Crisis Engagement Specialist

DGS – Delaware Guidance Services for Children and Youth, Inc.

Crisis Engagement Specialist – full‑time. Base pay range: $38,000 – $41,000 per year
.

About DGS

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. The organization is the only statewide not‑profit outpatient behavioral health organization for children and adolescents accredited by JCAHO. In 2020, we were honored as a Compassionate Champion for our dedication to serving youth and families using a trauma‑informed approach.

Clients and families receive outpatient counseling, group therapy, parent‑child interaction therapy, and school‑based services. Our mobile 24‑hour statewide Mobile Response and Stabilization Services (MRSS) dispatch skilled crisis intervention clinicians for immediate care to children experiencing behavioral health crises. Therapies address depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, traumatic stress‑related disorders, and suicidal ideation. In 2021, clinicians provided over 54,000 direct care hours.

More than 93% of clients report improvements. Our population is diverse: 80% Medicaid recipients, 90% with household incomes under $30,000. We serve all, regardless of insurance or ability to pay, and provide services tailored to child‑welfare‑involved families and foster youth.

Why Work at DGS?

• Competitive compensation
• Incentive pay for specific roles
• Generous paid time off (starting at 44 days per year)
• Up to 6% annual contribution to retirement fund
• Free professional development opportunities
• Medical, dental and vision insurance
• Life and long‑term disability insurance

Position Highlights

• Generous benefits and time‑off policies
• Mission‑driven work with children
• Signing bonus eligible

Summary/Objectives

Under the supervision of the Crisis Integrated Services Coordinator, the Engagement Specialist coordinates care and supports children and youth experiencing crises. The role conducts outreach and follow‑up to children and families who have engaged with crisis services, especially those who decline or disengage. Responsibilities include delivering evidence‑based Caring Contacts, reconnecting former clients, coordinating care, and fostering engagement through compassionate, proactive communication.

The ideal candidate has experience in crisis management, case management, or child/youth services, and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to support at‑risk youth.

Essential Functions

Caring Contacts and Crisis Reconnects

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

Client Engagement and Follow‑Up

• Reach out to children and families who decline or disengage from crisis services to encourage participation.
• Maintain contact to assess ongoing needs and provide referrals or follow‑up.
• Serve as the point of contact for post‑discharge engagement, ensuring continuity of care and client wellness.

System Engagement and Resource Coordination

• Collaborate with internal and external service providers to support client care plans and referrals.
• Coordinate services and follow‑up by phone and email, ensuring accurate and timely information exchange.
• Assist scheduling follow‑up appointments or connect families with ongoing mental health support.
• Act as liaison between the crisis program, community agencies, schools, and other stakeholders.
• Advocate for youth and families' needs within the program and external agencies.
• Identify and connect families to community resources such as counseling, housing, education, etc.
• Help families navigate insurance, legal, educational, and other social services.

Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date client interaction records and follow‑ups per program policies and state regulations.
• Prepare and submit regular case updates and reports, documenting progress, barriers, and recommendations.

Competencies / Capabilities

• Crisis Management – assess and manage urgent situations while providing support.
• Collaboration – strong teamwork…