Crisis Intervention Specialist II

Make a Difference with DHSS

Our mission at the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) is to improve the quality of life of Delaware citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. We prioritize personal and family independence by assisting individuals and families in a variety of life areas.

We offer numerous career opportunities and are dedicated to attracting and retaining highly talented individuals who are ready to make a difference in their community today. DHSS is a great place to kick‑start your profession. For more information, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). today!

The incumbent in this position will be working with clients suffering from severe and persistent mental illness and substance abuse issues both on a 24‑hour hotline, and in the community. Responsibilities include individual counseling, crisis counseling and assessments, and monitoring client psychiatric symptoms. The incumbent will consult with an interdisciplinary team, the consumer, consumer partners, and external agencies as necessary to promote person‑centered recovery goals.

Applicants hired as a Crisis Intervention Specialist II will perform duties as a Credentialed Mental Health Screener. The incumbent is considered essential personnel and must report to work in a state of emergency, while working a rotating schedule.

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, employees can complete job duties of a similar kind not specifically listed here. This class works rotating shifts (days, evenings, and overnights), weekends, and holidays to meet the operational needs of the program.

These positions are designated as Essential Personnel and is required to report to work regardless of weather or State of Emergency.

• Delivers acute crisis intervention services, reviewing each case to initiate care and determine the appropriate clinical response, in compliance with agency, state, and federal, laws, rules, regulations, professional mandates, and best practices.
• Participates as a member of a crisis team answering crisis hot-line calls, performing on-site assessments for walk-ins, and providing mobile crisis response in the community which includes unknown and unpredictable situations; interacts with local law enforcement or other related agencies.
• Conducts rapid mental health screening and evaluations of patients, clients, family members, and/or any other individuals experiencing an acute behavioral health crisis.
• Uses de‑escalation techniques and takes appropriate action/intervention while maintaining the safety of individuals served, crisis staff, and the community.
• Provides guidance, consultation, and education on crisis interventions, client/family needs and challenges, available resources, and other related matters; and promotes positive interactions among family members.
• Makes recommendations to ensure a continuum of care after the initial crisis is stabilized, provides follow‑up support and monitoring, and completes referrals to mental health and/or substance use treatment facilities or other services.
• Advocates for clients and families in the protection of rights; obtains consent for treatment, Releases of Information, and other necessary forms.
• Completes continuing education to remain current on crisis intervention and response methods, techniques, and best practices. This includes becoming a Delaware Credentialed Mental Health Screener (DE‑CMHS) and completing necessary continuing education to maintain this credential.
• Prepares and submits summaries and reports that clearly and accurately document each case, resulting action/intervention, and other relevant information in compliance with state and federal requirements.
• Uses automated information systems and computer software to research, review, analyze, document, and report on health/human services information.
• May participate in community…