Crisis Therapist - 063015

The Crisis Therapist, under the direction of the Mental Health Department Manager, is responsible for addressing all crisis needs and calls within the facility. This position responds to crisis calls as they arise, screening and assessing residents for precautionary status and coordinating further psychiatric evaluations when medically necessary. The Crisis Therapist also assists with initial assessments to ensure that compliance timeframes are met, including the development of safety plans for youth at the time of admission.

Unlike Clinical Therapists who maintain caseloads, the Crisis Therapist does not carry ongoing cases or provide individual therapy sessions. Instead, the role is dedicated to immediate intervention, prevention, and resolution of crises. The Crisis Therapist is encouraged to participate actively in peace circles facilitated by operational leadership and to contribute to mentoring initiatives that support youth development and conflict resolution.

The overall focus of the Crisis Therapist is to provide timely intervention services designed to prevent and de-escalate incidents, reduce cycles of violence and retaliation, and support a safer environment within the facility. This is achieved through the application of evidence-based practices, including effective de-escalation strategies and intentional rapport-building with youth in crisis.