Crisis Support Specialist (dispatcher)

Job Posting

Minimum Qualifications: High School diploma or GED. AA/AS degree or two years of equivalent education and/or experience working in the human services field. Communicate positively and effectively with others. Work independently as well as be a productive part of a team. Working knowledge of office procedures, word-processing, filing, bookkeeping and other office related skills. Dispatching experience preferred. Dependable vehicle, valid drivers license, and compliance with agency’s liability carriers requirements may be required depending on job assignment. Basic proficiency in math. Completion of required trainings upon hire.

General Responsibilities: This person will be responsible for receiving and processing emergency calls related to mental health crises. They will gather information about the situation, provide immediate support, and coordinate the appropriate response in coordination with licensed clinician. This person will guide clients through the registration process when needed. This person will also serve as a backup provider working with clients in the CDS Diversion Site or other community locations.

Essential Job Functions:

1. Provide reception, answer calls to CDS and delegate calls to appropriate staff. Maintain statistics on attendant care, crisis utilization and other outcome data as requested. Maintain general office supplies, forms, and monitor CDS building and vehicle pool for maintenance needs. Schedule CDS vehicle pool when necessary. Read and forward all after hours calls to appropriate staff.
2. Handle crisis phone calls and assign appropriate level of staff to best serve the patient. Respect ethical and legal boundaries at all times. Be alert to dual relationships and seek assistance by notifying supervisory staff immediately when becoming aware of a potential problem.
3. Enter progress notes within 24 hours of event. Schedule transactions on other CDS staff members as needed. Submit Motor Pool documentation as requested. Make sure that check requests are submitted in a timely manner.
4. Works as a valued team member in all aspects of work. Contributes to a positive work environment in all interactions. Consistently works to learn new skills and reduce stigma of mental health treatment. Takes an active role in completion of training plan and continued education.

Other Job Functions: Exhibit and promote decisions / behavior consistent with the Centers established Vision, Mission, and Values. Any deviations to the work schedule and all overtime must be approved in advance. Other duties as assigned by Supervisor.