who may be a danger to themselves or others.
• Participate in information gathering and decision-making related to involuntary psychiatric holds under Lanterman-Petris-Short laws and regulations.
• Provide direct billable mental health services, document in accordance with Medi-Cal regulations, and meet productivity expectations.
• Engage and support family members and other natural supports during acute psychiatric crises, including providing psychoeducation about de-escalation and securing home environments.
• Facilitate transport for individuals on 5150 holds, provide clinical information to accepting hospitals or other psychiatric facilities, and remain with clients until transport arrives and their safety en route is ensured.
• Help individuals identify triggers, unmet needs, and psychosocial factors contributing to an ongoing crisis; use a strengths-based approach to develop risk management and safety plans.
• Provide community linkages, referrals, and resources based on identified needs, including mental health, substance use, housing, and other social services.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits, with eligibility starting on day one.
• 401(k) employer match up to 4%.
• Competitive time-off plans, subject to eligibility requirements based on employment status.
• Possible 8% license differential for LMFT, LCSW, LPCC, PsyD, and select peer certifications.
• Possible bilingual differential of up to 7.5% for qualifying direct-service roles or up to $80 per month for qualifying non-direct-service roles.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED