Offer summary

Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent; higher education in psychology, social work, or counseling preferred., Strong communication skills, including typing and written communication., Experience in crisis de-escalation and working with diverse populations., Bilingual skills are a plus..

Key responsibilities:

Respond promptly to text and chat messages on the 988 platform.

Assess risk, de-escalate crises, and provide emotional support.

Connect users with local mental health and social services.

Maintain accurate documentation of interactions.

Job description

Job Details

Level: Entry

Job Location: Remote - Baltimore, MD

Position Type: Part Time

Salary Range: $22.00 - $24.00 Hourly

Travel Percentage: Up to 25%

Job Shift: Weekends

Description

Location:

Remote

Shifts:

Saturday and Sunday 6AM-2PM or 2PM-10PM

Job Description:

The 988 Text and Chat Crisis Counselor provides immediate, confidential, and trauma-informed support to individuals experiencing emotional distress, suicidal ideation, or mental health crises through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline digital platforms. Counselors assess risk, de-escalate crises, provide emotional support, and connect users with local services when appropriate.

Essential Duties:

Respond promptly to incoming text and chat messages through the 988 Lifeline platform
Engage with users using active listening, empathy, and evidence-based crisis intervention techniques.
Conduct suicide risk assessments and escalate high-risk situations to supervisors or emergency services as needed.
Maintain professional boundaries, cultural humility, and trauma-informed care practices at all times.
Provide appropriate referrals to local mental health services, shelter, substance use treatment, or other resources.
Document all interactions accurately and promptly in electronic records per agency and legal requirements.
Participate in regular supervision, debriefings, and training sessions.
Uphold confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA and 988 Lifeline standards.

Qualifications

Education:

High school diploma or equivalent (Associate’s or bachelor’s in psychology, social work, counseling, or related field preferred).

Experience:

Strong typing, written communication, and crisis de-escalation skills.
Comfort working with diverse populations, including LGBTQIA+, youth, people in active mental health or substance-related crisis.
Bilingual or multilingual skills preferred.

Work Environment & Equipment:

May require some onsite training
Remote position with required internet connectivity and private, quiet workspace
Equipment provided (laptop, headset)
Must adhere to all HIPAA and confidentiality requirements

Compensation & Benefits: