Kitsap Mental Health Services·Bremerton, Washington
The role involves processing referrals, conducting intake assessments, and developing individualized Crisis Stabilization Plans for clients. It requires collaborating with EMS and multidisciplinary teams to provide short-term therapeutic interventions and stabilization services.
Kitsap Mental Health Services (KMHS) is hiring a Crisis Intake Mental Health Professional to join our Crisis Triage Center (CTC) team. In this role, you’ll receive and process referrals, complete intake assessments, and develop individualized Crisis Stabilization Plans for clients in crisis. You’ll collaborate closely with EMS, external referral partners, and the multidisciplinary CTC team to provide compassionate, timely, and effective stabilization services. This is a fast-paced, highly collaborative role where your expertise in crisis assessment and intervention will make a direct impact on client outcomes.
EDUCATION: Master’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Social Services, or behavioral health field EXPERIENCE: Completion of supervised clinical field practicum during graduate program or two (2) years’ experience working in behavioral health field prior to graduate degree. Experience with risk assessments, mental health assessments, and crisis intervention. LICENSURE Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration. Must meet and maintain the definition of a Mental Health Professional as defined in RCW 71.05.020.
EXPERIENCE: Experienced (2 years of job-related experienced). Two years of postgraduate, documented, supervised clinical experience with the chronically mentally ill, co-occurring mental health and substance use, and substance use- related disorders. Experience in crisis work, inclusive of inpatient settings, crisis residential settings or crisis outreach teams. Experience with crisis models of care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and co-occurring substance use disorders. LICENSURE: Ability to obtain or currently possess a Washington State associate or independent clinical license (LICSW-A, LMHC-A, LMFT-A, LICSW, LMHC, LMFT). Alternatively, must meet and maintain the definition of a Licensed Agency Affiliated Counselor (LAAC) as defined in RCW 18.19.215. Must maintain a Washington State Department of Health license in good standing. Performance Requirements: KNOWLEDGE: Maintain a working knowledge of current trends in community mental health, including health care reform and automation of job tasks using computer technology. Experience with the theory and practice of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and co-occurring substance use disorders SKILLS: Excellent interpersonal and verbal skills. Communicates clearly and concisely. Computer skills - The ability to operate a personal computer, fax machine, printer, and copier proficiently. ABILITIES: Ability to deescalate potentially volatile situations with clients. Ability to react quickly and perceive environmental stimuli accurately. Ability to assist in building positive working relationships with staff of all agency departments. Equipment Operated: Standard office equipment including computers, fax machines, copiers, printers, telephones, etc. Work Environment: Residential Treatment Facility. Frequent mobility and/or sitting required for extended periods. Mental/Physical Requirements: While performing the job duties, the employee is required to walk, sit, use hands and fingers. Reach with arms, talk, or listen. Peripheral vision is also required for this position. Frequent mobility and/or sitting required for extended periods. *A sign-on bonus is a form of compensation for a new employee in addition to their established salary. Bonus amounts are prorated by FTE, and any changes to FTE before all bonus installments are paid may alter the total payout. Our recruitment processes are designed to prevent discrimination against our people regardless of gender identity or orientation, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, citizenship, or any aspect which makes someone unique.
Candidates must hold a Master's degree in a behavioral health field and meet the definition of a Mental Health Professional per RCW 71.05.020. Experience in risk assessment and crisis intervention is required, with a preference for postgraduate supervised clinical experience.
Market context
Behavioral health positions in Washington are typically supported by steady demand from outpatient, community, and telehealth settings. These roles are competitive because employers often look for a current unrestricted clinical license, experience with evidence-based therapy, and the ability to work from a HIPAA-compliant home office. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly confirm fit, then verify your license status and prepare examples of your therapy approach before applying.
