Designated Crisis Responder (DCR), Involuntary Commitment Specialist

About the role

The Behavioral Health and Recovery Division within King County's Department of Community and Human Services is seeking to hire up to 10 career service Designated Crisis Responders (DCR). One position is part-time (28.5 hours per week), and the remaining positions are full-time.

Responsibilities

• Investigate cases of adults and juveniles believed to have a behavioral health disorder and to be a danger to themselves, others, property, or who are gravely disabled.
• Determine whether these persons should be involuntarily detained for treatment under RCW 71.05 and RCW 71.34 and coordinate cases through the legal system.
• Provide investigation services for involuntary detention on a 24-hour-a-day basis and meet with and interview patients in various physical locations with difficult access.
• Anticipate and respond to threats by potentially hostile or violent patients.
• Ensure proper preparation and filing of legal papers, prepare declarations, serve subpoenas and notice of hearings, consult with King County Prosecuting Attorney and public defender, and testify in court if needed.
• Maintain all aspects of case files in a timely manner and communicate with colleagues to ensure efficiency and completeness of records.
• Advocate for patients to obtain appropriate treatment and continuity of care.
• Provide assistance in finding less-restrictive alternatives to involuntary detention.
• Educate patients' families, service agencies, and the community regarding clinical issues, legal issues, and treatment alternatives.
• Participate in training new colleagues in the field, when so assigned, as mutually agreed to by supervisor and training employee.
• Provide shadowing opportunities for community partners approved by management to shadow the DCR, as long as it does not impede with safety.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Must meet and maintain the definition of a Mental Health Professional as defined in WAC 246-341-0515. Within 90 days of hire, you must meet and maintain a Washington State Department of Health credential that satisfies the definition of MHP in good standing, or termination of probation will occur.
• At least two (2) years of relevant experience with direct evaluation and treatment of persons with mental illness.
• Be physically able to safely enter and rapidly exit residences throughout King County.
• Proficiency using MS Word, Outlook, and the Internet with the ability to learn electronic record systems.
• Pass annual safety training and all required trainings.
• Maintain a valid, unencumbered Washington State Driver's License.
• Knowledge of RCW 71.05 and RCW 71.34 and related WACs and the legal process of detention and commitment.
• Knowledge of social services network and programs/resources offering alternatives to involuntary detention.
• Knowledge and experience in direct treatment of people living with behavioral health disorders.
• Demonstrated crisis intervention skills.