Mental Health Victim Specialist

We are the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office (CCSAO), a diverse and dedicated team of professionals committed to justice and safety for over five-million residents. As the second-largest prosecutor’s office in the U.S., the CCSAO prosecutes criminal and regulatory violations across six bureaus and four units with a staff of over 1,200.

Our Mission

To uphold justice and public safety in Cook County by fairly, ethically, and effectively prosecuting crime, supporting victims, and protecting the rights of all residents.

About the role

In accordance with state and federal statutes governing victims’ rights, the Mental Health Victim Specialist delivers comprehensive services, support, and advocacy to victims and survivors of violent crime. The Mental Health Victim Specialist provides crisis intervention and case management to victims who have experienced poly-victimization and acute trauma, supplemental court-related assistance, and emotional support. The Specialist also provides outreach, community linkages, and other supportive services to victims of crime.

Reports to: Deputy Bureau Chief
Location: 555 W. Harrison St. – Domestic Violence Courthouse
Classification: Grade 18 / Full-time / Union
Division: Victim Services Bureau

Responsibilities

• Provide trauma-informed services, support, advocacy, and case management to victims, witnesses, and survivors of crime.
• Assess victim needs, determine eligibility for available services or programs, and make appropriate referrals.
• Conduct comprehensive intakes, complete safety assessments, and develop individualized safety and service plans.
• Deliver emotional support, referrals to appropriate community resources, and intensive crisis intervention, including emergency crisis intervention and linkage to emergency services.
• Collaborate with State’s Attorney’s Office (SAO) colleagues to address safety concerns and support prosecution efforts.
• Build and maintain a network of community-based advocates, government agencies, and partner organizations to expand referral options for victims. Collaborate with partner agencies on a regular basis and conduct warm handovers between victims and service providers.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date case information and coordinate with team members to ensure consistent support for victims.
• Provide ongoing follow-up to ensure continued support, safety, and case-related updates to victims. Ensure victims and witnesses are informed of their rights, available resources, and the criminal justice process.
• Coordinate transportation and related logistics for victims and witnesses as needed.
• Attend meetings and trainings, as needed.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Maintain program statistics, case documentation, and prepare regular activity reports.
• Deliver training to SAO colleagues and partner agencies on the Victim Services Bureau and the role of the Victim Specialist, as well as topics around trauma, polyvictimization, and the criminal court system.
• Work a flexible schedule based on unit needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in social work or a related field (counseling, criminal justice, etc.).
• Active mental health license (e.g., LSW, LPC, LCPC, LCSW, LMFT, etc.).
• Clinical training and experience in trauma assessment and treatment.
• Experience with assessment, case planning, crisis intervention, and case management skills.
• Empathetic listener with knowledge of victims’ rights as defined by state and national law.
• Excellent grammar, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours and travel to other courthouse locations as needed.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications.
• Ability to work independently, multi-task, and demonstrate cultural competency.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with victims of violent crime and/or protective orders.
• Experience collaborating with community-based service providers.
• Knowledge of CCSAO databases and/or ability to learn quickly.
• Bilingual proficiency (especially Spanish, Polish, Arabic).

Physical Requirements

Light Work: The position requires the ability to stand or walk frequently, often for extended periods. You may need to lift, carry, push, or pull objects weighing up to 20 pounds regularly, and occasionally heavier items. The job may also involve a significant amount of walking or standing relative to sedentary roles.

Pay

$79,895 (entry-level salary; may vary for internal candidates).

Schedule

Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.