Crisis Access Counselor - 1st Shift (Remote in IL)

Join Our Mission to Transform Lives!

At Rosecrance, we’ve been leading the way in behavioral health services for over a century. Our team empowers individuals and families to overcome substance use and mental health challenges through compassionate care and evidence-based therapies. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact, we’re ready to welcome you! We are looking for dedicated individuals to join our team and help deliver on our mission of hope and recovery.

Position Summary

The Crisis Access Counselor plays a critical role in providing immediate, compassionate, and professional support to individuals experiencing emotional distress, behavioral health crises or acute psychological challenges. Serving as a first point of contact for individuals seeking help, the counselor is responsible for assessing the caller’s needs, offering crisis intervention, emotional support, and guidance, and connecting them to the appropriate resources or emergency services when necessary. This position requires excellent communication skills, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and a strong understanding of mental health issues and crisis management techniques. The Crisis Access Counselor must also maintain confidentiality, demonstrate empathy, and utilize active listening skills to de-escalate potentially harmful situations and ensure the safety and well-being of callers. The counselor works collaboratively with the Mobile Crisis Response team to ensure comprehensive care and transitional care as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or equivalent training or experience required
• Must qualify at a minimum as a MHP per Illinois Department of Health Rule 132
• Demonstrated experience in a contact center or remote-based counseling role preferred
• Experience in a behavioral healthcare setting preferred
• Knowledge of crisis de-escalation techniques and the ability to remain calm and composed in high-pressure situations
• Strong verbal communication skills, including the ability to convey information accurately over the phone
• Sound judgement to assess situations, determine the severity of crises, and take appropriate action, including referral to emergency services
• Working knowledge of contact center metrics, data management, and telephone systems
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Strong communication skills essential; adept at collaborating across departments and engaging with leadership at all levels.
• Strong computer skills required, including proficiency in operating various software applications, and navigating digital platforms effectively
• Belief in the mission and vision of Rosecrance

Responsibilities

1. Work hours prescribed by leadership and any additional hours deemed necessary for the responsibilities assigned. Some flexibility may be required for accomplishment of responsibilities.
2. Conduct assessments of callers in crisis to determine the severity of the situation, including potential risks to their safety
3. Provide immediate and appropriate crisis intervention, using de-escalation techniques to reduce emotional distress and promote safety.
4. Document client information and interactions in an Electronic Health Record
5. Employ active listening techniques to create a safe and supporting environment where callers feel heard, understood, and validated.
6. Conduct a seamless transition of caller to Mobile Crisis Response counselors, providing the team with geographic details, presenting issues, mental health status and other details
7. Identify and connect callers to relevant community resources, mental health services, or emergency services as necessary
8. Facilitate the seamless transition of care when needed, ensuring that the caller receives ongoing support, and that all relevant information is shared to maintain continuity.
9. Work with callers to develop safety plans when necessary, including coping strategies, emergency contacts, and steps to mitigate immediate risks.
10. Contact emergency services or healthcare providers when a caller’s safety is at risk and a higher level of intervention is required.
11. Monitor Mobile Crisis Response staff availability across assigned location and dispatch counselors based on their availability and geographic proximity.
12. Understand and comply with the principles established by the Rosecrance Corporate Compliance Program and Code of Conduct.
13. Perform all responsibilities in compliance with the mission, vision, values, and expectations of Rosecrance.
14. Able to provide culturally competent and exceptional customer service consistently to every customer.
15. Serve as a role model for other staff, clients and customers and demonstrate positive guest relations in representing Rosecrance.
16. Assume other related duties as assigned by leadership.

Schedule - 1st

• Shift: Tuesday - Saturday; 8:00Am - 4:30PM

Work Location

• Mostly Remote (eligible candidates must live in IL and be able to commute to Rockford)

Compensation & Rewards

• Base Pay: Starting at $43,908/year (pay is based on education, experience, and credentials)
• Shift differentials:
  • Second shift: +$1.00/hr.
  • Third shift: +$2.00/hr.

Our Benefits

Rosecrance values its employees and offers a comprehensive benefits package for you and your family:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (multiple plan options to meet your needs)
• 401(k) with employer match & discretionary contribution
• Group Life Insurance, LTD and AD&D
• Tuition assistance & licensure/certification reimbursement
• Paid Time Off, sick time, bereavement leave
• Referral program earning up to $1,000 per hire!
• Wellness program, including an on-site gym at select facilities
• Discounts at participating retailers
• Daily pay available through UKG Wallet for financial flexibility

Who We Are

Rosecrance has been at the forefront of providing behavioral health services for over a century. Our mission is to empower individuals and families to overcome substance abuse and mental health challenges through evidence-based therapies and compassionate care. Join us in our mission to foster lasting recovery and transform lives.

We are committed to providing careers that make a difference in the lives of the people we serve and the people we employ. We do this through the work we do, our core mission and values, our employee resources, and especially through our purpose-driven community of opportunity and hope.

Our Health and Safety Commitment

We maintain a zero-tolerance drug-free environment, including marijuana, to prioritize safety for staff and clients. All candidates must pass an occupational health screening, ensuring a secure and healthy workplace.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Rosecrance is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Our hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, skills, and experience relevant to the requirements of the position.

Our Partnerships

• AARP Employer Pledge Program
• MSEP (Military Spouse Employment Partnership).

Ready to Make a Difference?
Apply today and be part of something bigger! Your role at Rosecrance will help transform lives—starting with your own.

Click here to learn more about how to become a champion of hope.