Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the complex and often challenging world of crisis management, the need for skilled Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistants is paramount.

As societal pressures grow and mental health issues rise, the demand for compassionate, proficient individuals who can effectively navigate these challenging circumstances and provide essential support continues to surge.

But what exactly is expected from a Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring professional seeking to understand the demands and nuances of this role,
• A recruitment officer mapping out the ideal characteristics of a potential hire,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of crisis intervention counseling,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we are presenting a customizable Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant job description template, intended for easy posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistants provide essential support to Crisis Intervention Counselors, helping in the provision of immediate, short-term help to individuals who experience an event that produces emotional, mental, physical, and behavioral distress or problems.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assisting Crisis Intervention Counselors during the assessment of clients’ mental health, social, and emotional needs
• Providing comfort and reassurance to individuals in crisis situations
• Helping in the development and implementation of treatment plans
• Monitoring and documenting clients’ progress towards their recovery goals
• Assisting in the coordination and scheduling of appointments for clients with other mental health professionals
• Providing information and resources to clients regarding mental health services and community resources
• Maintaining client confidentiality and adhering to professional ethics
• Supporting the counseling team in the management of crisis situations, under supervision
• Helping in administrative tasks including record keeping, writing reports, and filing
• Participating in meetings, workshops, and seminars for professional development

 

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant to support our team in delivering quality care to individuals in crisis.

The Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant will help in coordinating resources, offering emotional support, and implementing crisis intervention plans under the guidance of a Crisis Intervention Counselor.

The ideal candidate has experience in mental health support roles and exhibits excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist Crisis Intervention Counselors in providing immediate support to individuals experiencing a crisis.
• Help in coordinating resources and services needed for client care.
• Provide emotional support and reassurance to individuals in crisis.
• Support in implementing and monitoring crisis intervention plans.
• Document all client interactions and progress accurately.
• Participate in team meetings and trainings as required.
• Maintain client confidentiality and comply with all ethical guidelines and standards.
• Support in conducting initial client assessments and follow-up sessions.

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a mental health support role, preferably in crisis intervention.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling or related field.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to stay calm and composed under pressure.
• Understanding of crisis intervention techniques and ethical guidelines.
• Compassionate and empathetic with a strong desire to help others in need.
• Must pass a criminal background check.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant
• Work Environment: Office setting, with potential for on-site visits when necessary.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Crisis Intervention Counselor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant Do?

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistants work under the supervision of Crisis Intervention Counselors or other mental health professionals to provide support to individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis.

They assist in assessing the individual’s immediate safety needs and provide appropriate referrals to community resources.

This can include arranging for hospitalization, setting up appointments with social workers or mental health professionals, or connecting the individual with housing or financial assistance programs.

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistants often provide emotional support and help to deescalate the situation.

They listen to the individual, validate their feelings, and provide reassurance.

They may also assist in developing safety plans, which are personalized plans that outline what the individual can do to stay safe during a crisis.

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistants may work in a variety of settings, including crisis hotlines, mental health clinics, hospitals, or social service agencies.

They are essential in providing immediate aid and relief to individuals in crisis, often acting as the first point of contact for individuals seeking help.

 

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant Qualifications and Skills

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistants are crucial for providing support and assistance in high-stress situations.

The required skills and qualifications for this role include:

• Excellent listening skills to accurately understand the feelings, thoughts and needs of individuals in crisis.
• Strong communication skills to relay vital information between individuals in crisis and the primary counselor, as well as to provide clear instructions and guidance to those in need.
• Ability to stay calm and composed during high-stress situations, and to help individuals in crisis do the same.
• Understanding of psychological principles and therapeutic techniques, typically gained through relevant education and training.
• Problem-solving skills to help individuals in crisis navigate difficult situations and find solutions to immediate problems.
• Empathy and emotional intelligence to connect with individuals in crisis and provide support that is sensitive to their emotional state and experiences.
• Patient and resilient, able to manage stress and maintain a positive, supportive demeanor even in challenging situations.
• Experience or willingness to learn about specific populations or types of crises, such as domestic violence, mental health emergencies, or substance abuse.

 

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant Experience Requirements

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistants are typically required to have a solid background in the mental health field, which may involve an internship or part-time role in a related area.

This could include working in a mental health clinic, social services agency, hospital, or similar setting.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of relevant experience working with individuals in crisis, mental health patients or vulnerable populations.

They may have gained this experience through roles such as Mental Health Technician, Social Services Assistant, or Case Worker.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience often have increased responsibilities in their roles, such as conducting initial assessments, assisting with crisis intervention strategies, and collaborating with other health professionals.

This provides them with a deeper understanding of crisis intervention techniques and protocols.

Those with more than 3 years of experience are likely to have a strong understanding of ethical and legal considerations in mental health care and may have experience in case management or group therapy sessions.

They may also have had the opportunity to lead crisis intervention training sessions or contribute to the development of crisis intervention plans and policies.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may have demonstrated leadership abilities and could be ready for a supervisory role within a crisis intervention team.

They may have experience overseeing the work of other counselors, coordinating services with other agencies, and managing crisis situations effectively.

 

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant Education and Training Requirements

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistants typically have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field.

In their degree program, they gain foundational knowledge about human behavior and development, counseling techniques, and crisis management principles.

Further, they must have a strong understanding of mental health issues, substance abuse, and family dynamics, which is often gained through internships or supervised practicums during their studies.

Certifications are not typically required, but they can enhance a candidate’s profile.

These could be in areas such as addiction counseling, trauma response, or crisis management.

Some positions may prefer or require candidates with a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, particularly for roles that involve more complex crisis intervention strategies.

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistants should also have strong communication and problem-solving skills, and a commitment to ongoing professional development in order to keep abreast of the latest strategies and techniques in crisis management.

 

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant Salary Expectations

A Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant can expect to earn an average salary of $40,000 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can vary greatly depending on the individual’s experience, educational background, geographical location, and the specific requirements of the employing organization.

 

Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant need?

A Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant needs to be patient and empathetic, as they will often deal with individuals undergoing severe stress or trauma.

Excellent communication and active listening skills are necessary to understand the needs of the person seeking help.

They should also have good problem-solving abilities to provide immediate solutions or resources.

 

What kind of education is necessary for a Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant?

A bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field is often required for a Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant.

Some positions may prefer candidates with a master’s degree or relevant certifications.

Training in crisis intervention techniques is typically necessary.

 

What should you look for in a Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant’s resume?

Look for evidence of a background in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field, along with any specialized crisis intervention training.

Relevant work experience, such as in a hospital, mental health facility, or crisis hotline, is also important.

Certifications in crisis intervention or related areas can be an added bonus.

 

What qualities make a good Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant?

A good Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistant is empathetic, patient, and able to remain calm and composed during stressful situations.

They should be able to communicate effectively and be good at problem-solving.

Resilience is also important, as they will need to cope with emotionally challenging situations.

 

Is it difficult to hire Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistants?

Hiring Crisis Intervention Counselor Assistants can be challenging.

The work is emotionally demanding and requires individuals with a strong educational background, professional experience, and personal resilience.

However, many candidates are motivated by the opportunity to make a significant difference in people’s lives.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a detailed look into the rewarding world of a crisis intervention counselor assistant.

And guess what?

It’s not just about offering support.

It’s about empowering individuals in crisis, one conversation at a time.

With our comprehensive crisis intervention counselor assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make a difference.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every conversation you have can change someone’s world.

Let’s make that difference. Together.

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