Designated Crisis Responder

Kitsap Mental Health Services • Bremerton, WA

4d • $36 - $45 • Onsite

About The Position

Kitsap Mental Health Services (KMHS) is seeking a Designated Crisis Responder (DCR) to provide crisis intervention and involuntary treatment investigations throughout Kitsap County. The position helps individuals experiencing behavioral health emergencies access appropriate care while emphasizing safety and the least restrictive intervention possible. The role supports critical decision-making affecting clients, families, and the broader community.

The position provides crisis outreach services, including face-to-face assessments, hospital interventions, and jail assessments. It conducts investigations under the ITA, following RCW 71.05 and 71.34 guidelines and DCR protocols, and collaborates with law enforcement, medical professionals, agencies, and client support systems. The role is performed in the office and in the community and requires frequent mobility, the ability to react quickly, and accurate perception of environmental stimuli.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in psychology, social services, or a behavioral health field, or meet waiver criteria under RCW 71.24.260.
• At least five years of experience in direct treatment of people with mental illness or emotional disturbance, gained under the supervision of a Mental Health Professional.
• Must meet and maintain the definition of a Mental Health Professional under RCW 71.05.020.
• Meet agency driving requirements, including being at least 21 years old, having been licensed for at least three years, passing a motor vehicle history check, maintaining a current valid Washington State driver’s license, and having reliable insured transportation.
• Working knowledge of current trends in community behavioral health, including health care reform and automation of job tasks using computer technology.
• Working knowledge of behavioral health rehabilitation standards.
• Working knowledge of ITA law and HIPAA/CFR42, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Excellent interpersonal and verbal skills and ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, peers, organizations, and the community.
• Clear and concise communication skills.
• Proficiency operating a personal computer, fax machine, printer, and copier.
• Ability to maintain appropriate professional boundaries while balancing the demands of being both a peer to people in crisis and an agency employee.
• Ability to assist in building positive working relationships with staff across agency departments and to work cooperatively and collaboratively as a team member.

Responsibilities

• Provide crisis outreach services across Kitsap County, including face-to-face assessments, hospital interventions, and jail assessments.
• Conduct investigations under the ITA in accordance with RCW 71.05 and 71.34 guidelines and DCR protocols.
• Assess client needs and ensure safety for clients, the community, and yourself during interventions.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, medical professionals, state and local agencies, and client support systems.
• Conduct thorough investigations using appropriate sources, including witness interviews, medical records, and family input.
• Seek crisis resolution through least restrictive alternatives whenever possible.
• Maintain expert-level knowledge of Washington State ITA laws and DCR protocols.
• Maintain confidentiality while working as part of MCOT and comply with applicable ITA law and HIPAA/CFR42 requirements.
• Maintain accurate documentation and electronic health records.
• Meet or exceed productivity standards and seek appropriate supervision when necessary.
• Build positive working relationships across agency departments and work cooperatively as a team member.
• Drive clients in a personal vehicle on behalf of the agency.

Benefits

• Full-time sign-on bonus of $10,000, prorated for part-time; bonus installments may be affected by changes in FTE before all installments are paid.
• Health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Up to 19 days of PTO, two mental health days, and 10 holidays, prorated for part-time.
• Fully paid YMCA membership for the employee and eligible family members.
• Company-paid life and disability insurance.
• Student loan assistance.
• Professional development.
• 403(b) retirement plan with company contributions.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Pet insurance.
• Free 2MorrowHealth wellness app.
• Additional shift differentials of up to $6.00 per hour.

What This Job Offers

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