The crisis worker connects clients in crisis with the appropriate level of mental health care. The crisis worker performs a risk assessment in an emergency room setting and makes recommendations for appropriate treatment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Use clinical judgment to make quick decisions in urgent situations with a large volume of patients. Complete appropriate documentation in effort to facilitate patient transfer to inpatient facility, including: USARF and Petition. Collaborate with medical professionals including Emergency Room Physicians, nurses, technicians, and psychiatry staff. Use de-escalation skills to assist in crisis interventions. Provide psychoeducation and bedside interventions to patients in the Emergency Department. Assist inpatient psychiatry team on medical floors with assessments and linkage to inpatient care. Assist in linkage by contacting appropriate resources, hospitals and agencies to link patient to additional care. Gather collateral information to assess the need for service, makes recommendations for treatment, identifies and investigates existing natural resources and supports. Work flexible schedules and be available to work on weekends or evenings as required.

EDUCATION

Must meet Office of Mental Health standards as a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP): Must have a Master’s degree in counseling/guidance, rehabilitation counseling, social work, vocational counseling, psychology, pastoral counseling, support system, therapy or related field and have completed a practicum or internship totaling 1000 hours or one year of work experience under a QMHP Candidates meeting rule 132 standards as a Licensed Professional in the Healing Arts (LPHA), such as Licensed Clinical Social Worker or Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor are preferred.

EXPERIENCE

Experience working with persons diagnosed with mental illness preferred. Knowledge of medical terms and ability to communicate with medical staff is strongly preferred. Ability to work as an effective team player.

REQUIREMENTS

COVID-19 Note: The Cook County Bureau of Human Resources (“BHR”) has adopted a mandatory vaccination policy requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for all County employees. This includes Thresholds employee's working in their facilities.