Crisis Training Specialist

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Obtains and maintains instructor/trainer level certification in CPI Nonviolent Crisis Intervention, Ukeru, AHA BLS, and other crisis prevention, de-escalation, or safety curricula designated by DWIHN.
• Design, implement, and evaluate a training curriculum for all Crisis Services staff, including new hire orientation and ongoing annual training.
• Facilitate training in crisis intervention models (e.g., CPI Nonviolent Crisis Intervention, Ukeru, or agency-approved equivalents).
• Deliver instructions in trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, de-escalation techniques, and person-centered practices.
• Develop and update training materials, manuals, a competency checklist, and learning modules.
• Cohordinate and schedule mandatory annual refresher trainings and certifications for all Crisis Services Staff.
• Facilitate tabletop exercises, simulation scenarios, and skills demonstrations to reinforce real-world crisis response competencies.
• Ensure all training meets federal, state, local regulatory requirements, and accreditation body requirements.
• Maintain accurate training records and certification logs.
• Conduct needs assessments and gap analysis to identify training priorities based on incident reports, audits, and supervisor feedback.
• Collaborate with the Quality Improvement Team to integrate findings from critical incident reviews into training content.
• Serve as an on-site resource for staff navigating complex crisis situations, offering real-time coaching and debriefing.
• Partner with leadership to identify staff development needs and create targeted learning plans.
• Facilitate post-incident debriefs and support staff wellness following high-acuity events.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong facilitation and public speaking abilities to engage diverse audiences,
• Proficiency in developing curriculum, competency assessments, and training materials,
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills,
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and learning management systems,
• Cultural competency,
• Strong organizational skills,
• Multitasking skills,
• Teamwork skills,
• Project management skills.

Required Education

• A high school diploma or equivalent required;
• An Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred;
• Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, Nursing, or related behavioral health.

Required Experience

• Minimum of three (3) years of direct experience in crisis services, behavioral health, direct care, or human service settings.
• Demonstrated ability to facilitate groups, public speaking, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated experience with, or ability to obtain and maintain, instructor/trainer certifications in approved de-escalation techniques (e.g., CPI Nonviolent Crisis Intervention, Ukeru).
• Demonstrated experience with, or ability to obtain and maintain, instructor certification for American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS).

Physical Demands

• Training delivery requires the ability to physically demonstrate and practice crisis intervention techniques, including verbal and physical de-escalation, release, and support techniques.
• May require frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and getting up from and down to the floor, as well as lifting, supporting, or assisting another adult with their body weight during training demonstrations.
• May be required to lift up to 20 pounds.

Work Environment

• Training is conducted in classroom and simulation/practice settings across DWIHN programs and facilities.
• May have contact with individuals who are agitated and/or confused during role-play and simulation exercises.