Crisis Intervention Specialist

The Crisis Intervention Specialist serves as the first point of contact for clients calling the crisis center. Obtaining experience in crisis intervention is vital for anyone looking to enter the fields of criminal justice, social services, etc. Personal experience working with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault crime presents a unique opportunity to build your resume. The Crisis Intervention Specialist will field incoming calls to crisis lines, complete the intake process for new clients, provide referrals, and connect victims to advocates. Crisis Intervention Specialists will also have the opportunity to shadow Victim Advocates assisting with protective order filing, safety planning, etc.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Gain Education in the Following Areas:
  • Domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, child abuse, elder abuse, and strangulation
  • Helping those we serve to address important problems keeping them from getting safe
  • Victim rights in civil and criminal justice systems
  • Requirements and process for filing a protective order
• Become familiar with resources to verify court information and offender status updates.
• Shadow Victim Advocate meetings including intakes, protective orders, and safety planning.
• Answering all incoming calls, including crisis calls, informational calls, follow-up contact calls, and calls for staff members.
• Completing crisis call assessment forms with callers to determine program eligibility and appropriateness.
• Following agency rules and protocols for admitting people to the center.
• Fostering an environment of respect with clients, callers, and staff.
• Supporting other staff as needed including:
  • Providing the victims with empathy and support.
  • Providing the victims with resources and referrals for medical, legal, shelter/housing, employment, counseling/support groups assistance.
  • Providing follow-ups.

Skills:

• Ability to stay calm and use appropriate judgment in responding to crisis and security situations
• Critical thinking and evaluation skills
• Ability to handle multiple tasks
• Attention to detail in record keeping, coordination, and documentation
• Excellent organizational skills
• Ability to problem solve and make appropriate decisions in urgent situations
• Awareness and adherence to confidentiality and boundaries
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
• Punctuality and dependability
• Proactive

Required Qualifications:

• Completed or in the process of obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in criminology, criminal justice, law, social work, or related field OR previous experience in working with victims of trauma
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Suite including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel
• Excellent typing skills
• Commitment to a non-violent and cooperative work environment
• Commitment to providing quality services to all clients regardless of race, sex, religion, age or national origin
• Ability to pass a criminal background check
• Ability to do online research
• Adhere to BOHCC’s confidentiality policies

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of community resources
• Experience with Case Management Software