988 WA Online Crisis Counselor I

Volunteers Of America Western Washington•Everett, WA

8d•$25 - $28•Remote

About The Position

Volunteers of America is a non-profit organization operating in Western Washington for over 125 years. Our Christian roots drive us to put our faith into action for the benefit of every member of the community. We celebrate our unique perspectives that allow us to better serve and uplift our community – and each other. The primary responsibility of this full-time, hourly position is to respond to online chats and texts from 988/The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The Online Crisis Counselor provides crisis support using a crisis intervention model and, when necessary, suicide prevention techniques, to visitors in self-defined crisis. This role also includes welcoming and coaching new counselors, offering ongoing support and consultation, and performing imminent risk assessments and mandated reporting in accordance with policy.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in a social science/behavioral health or related field and one (1) year experience in a mental health or related position
Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration is required within 30 days of employment, or equivalent, and must remain in active status during employment
Passing a typing test with a score of 35 WPM or higher
Fluency in English (oral and written)
Courteous and professional demeanor
Proficiency in Motivational Interviewing and active listening
Strong problem-solving and information-gathering skills
Superior communication skills to convey information clearly and effectively
Ability to multitask, including talking and typing simultaneously
Efficiency in documenting notes in electronic medical records
High-Speed Internet: Minimum download speed of 100Mbps and upload speed of 10Mbps.
Secured Wired Connection: A direct wired connection to the internet using a secured ethernet cable is mandatory. Wireless connections (WiFi) are not allowed due to potential security risks and performance limitations
No Satellite Internet: Satellite internet service providers such as HughesNet, Starlink, or Visat are not supported due to latency issues that can negatively impact service delivery

Responsibilities

Respond to incoming chats and texts, providing crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and brief supportive counseling to individuals in emotional distress or considering suicide
Conduct safety assessments in line with agency policies, funding requirements, accreditation standards, and Lifeline Best Practices
Manage client interactions to ensure the appropriate level of support is provided efficiently
Initiate police intervention procedures if a visitor is identified as at immediate risk of harm to themselves or others
Adhere to applicable state and federal laws, including HIPAA confidentiality requirements and mandated reporting (e.g., CPS, APS referrals, Tarasoff Duty to Warn)
Collaborate with the crisis counselor team and supervisors on complex cases, ensuring a team-based decision-making process
Use Microsoft Teams to communicate with remote staff and 988 supervisors
Participate in staff meetings and training sessions focused on enhancing clinical skills and professional development
Contribute to an environment that focuses on ensuring integrity, respect, and accountability
Other duties as assigned