Crisis Counselor

The Crisis Counselor provides direct care, supervision, and support to individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis in a short-term residential setting. The role emphasizes safety, therapeutic engagement, and adherence to trauma-informed and person-centered care standards.

Client Support & Supervision

• Provide 24-hour supervision and emotional support to residents in a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment.

• Engage clients using trauma-informed, recovery-oriented, and culturally responsive approaches.

• Assist residents in developing coping strategies, emotional regulation, and daily living skills.

• Monitor and document client behavior, mood, and safety according to program protocols.

Crisis Intervention

• Respond promptly and effectively to behavioral health crises, using approved de-escalation techniques.

• Assess immediate safety risks and coordinate with clinical staff to implement crisis stabilization plans.

• Notify supervisory or clinical staff of high-risk situations per COMAR and agency protocol.

Documentation & Compliance

• Complete daily shift notes, client logs, incident reports, and observation sheets in accordance with COMAR 10.21.17 and CARF documentation standards.

• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential records in the electronic health record (EHR).

• Adhere to confidentiality requirements outlined in HIPAA, COMAR, and agency policy.

Collaboration & Communication

• Participate in treatment team meetings and contribute to individualized service planning.

• Communicate effectively with clinicians, nurses, program directors, and other team members to ensure coordinated care.

• Support intake, orientation, and discharge procedures for clients entering or leaving the program.

Safety & Facility Maintenance

• Conduct regular safety and environmental checks of the facility as required by COMAR 10.21.17.12B(3).

• Report and document maintenance issues or safety concerns promptly.

• Maintain cleanliness and readiness of the residential setting in compliance with health and safety standards.

Professional Conduct

• Demonstrate professionalism, empathy, and respect in all interactions with residents and staff.

• Uphold CARF standards for person-centered care, ethical conduct, and continuous quality improvement.

• Attend staff trainings, supervision, and required continuing education to maintain compliance and enhance professional skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Human Services, or a related behavioral health field is required.

• Prior experience working in mental health, crisis intervention, or residential settings preferred.

• Strong communication, crisis de-escalation, and documentation skills.

• CPR/First Aid and Crisis Intervention certification (or willingness to obtain within 30 days of hire).

• Must pass background checks, drug screening, and meet all COMAR 10.21.17 staffing qualifications.

Benefits & Compensation

• Starting wage: $18.00 per hour.

• Eligible for merit-based performance and attendance bonuses.

• Flexible scheduling with various shifts to support work-life balance.

• Reimbursement for approved school book expenses related to behavioral health or human services coursework.

• Staff willing to travel and provide coverage across multiple Safe Journey House locations will receive time-and-a-half pay for those shifts.

• Opportunities for advancement and paid ongoing training.

• Work within a trauma-informed, collaborative, and mission-driven setting.

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Work Location: In person