Crisis Support Specialist
The Opportunity Alliance
Summary
The Maine Crisis Line is seeking compassionate, resilient, and motivated individuals to join our team as Crisis Support Specialists. In this role, you will provide crisis intervention and support to individuals experiencing emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, mental health challenges, substance use concerns, and other behavioral health crises through phone, text, and chat interactions.
Job description
Make a Difference Every Day
The Maine Crisis Line is seeking compassionate, resilient, and motivated individuals to join our team as Crisis Support Specialists. In this role, you will provide crisis intervention and support to individuals experiencing emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, mental health challenges, substance use concerns, and other behavioral health crises through phone, text, and chat interactions.
Comprehensive Paid Training
No previous crisis line experience is required. New Crisis Support Specialists participate in a comprehensive six-week paid training program designed to prepare you for success in the role.
- Connection, active listening, and collaborative problem-solving skills
- Crisis intervention skills
- Suicide prevention and suicide screening
- Risk assessment and safety planning
- Resource navigation and referral practices
- Crisis line documentation and technology systems
- Phone, text, and chat-based crisis support
As a Crisis Support Specialist, You Will:
- Build rapport and engage effectively with callers through active listening, empathy, and collaborative problem-solving.
- Respond to crisis contacts by phone, text, and chat while providing emotional support, crisis intervention, and resource connection.
- Conduct suicide screenings and comprehensive risk assessments to evaluate safety concerns and determine appropriate interventions.
- Develop safety plans and assist individuals in identifying strengths, supports, and next steps.
- Utilize program systems and documentation tools to maintain accurate, timely, and thorough records.
- Collaborate with Crisis Response Services and community providers across Maine's eight crisis service districts to support positive outcomes.
- Meet established quality, performance, and service standards in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
Schedule
This is a full-time, 40-hour-per-week position hiring for afternoon, evening, and weekend hours.
Location
This position is fully remote within Maine. Applicants must reside in Maine, have reliable high-speed internet access, maintain a dedicated workspace that is quiet and free from distractions, and be able to attend an in-person orientation day in South Portland.
Requirements
- Associate's degree required
- One year or more of relevant experience preferred
- Ability to obtain MHRT-CSP certification within 30 days of hire (training provided)
- Strong communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment
- Ability to learn documentation systems, resource databases, and communication technology platforms
- Must successfully pass a criminal background, child protective service check & sex offender check
- Must not be on the state or federal suspension and disbarment list
- Must reside in Maine
- Reliable high-speed internet access
- Dedicated quiet workspace free from distractions
- Able to attend in-person orientation day in South Portland
Benefits
- Paid Time Off
- 9 Paid Holidays
- 3 Floating Holidays
- Medical Insurance
- Dental & Vision Insurance
- Basic Life Insurance
- STD & LTD Disability
- 403(b) Matching
- Tuition Reimbursement
- PSLF Eligible
Company overview
The Opportunity Alliance is a comprehensive community action agency and nonprofit organization dedicated to providing mental health care and social services to individuals and families in need. Operating primarily in Maine, the organization focuses on addressing the root causes of poverty and promoting community well-being through integrated service delivery. Their mental health care services encompass counseling, crisis intervention, substance abuse treatment, and support for individuals with mental health challenges. The organization takes a holistic approach to care, combining mental health services with housing assistance, employment support, educational programs, and family strengthening initiatives. As a community-based nonprofit, The Opportunity Alliance works collaboratively with local partners, government agencies, and healthcare providers to create a continuum of care that addresses both immediate needs and long-term solutions for vulnerable populations. Their mission centers on building stronger communities by empowering individuals to overcome barriers and achieve self-sufficiency through comprehensive support systems.