Kitsap Mental Health Services Careers

Designated Crisis Responder

Full Time and Part-Time Available, Onsite in Bremerton, WA

$10,00 full-time sign on bonus (pro-rate for part-time)*

Hiring Range: $36.15 - $45.18 per hour

Additional Shift Differentials as high as +$6.00 per hour

Benefits at a Glance 

• Comprehensive Coverage: Health, Dental & Vision 
• Generous PTO: Up to 19 days + 2 mental health days + 10 holidays (pro-rated for part-time)
• Fully Paid YMCA Membership for you and eligible family members
• Company-Paid Life & Disability Insurance 
• Student Loan Assistance & Professional Development 
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with Company Contributions 
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 
• Pet Insurance 
• Free Wellness App (2MorrowHealth) 
• Collaborative, Supportive Team Environment 

Kitsap Mental Health Services (KMHS) is seeking a Designated Crisis Responder (DCR) to provide crisis intervention and involuntary treatment investigations throughout Kitsap County. This 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 that can affect clients, families, and the broader community. If you're committed to providing compassionate crisis services during moments of urgent need, we welcome your application.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Provide crisis outreach services across Kitsap County, including face-to-face (FTF) assessments, hospital interventions, and jail assessments.
• Conduct investigations under the ITA, adhering to RCW 71.05 and 71.34 guidelines and DCR protocols.
• Assess client needs, ensuring safety for clients, the community, and yourself during interventions.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, medical professionals, state/local agencies, and client support systems.
• Perform thorough investigations using all appropriate sources, including witness interviews, medical records, and family input.
• Ensure crisis resolution through least restrictive alternatives whenever possible.
• Maintain expert-level knowledge of WA State ITA laws and DCR protocols.

Minimum Qualifications:

EDUCATION: Master’s Degree in Psychology, social services, or behavioral health field or must meet waiver criteria of RCW 71.24.260.

EXPERIENCE: Specialist (minimum of 3 years of job-related experience)

At least five years of experience in direct treatment of persons with mental illness or emotional disturbance, such experience gained under the supervision of a Mental Health Professional.

This position requires driving clients in a personal vehicle on behalf of the agency. Therefore, the incumbent must meet all agency driving requirements, including being at least 21 years old, having been licensed for a minimum of three years, successfully completing a motor vehicle history check, possessing and maintaining a current, valid driver’s license in the state of Washington, and having reliable, insured transportation.

LICENSURE: Must meet and maintain the definition of a Mental Health Professional as defined in RCW 71.05.020.

Performance Requirements:

KNOWLEDGE:

1.                 Maintain a working knowledge of current trends in community behavioral health, including health care reform and automation of job tasks using computer technology.
2.                 Maintain a working knowledge of behavioral health rehabilitation standards.
3.                 Maintain a working knowledge of ITA Law and HIPPA/CFR42, with the ability to maintain confidentiality while working as part of MCOT.

SKILLS:

1.                 Excellent interpersonal and verbal skills with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, peers, organizations, and the community.
2.                 Communication – Communicates clearly and concisely.
3.                 Computer skills – the ability to operate a personal computer, fax machine, printer, and copier proficiently.
4.                 Ability to maintain accurate documentation and electronic health records.

ABILITIES:

1.                 Demonstrated ability to maintain appropriate professional boundaries while balancing conflicting demands of being both a peer to individuals in crisis and an employee of the agency. Seek appropriate supervision where necessary.

1.                 Demonstrated ability to meet or exceed productivity standards.
2.                 Able to assist in building positive working relationships with staff of all agency departments.
3.                 Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively and collaboratively as a team member.

Equipment Operated: Standard office equipment including computers, fax machines, copiers, printers, telephones, etc.

Work Environment: Frequent mobility and/or sitting required for extended periods. This position is performed in office and out in the community. This position is highly mobile and requires the ability to react quickly and perceive environmental stimuli accurately.

*A sign-on bonus is a form of compensation for a new employee in addition to their established salary. Bonus amounts are prorated by FTE, and any changes to FTE before all bonus installments are paid may alter the total payout.

Our recruitment processes are designed to prevent discrimination against our people regardless of gender identity or orientation, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, citizenship, or any aspect which makes someone unique.