Mental Health Counselor II (ESP)

Mental Health Counselor II (On Call)
Program: Esperanza Crisis Center (Escondido)
Region: Escondido
Services: Crisis Care
Career Type: Counselors

UPCOMING CAREER FAIR!

Wednesday, April 8, 2026 - 10:00 am to 2:30 pm

Marina Village Conference Center - 1936 Quivira Way, San Diego, 92109

Come meet our hiring managers and learn about our opportunities at CRF

Hours: Per Diem; must be available to work two shifts per month. Shifts may include days (8:00 am to 4:30 pm) or evenings (3:30 pm to Midnight) - weekdays and/or weekends. This position is an on-site position and requires in-person attendance to perform the essential functions of the job.

Pay Rate: $32.69 to $33.02 per hour plus $3.00 per hour shift differential for weekends or overnights

Education: Master's degree in a mental health-related field such as Psychology, Social Work, or Counseling required

Benefits:

• 19 days of PTO per year
• Monthly contribution of $100 towards qualified student loan debt; access to Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program for eligible individuals
• Choice of medical plans, with minimal employee cost/expenses and excellent coverage
• Several dental plan options; vision benefits
• Company-paid life insurance and Long-Term Disability
• Tax-Free Flexible Spending for medical/dental/childcare expenses
• Generous retirement plan contributions
• Free Employee Assistance Plan
• Employee discount program, including pet insurance plans
• Opportunities for advancement and growth

As a Counselor II, you will:

• Depending on experience, you may assist with initial behavioral health assessments of new clients.
• Provide individual contacts, group, and milieu psychosocial behavior health services and activities for clients within scope of practice.
• Act as admission coordinator and/or team lead when designated.
• Assist clients with discharge planning and conducts care coordination. Works closely with various providers in the region or system to facilitate access to services.
• Consult and coordinate with family and/or support system regarding client treatment and discharge planning.
• Conduct crisis intervention and risk assessment. First responder to intervene in crises when needed and indicated at the program in order to ensure the safety of clients and staff.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• 2 years of experience working with a mental health population, especially with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness and co-occurring disorders is strongly preferred
• First Aid/CPR certification is required and must be kept current during employment; can be obtained prior to starting work
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment is essential
• Ability to work independently, self-directed and highly organized
• A valid California driver’s license in good standing and eligibility to be an approved CRF driver is required to fulfill the essential functions of this position. In addition, proof of insurance is required prior to driving personal vehicles on company business.
• Proficient computer skills, including MS Office
• Ability to pass criminal/background clearance

CRF inspires and mentors the next generation of mental health professionals!

Our Crisis Centers are Short Term Acute Residential Treatment (START) programs (Del Sur Crisis Center, Esperanza Crisis Center, Halcyon Crisis Center, Jary Barreto Crisis Center, New Vistas Crisis Center, Turning Point Crisis Center and Vista Balboa Crisis Center) that provide intensive, community-based crisis residential services for adults throughout San Diego County. They deliver a unique alternative to psychiatric hospitalization to clients who are experiencing a psychiatric crisis of such magnitude so as not to be manageable on an outpatient basis. Their services are provided in a home-like environment that specializes in the psychosocial rehabilitation of each individual.

CRF staff members work together to meet the needs of San Diego County’s residents who are experiencing mental/behavioral health challenges. We offer a diverse, inclusive workplace that fosters personal growth and development. You will work within a collaborative, supportive team structure, learn new ways to provide optimal supports to your clients and help people change their lives for the better!

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

Counselor II

Pay: $32.69 - $33.02 per hour

Benefits:

• Referral program

Work Location: In person