988 NBU Online Crisis Counselor I (69550)

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 originating from 988/The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The Online Crisis Counselor provides non-judgmental crisis support using a crisis intervention model and suicide intervention techniques, as appropriate, for Visitors in self-defined crises. Online Crisis Counselors also participate in welcoming and coaching new counselors and perform other duties as assigned by the Program Coordinator. They provide support and consultation to new counselors and are responsible for adhering to imminent risk and mandated reporting procedures according to policy.

Principal Activities

• Answer incoming chats and texts, providing crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and supportive counseling to clients in emotional distress or at risk of suicide
• Conduct safety assessments in line with agency policies, funding, accreditation, and Lifeline Best Practices
• Manage client interactions to ensure efficient and appropriate support
• Initiate police intervention procedures if a Visitor is at immediate risk of harm
• Adhere to state and federal legal requirements, including HIPAA confidentiality and mandated reporting (e.g., CPS, APS, Tarasoff Duty to Warn)
• Collaborate with the online crisis counselor team and Shift Leads on complex cases
• Consult with Shift Leads and Master’s level Crisis Shift Managers on compliance issues, including mandatory reporting, HIPAA, and imminent risk
• Use Microsoft Teams to engage with remote staff and 988 Crisis Shift Leads
• Attend staff meetings and trainings to enhance clinical skills and promote professional development
• Mentor and coach new staff

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