Crisis Counselor
First Choice Services is a nonprofit that operates several free helplines across multiple states, with the common goal of making behavioral health and social services easier to access and navigate. Based in Charleston, WV, we’re looking for kind, empathetic, and driven individuals to join our team.
About the role
Crisis Counselors answer 988 (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) calls, chats, and texts. You’ll provide crisis intervention, suicide prevention support, and brief supportive counseling to individuals experiencing emotional crisis. The role requires empathy, patience, active listening, strong customer service skills, and attention to detail to help visitors regain safety, return to normal functioning, and access ongoing treatment as needed.
Responsibilities
- Answer incoming calls, chats, or texts
- Document visitor interactions in appropriate systems
- Input call/chat/text reports into systems
- Conduct follow-up calls when appropriate
Requirements
- High School Diploma or equivalent (four-year degree in social or behavioral health services preferred; licensure given special consideration)
- Strong emotional fortitude and self-awareness to determine if the position is the right fit
- Ability to pass a background check and pre-employment drug screen (post-offer)
- Ability to work assigned shift with reliable transportation
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Computer and typing skills for continuous computer work
- Passion for helping others in suicide prevention, mental health, and addiction
Benefits
- Competitive wages
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Short- and long-term disability insurance
- Basic and voluntary life insurance
- Paid time off package, floating holiday, and holiday pay
- 401(k) with company match after 1 year of service
- Massage chairs, quiet rooms, and VR headsets
- Outreach opportunities and discounted YMCA gym membership
- Employee engagement events
- Rewarding work in a fun environment with a supportive team
These are full-time, in-office positions located in Fairmont and Charleston, WV.