Behavior Health First Responder

Position Summary

The Behavior Health First Responder (BHFR) provides direct services to consumers and their natural supports during a behavioral health crisis in the community. Under the authority of Management, the BHFR ensures that all operating procedures and regulations are followed.

Program Summary

RHD has partnered with the Allegheny County Department of Human Services to launch A-Team, a pilot program using the Alternative Response Model of mobile crisis intervention. This program aims to enhance the current emergency response system for 911 calls.

The A-Team consists of mental and behavioral health professionals with diverse backgrounds and specialized expertise. Each member undergoes extensive training in crisis intervention and de-escalation, preparing them to handle challenging situations effectively. They bring a wide range of skills, including therapeutic techniques, conflict resolution, cultural competency, and collaboration with other stakeholders. Together, the A-Team is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to individuals in crisis, promoting positive outcomes and community well-being.

Essential Duties and Functions

Direct Care

• Respond in-person to incoming behavioral health calls from 911.
• Conduct behavioral health assessments for consumers in crisis.
• Crisis manages the scene safely.
• Conduct psycho-educational, skills training, and supportive crisis counseling in the community.
• Transport consumers to a safer situation including bed-based levels of care.
• Facilitate admission to bed-based care or complete referrals to community resources.
• Support other first responders (police, fire/rescue, and EMS) with behavioral health emergencies.
• Follow up with consumers after the crisis to ensure they are safe and able to connect to needed treatment and resources.

Administrative

• Complete all documentation as required by RHD, Funder, licensing/accreditation entities.

Community Interaction

• Community Involvement and teamwork including but not limited to providing referral and other case management services for consumers and families at times of contact, either on the phone, in the community, or with the resident prior to discharge.
• Represent the program and RHD at community events.
• Other duties as assigned

Essential Duties Addendum for New Perspectives Alternative Dispatch Team

• Conduct psycho-educational, skills training, and supportive crisis counseling in the community.
• Complete Safety Plan and C-SSRS as possible
• Transport/facilitate admissions of consumers to a safer situation including bed-based levels of care- may include the Crisis Residential Program.
• Complete referrals to community resources.
• Support other first responders (police, fire/rescue, and EMS) with behavioral health emergencies.
• Follow up with consumers after the crisis to ensure they are safe and able to connect to needed treatment and resources.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with major coursework in sociology, social work, psychology, gerontology, anthropology, political science, history, criminal justice, theology, nursing, counseling, education, or a related field. OR High School diploma with 12 semester credits in a human service field and 2 years of experience (1 year in mental health). OR Peer Specialist Certification.
• Valid Driver's License Required
• Background Checks Required
• CJIS Certification Required (upon hire)

Working conditions

This position is an emergency first responder. Work is in the community in uncontrolled environments. Staff are expected to work in all elements of weather and may be called on to support during city-wide events or disasters. This position is at risk for being exposed to communicable diseases and unstable or agitated individuals. There is a potential for verbal abuse from those we serve. The position must be able and willing to physically assist consumers with limited mobility in and out of the agency vehicle. While performing the duties of the job, employees are frequently required to stand, walk, lift, and reach. Must be willing to perform all job-related travel associated with this position.