Crisis Intervention Specialist; CIS

The Crisis Intervention Specialist provides hospital diversion and stabilization support to individuals enrolled in the Intensive Hospital Diversion (IHD) program or awaiting assessment by a Designated Crisis Responder. This position works under general supervision and delivers short-term, community-based support services that promote safety, reduce hospitalization, and assist individuals in accessing needed resources and care.

The Crisis Intervention Specialist is distinguished by its focus on hospital diversion, crisis stabilization, and coordination of community-based services under the direction of the Crisis Services Manager. Unlike clinical assessment or Designated Crisis Responder positions, this role provides non-clinical crisis support, safety monitoring, and practical assistance to help individuals remain stable in the least restrictive environment.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

• Coordinates with the Supervisor, DCRs, and agency staff to deliver hospital diversion and crisis intervention services, supporting stabilization in the least restrictive environment.
• Provides daily contact and crisis-stabilization support, including arranging emergency medications, coordinating transportation, and connecting individuals with needed services to reduce hospitalization risk.
• Assesses acute treatment needs and coordinates services with the primary DCR, medical staff, natural supports, and treatment providers to ensure unified crisis care across settings (home, nursing facility, transitional housing, motel, etc.).
• Identifies and collaborates with the individual’s care team, maintaining communication about treatment information and changes to support consistent interventions.
• Provides referrals to external community resources and coordinates inter-agency services when needs extend beyond agency programs to ensure continuity of care.
• Provides supportive services, including transportation for essential errands, assistance with Activities of Daily Living, and ensuring access to food to promote stabilization and safety.
• Seeks consultation and supervision from designated staff to confirm individuals are safe and receiving appropriate care during crisis intervention.
• Meets and maintains agency competency standards for service coding, billing, and documentation, ensuring regulatory and reimbursement compliance.
• Documents services accurately within established timelines to maintain complete and compliant client records per WAC, RCW, and contractual requirements.
• Provides services that respect individual rights, cultural needs, and primary language, supporting equitable and person-centered care.
• Participates in required trainings, meetings, and reviews, maintaining compliance with agency expectations and enhancing crisis-intervention skills.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in psychology, social services, behavioral health, or closely related field.
• Related experience providing direct services to individuals experiencing behavioral health needs.
• Experience responding to aggressive behaviors using least restrictive interventions.

Any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the necessary qualifications to successfully perform the duties of the position will be considered.

• Three years of related experience providing behavioral health or crisis-related services.
• Experience responding to mental health emergencies.
• Bilingual/Bicultural.
• Experience working in settings that…