Crisis Advocate

Crisis Advocate, Crisis Advocacy Response Effort (C.A.R.E.)

The C.A.R.E. Crisis Advocate reports to the Mobile Crisis department manager and completes triage screening, assists with deescalation of crisis, completes safety planning, and support to clients by providing community referrals as indicated. The individual works in collaboration with Des Moines Police Department (DMPD) dispatch and other department area staff to provide Behavioral Health support.

Characteristic Duties

• Receives transferred mental or behavioral health component calls from 911 dispatch.
• Begins initial triage screening-and psychosocial assessment for clients; documents assessment within client record in a timely manner.
• Performs assessment/data collection in an ongoing and systematic manner, focusing on environmental, self-care, and education, identifying potential barriers, disposition options and appropriate community resources in maintaining positive health.
• Provides a response and interim plan to clients with an identified need.
• Formulates an individualized, and age-appropriate safety plan.
• Establishes contact with appropriate individuals from client's support system or identified professionals.
• Interacts with clients to provide ongoing assessment, support and motivational interviewing.
• Attends team meetings and actively participates in the development of the multi-disciplinary treatment for each client, including formulation of appropriate and measurable goals.
• Assist in the development and participates in programming for clients.
• Obtains and/or provides transportation for clients.
• Maintains accurate and timely documentation of all services provided in accordance with department standards and regulations.
• Develops and maintains awareness of broad spectrum of community resources and knowledge of how to access them as needed by clients.
• Provides referrals to BMC and community resources as appropriate.
• Provides back-up to other Community Crisis department positions as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in human services or related field from an accredited educational program.
• 2+ years working with individuals with chronic mental illness.
• Valid Iowa Driver's License and ability to transport clients.
• Ability to pass Des Moines Police Department background check and fingerprinting. May not be convicted of a felony crime.
• Ability to work cooperatively with the multi-disciplinary team and in a high stress environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to verbally and physically de-escalate a client utilizing BMC trained programs.
• Ability to complete electronic charting and documentation.

Work Shift: 2p-12:30a (United States of America)

Benefits (FT/PT)

• Retirement - IPERS
• Education Assistance
• Employee Health & Wellness
• PTO
• Free Parking
• Health Insurance
• Supplemental Insurance
• 529 College Savings Plan
• And more!

Broadlawns Medical Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer