CRISIS WORKER

Crisis Worker

At Insight Hospital and Medical Center Chicago, we believe there is a better way to provide quality healthcare while achieving health equity. Our Chicago location looks forward to working closely with our neighbors and residents, to build a full-service community hospital in the Bronzeville area of Chicago; creating a comprehensive plan to increase services and meet community needs. With a growing team that is dedicated to delivering world-class service to everyone we meet, it is our mission to deliver the most compassionate, loving, expert, and impactful care in the world to our patients. Be a part of the Insight Chicago team that provides patient care second to none! If you would like to be a part of our future team, please apply now!

Job Overview

This department runs 24/7 and is currently seeking an overnight employee (11pm-7am). The Crisis Worker is responsible for providing immediate support, intervention, and stabilization to individuals experiencing emotional, psychological, or situational crises. This role involves assessing the needs of individuals in distress, offering emotional support, connecting clients to necessary resources, and ensuring safety and well-being during crises. The Crisis Worker must be able to respond quickly, empathetically, and effectively, often working in high-pressure situations. These duties are to be performed in a highly confidential manner, following the mission, values, and behaviors of Insight Hospital and Medical Center. Employees are further expected to provide a high quality of care, service, and kindness toward all patients, staff, physicians, volunteers, and guests.

Key Responsibilities

• Crisis Intervention: Assess the situation and evaluate the level of crisis (e.g., emotional, mental health, substance abuse, or personal safety concerns). Provide direct crisis intervention via phone, in-person, or virtually. Offer immediate emotional support and help clients to manage feelings of distress, anxiety, or confusion. Assist clients in developing coping strategies and safety plans.
• Client Assessment and Case Management: Perform comprehensive assessments to identify client needs, risks, and appropriate interventions. Develop crisis intervention plans and document interactions in accordance with agency policies and legal requirements. Collaborate with other mental health professionals, social workers, and medical staff as needed. Connect clients to appropriate resources such as mental health services, shelters, social services, or emergency medical care.
• Safety and Risk Management: Ensure the safety of clients, family members, and staff during crises. If necessary, assist with transporting clients to emergency services (e.g., emergency rooms, psychiatric hospitals). Identify potential risks of harm to self or others and take appropriate steps to mitigate those risks (e.g., by involving law enforcement or emergency responders).
• Crisis De-escalation: Use de-escalation techniques to diffuse tense or volatile situations and manage clients exhibiting agitation, aggression, or self-harm tendencies. Maintain composure in high-pressure situations, using empathy and active listening to help clients feel understood and supported.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate, detailed, and confidential records of all client interactions. Write reports and case notes as required for legal, medical, and internal agency purposes. Ensure compliance with all legal, ethical, and regulatory standards in crisis response and documentation.
• Collaboration and Communication: Work as part of an interdisciplinary team to provide comprehensive crisis care and follow-up services. Communicate effectively with clients, families, and other professionals, ensuring that all parties are informed and involved in the care process.
• Education and Training: Provide information and resources to clients and their families on how to cope with or prevent future crises. Participate in ongoing training, supervision, and professional development to stay informed about crisis intervention techniques and mental health trends.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, sociology, nursing, or a related field (required). A Master's degree or clinical licensure (e.g., LCSW, LPC, LMFT) is a plus.
• Previous experience in crisis intervention, mental health counseling, social work, or a related field (preferred).
• Experience with de-escalation techniques and conflict resolution.
• Familiarity with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance abuse.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to interact with individuals in a calm, empathetic, and professional manner.
• Ability to handle high stress, emotionally charged situations with composure and tact.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of mental health resources, community services, and emergency procedures.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing situations and client needs.

Certifications (preferred, depending on role):

• CPR and First Aid Certification.
• Crisis Intervention Training (e.g., CPI, Nonviolent Crisis Intervention).
• Mental Health First Aid certification.
• Suicide Prevention Certification (e.g., ASIST, QPR).

Working Conditions

• Work may involve irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, or on-call shifts, depending on the organization's needs.
• The role may involve responding to emergency situations in a variety of settings, including clients' homes, shelters, hospitals, or community centers.
• The work environment may include exposure to emotionally intense situations and individuals in distress.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to [X] pounds if necessary (e.g., to assist with moving clients or equipment).
• Ability to remain calm and focused during stressful or high-pressure situations.

Benefits

• Paid Sick Time - effective 90 days after employment
• Paid Vacation Time - effective 90 days after employment
• Health, vision & dental benefits - eligible at 30 days, following the 1st of the following month
• Short and long-term disability and basic life insurance - after 30 days of employment

Insight Employees are required to be vaccinated for COVID-19 as a condition of employment, subject to accommodation for medical or sincerely held religious beliefs.

Insight is an equal opportunity employer and values workplace diversity!