Crisis Counselor of Project IMPACT- On Call - job 1 of 2

At Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, a Crisis Counselor is responsible for assessing individuals in crisis through intake evaluations and offering immediate interventions. These professionals work on the Project IMPACT team, connecting patients to vital resources in mental health and substance abuse services while ensuring their safety and wellbeing.

To qualify for the Crisis Counselor position at Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in a mental or behavioral health-related field, with a master's degree preferred. While licensure is preferred, it's not mandatory. One year of experience in the behavioral health field is also desirable.

Crisis Counselors at Project IMPACT can expect to work varying shifts from Monday through Sunday, covering both daytime (8 AM - 8:30 PM) and overnight (8 PM - 8:30 AM) hours. This flexibility in scheduling allows counselors to accommodate personal commitments while maintaining sufficient coverage.

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois is invested in the professional development of its Crisis Counselors. The organization offers comprehensive paid training, promotes from within, and provides opportunities for advancement, enabling counselors to build their careers while positively impacting the community.

Crisis Counselors at Lutheran Social Services of Illinois enjoy a competitive benefits package, which includes healthcare insurance, a generous amount of paid time off, 11 paid holidays, sick time, and a 403(b) pension plan. They may also benefit from flexible paydays and an overnight pay premium, enhancing their overall job satisfaction.

Within the multidisciplinary team at Project IMPACT, a Crisis Counselor collaborates with various health professionals to ensure coordinated care for patients in crisis. They share information, conduct assessments, and develop safety plans, all aimed at meeting the diverse needs of individuals experiencing behavioral health challenges.

Successful Crisis Counselors at Lutheran Social Services of Illinois possess strong communication and documentation skills, the ability to adapt to fast-paced environments, and a deep understanding of equity and inclusion. Additionally, familiarity with Electronic Health Record systems and a basic knowledge of Medicaid and Medicare are advantageous.

When handling a crisis situation, it’s vital to remain calm and composed. Begin by assessing the immediate needs of the patient, ensuring their safety is the top priority. Utilize active listening to understand their feelings and concerns, then engage collaboratively in creating a plan of action that respects their autonomy while providing necessary support.

In your response, focus on specific scenarios where you've completed behavioral health assessments. Highlight your understanding of various assessment tools and your ability to analyze information to inform treatment decisions. Be sure to mention how you've integrated patient history and presentation in your evaluations.

It's crucial to articulate your familiarity with HIPAA regulations, emphasizing the importance of patient confidentiality and data protection. Describe your experience in handling sensitive information and how you ensure compliance with HIPAA during assessments and interactions with patients.

Explain your time management strategies, such as prioritizing tasks, utilizing digital tools for scheduling and tracking progress, and setting specific goals for each patient. Discuss how you maintain thorough documentation to keep track of each individual's needs and treatment plans effectively.

Use a specific example to illustrate your teamwork skills. Highlight your role, the professionals you collaborated with, and how you communicated effectively to ensure a coordinated care approach. Discuss the successful outcomes of this collaboration regarding patient treatment and support.

Building rapport is essential in crisis counseling. Discuss techniques like active listening, validating feelings, showing empathy, and being genuine. Offer examples of how these methods have helped you connect with patients and facilitated better communication.

Discuss your strategies for managing stress, such as taking breaks when needed, practicing mindfulness techniques, and maintaining a support network. Emphasize your adaptability and how you thrive in dynamic situations, focusing on patient care and outcomes.

Articulate the key qualities you consider vital for a Crisis Counselor, such as empathy, resilience, and strong problem-solving skills. Provide examples of how you exemplify these traits in your interactions with patients and their families.

Address this question by explaining your approach to building trust and understanding the patient's concerns. Discuss techniques such as motivational interviewing to encourage engagement and how you would work to ensure that the patient feels comfortable and respected in exploring their options.

Share your motivations for entering the field of crisis counseling, whether it be personal experiences, a passion for mental health advocacy, or a commitment to helping others navigate challenging times. Highlight how this inspiration drives your work and commitment to make a difference.