BEHAVIOR HEALTH FIRST RESPONDER

Job Description

Job Description

Behavioral Health First Responder (BHFR)

Position Number: BH-1122-2
Department: BHH – New Perspectives
Reports To: Program Director
FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt

Schedule: TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY 430PM TO 1230AM

Position Purpose

The Behavioral Health First Responder (BHFR) provides direct crisis intervention services to individuals experiencing behavioral health emergencies within the community. Under the direction of management, the BHFR ensures compliance with all organizational policies, operating procedures, licensing requirements, and regulatory standards.

As part of New Perspectives' integrated behavioral health and crisis response model, BHFRs are cross-trained to provide services across multiple program areas, including Community Crisis Response, Crisis Residential, Crisis Telephone Services, and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The BHFR works collaboratively with consumers, natural supports, community providers, first responders, and other stakeholders to promote safety, stability, and access to appropriate behavioral health services.

Major ResponsibilitiesDirect Care Responsibilities

• Respond in person to behavioral health crisis requests from law enforcement, EMS, 911, 988, crisis centers, and other referral sources.
• Conduct behavioral health assessments to evaluate risk, level of need, and appropriate interventions.
• Safely manage crisis situations and provide de-escalation services utilizing trauma-informed and person-centered approaches.
• Deliver psychoeducation, skills training, supportive counseling, and crisis stabilization services within community settings.
• Transport consumers to safe environments or appropriate levels of care when necessary.
• Facilitate admissions to inpatient, residential, or crisis stabilization programs and coordinate referrals to community-based resources.
• Provide behavioral health consultation and support to first responders, including police, fire, rescue, and EMS personnel.
• Follow up with individuals after crisis resolution to promote engagement with recommended services and ensure ongoing safety.
• Provide coverage and support for Crisis Residential, Crisis Telephone, and 988 services as assigned by management.

Community-Based Crisis Response

The BHFR primarily delivers services within community settings and provides immediate intervention, stabilization, and support for individuals experiencing behavioral health crises.

Crisis Intervention & Assessment

• Conduct on-site assessments to determine risk factors, behavioral health needs, and appropriate levels of intervention.
• Develop safety plans and coordinate immediate support services.

Care Coordination & Referral Services

• Provide referrals and warm handoffs to community resources and treatment providers.
• Coordinate access to outpatient, inpatient, residential, substance use, and community support services.

Short-Term Support Services

• Provide brief follow-up and case management support to encourage successful linkage to recommended treatment and resources.

Transportation & Community Assistance

• Coordinate and/or provide transportation to safe locations and appropriate treatment settings when clinically appropriate and authorized.

Interagency Collaboration

• Partner with law enforcement, EMS, hospitals, treatment providers, county agencies, and community organizations to support coordinated crisis response efforts.

Clinical Consultation

• Collaborate with the Program Director, clinicians, and leadership team regarding high-risk, complex, or emergency situations requiring additional oversight.

Co-Responder Services

• Respond jointly with law enforcement, EMS, and other first responders when behavioral health expertise is needed to support crisis resolution and reduce unnecessary arrests or emergency department utilization.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Complete documentation, assessments, progress notes, and required reports in accordance with RHD policies, licensing standards, accreditation requirements, and funding source regulations.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with all HIPAA requirements.
• Attend required trainings, staff meetings, supervision sessions, and professional development activities.
• Maintain accurate records and utilize electronic systems for documentation, communication, scheduling, and timekeeping.

Education and Experience

Qualified candidates must meet one of the following requirements:

• Bachelor's degree preferred in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, Counseling, Nursing, Gerontology, Human Services, or a related field.
• Bachelor's degree in Anthropology, Political Science, History, Criminal Justice, Theology, Education, or a related field, plus two (2) years of behavioral health direct care experience.
• Licensed Registered Nurse (RN).
• High school diploma or equivalent, plus twelve (12) semester credit hours in Sociology, Psychology, Social Welfare, Gerontology, or another social science field, and two (2) years of human service experience, including one (1) year of direct mental health experience.
• Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of state-required automobile insurance.

Preferred Competencies

• Crisis intervention and de-escalation skills
• Knowledge of behavioral health and substance use treatment systems
• Strong assessment and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Cultural humility and trauma-informed care practices
• Knowledge of state and federal regulations related to crisis services
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills
• Effective conflict resolution and decision-making abilities
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and electronic documentation systems
• CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire)

This version is formatted more consistently, removes duplicate language, and aligns the position more closely with a community-based crisis responder role.