Crisis Engagement Specialist

About Delaware Guidance Services

Delaware Guidance Services for Children and Youth, Inc. (DGS) is the largest provider of outpatient behavioral health services to children and families in Delaware. We operate offices in Wilmington, Newark, Dover, Lewes, and Seaford and are the only statewide not‑for‑profit outpatient behavioral health organization for children and adolescents accredited by JCAHO. DGS offers outpatient counseling, group therapy, parent‑child interaction therapy, and school‑based services.

Our mobile response and stabilization services (MRSS) dispatch crisis clinicians statewide. Therapeutic options span a wide range of diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, traumatic stress‑related disorders, and suicidal ideation. In 2021, DGS clinicians provided over 54,000 direct care hours. Our client population is racially and ethnically diverse; 80% are Medicaid recipients and 90% have household incomes under $30,000.

We serve anyone in need, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay, and offer services specifically tailored to child welfare‑involved families and foster youth.

• Competitive Compensation
• Incentive Pay for Specific Roles
• Generous Paid Time Off (starting at 44 days of paid leave a year)
• Up to 6% Annual Contribution to Your Retirement Fund
• Free Professional Development Opportunities
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Life and Long‑term Disability Insurance

• Generous benefits and time off policies
• Ability to work with children through a mission‑driven organization
• Signing Bonus Eligible

Under the supervision of the Crisis Integrated Services Coordinator, the Engagement Specialist coordinates care and provides support to children and youth experiencing crises. The role involves outreach and follow‑up to families who have engaged with crisis services, especially those who decline or disengage; it also delivers evidence‑based Caring Contacts, reconnects former clients, and fosters engagement through compassionate, proactive communication. Ideal candidates have experience in crisis management, case management, or child/youth services and can collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support at‑risk youth in Delaware.

• Implement the Caring Contacts protocol via phone, mailers, and electronic communication to reduce suicide risk.
• Make supportive outreach to discharged clients at designated intervals post‑treatment.

• Conduct outreach to children and families who decline or disengage from crisis services.
• Maintain contact with former clients and families to assess ongoing needs and provide referrals or follow‑up.
• Serve as a point of contact for post‑discharge engagement, ensuring continuity of care and supporting client wellness.

• Collaborate with internal and external providers to support client care plans and address immediate needs.
• Coordinate services and follow‑up by phone and email, ensuring accurate and timely information exchange.
• Assist in scheduling follow‑up appointments or connecting families with ongoing mental health support.
• Serve as a liaison between the crisis program, community agencies, schools, and other stakeholders to integrate services effectively.
• Advocate for the needs of youth and families within the program and with external agencies.
• Identify community resources and support services such as mental health counseling, housing, and educational support.
• Help youth and families navigate systems, including insurance, legal, educational, and other social services.

• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records of all client interactions and collateral follow‑ups.
• Prepare and submit regular case updates and reports, including documentation of progress, barriers, and recommendations.

• Crisis Management – assess and manage urgent, high‑stress situations while providing emotional support.
• Collaboration – strong teamwork and interpersonal skills with diverse stakeholders.
• Problem Solving – think critically and find solutions quickly in…