988 WA Online Crisis Counselor I (69518)

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.

Principal Activities

• 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

Benefits

We believe that taking care of our team is essential to fulfilling our mission. We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being as a full-time employee. 

• Vacation and Sick Time: Vacation up to 200 hours, Sick time up to 108.64 hours
• Competitive compensation
• Holidays: 9 paid per year + 2 paid floating holidays
• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Savings Account (FSA) medical & dependent care
• Free Employee Assistance program
• 403(b) Retirement Plan matching
• Professional Development opportunities