Kitsap Mental Health Services Careers

Designated Crisis Responder - Full Time and Part-Time Available

$7,500 full-time sign on bonus (pro-rate for part-time)*

Hiring Range: $35.79 - $44.73 per hour

Additional Shift Differentials as high as +$6.00 per hour

Benefits: 

• Comprehensive and generous health, dental and vision benefits
• Up to 19 days of PTO, 2 mental health days and 10 paid holidays your first year (pro-rated for part-time)
• Company paid life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability
• Student loan payment assistance and extensive training
• An incredible team approach that is dynamic and collaborative

Kitsap Mental Health Services is hiring a Designated Crisis Responder (DCR) to join our Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT). The DCR is critical in delivering immediate crisis intervention and stabilization services across Kitsap County. You’ll work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment to conduct clinical assessments, manage crises, and determine involuntary detention under Washington State’s Involuntary Treatment Act (ITA). This position emphasizes stabilizing crises in the least restrictive way while ensuring safety and access to care.
 

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.

DRIVER’s LICENSE: This position may require driving clients on behalf of the agency; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a motor vehicle history check, possess and maintain a current, valid driver's license in the state of Washington, and have reliable, insured transportation.

LICENSURE: Licensed Agency Affiliated Counselor or higher.

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

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.