Description
Schedule:
Before ORCA Center Opens (anticipated in summer-fall 2025): Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm; clinical care on DESC's Opioid Treatment Network team.After ORCA Center Opens: Planned schedule is three (3) 12-hour shifts with at least two 30-minute breaks, 7:00 pm – 7:30 am, per week, with some weekends required; and one additional 12-hour shift every 4 weeks. Please note that ORCA is a new program, and the schedule is subject to adjustment as necessary to meet operational and clinical needs.Supervised by: ORCA RN Supervisor
The ORCA Center is estimated to start clinical services in mid-2025 (though the RNs will start once hired) and will be open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, including holidays. It will offer four overlapping types of services:
Care to individuals in stable condition who have experienced an opioid overdose, brought to the ORCA Center by first responders or transferred from local emergency departmentsRapid initiation of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), including buprenorphine (sublingual and long-acting injectable) and methadone (under the “72-hour rule”, or Code of Federal regulations Title 21 §1306.07 (b)), for people with OUD, regardless of whether an opioid overdose has recently occurred.Harm reduction counseling and OUD-related physical and behavioral health services, such as hepatitis C testing and treatment and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis.Follow-up care, at the ORCA Center or at times field-based, with individuals who have started MOUD to ensure support in MOUD continuation.The Registered Nurse (RN) acts as a member of a multi-disciplinary team responsible for providing nursing services to adults who have experienced an opioid overdose and/or those with a diagnosis of Opioid Use Disorder. DESC's ORCA Center provides 24-hour, low-barrier, enhanced supportive services. Here, the RN will provide in-the-moment, low-threshold medical access to clients who may not otherwise present to more traditional clinics. Work is done under the supervision of the ORCA Nurse Supervisor, Senior Nurse Manager, Director of Nursing, and Medical Director.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Provide clinical assessments, RN case management, medical monitoring, wound care and other treatments, intervention in medical emergencies, and linkages to behavioral health treatment and primary care.Provide individualized medication management services and education as needed, and ongoing assessment of mental status and the impacts of current treatment.Perform initial history and physical of client; documenting any client identified concerns, vital signs, and mental health status exams/AIMs assessments.Reconcile medication and medical record with hospitals, other outpatient mental health clinics, and primary care facilities, including collecting appropriate Release of Information requests (ROIs) as needed.Provide / coordinate chronic disease management; educate client re: self-care and medication management.Administer oral medication, injections, and provide wound care within scope of practice and plan of care or as prescribed by eligible provider.Be able to use critical thinking, clinical judgment, patience, and flexibility in frequent contacts with clients. Have strong communication and customer service skills.Assess clients for a range of health care needs and facilitate linkage and on-going connection to relevant urgent, primary and specialty health services to ensure continuity of care. Advocate for patients' access to a variety of community resources and services.Oversee on-site medication monitoring services.Participate in supervision, program meetings and in-service trainings.Comply with the agency's clinical accountability policies and procedures; maintain current and complete clinical records; participate in quality assurance activities.Participate in verbal de-escalation and physical interventions in emergent situations and be willing and able to assist other staff as needed to maintain a safe and secure environment.Build trusting relationships with clients who may be wary and difficult to engage by employing a warm and accepting approach that includes trauma informed care, harm reduction and motivational interviewing. Demonstrate a commitment to this approach through language and behavior.Teach clients about safer substance use, overdose prevention and overdose reversal.Other duties as assigned. Requirements:MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Registered Nurse, licensed in the State of Washington, in good standing.Interest or experience in working with clients who are difficult to engage and maintain in traditional behavioral health programs.Be able to pass a Washington State Criminal background check.Experience or training in addiction medicine and harm reduction.Ability to relate to a wide range of people, demonstrate highly developed communication skills, and have a desire to serve people with Opioid Use Disorder.Ability to remain open and receptive to constructive feedback.Ability to communicate and coordinate with staff from diverse backgrounds.Strong commitment to serving individuals with complex needs, including homelessness and co-occurring behavioral health conditions.Familiarity with trauma-informed care, harm reduction principles, and equity frameworks.Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.Proficiency with electronic health records and clinical documentation.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience in low-barrier buprenorphine programs or Federal Opioid Treatment Programs.Experience in an acute care setting (e.g., emergency department or overdose prevention center).Knowledge and skill in working with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders; with homeless or formerly homeless individuals.Crisis intervention and stabilization experience.Familiarity with Recovery Principles, Crisis Intervention and Stabilization, Integrated Treatment of Co-occurring Disorders, Intensive Case Management, Illness Management, and relevant Evidenced based/Emerging best practices.Bilingual in Spanish/English.Strong applicants can demonstrate the ability to be positive in their empathetic responses to all persons; understand the value of meaningful and deep client engagement; and value a non-judgmental response to sensitive issues. Candidates should be able to accept feedback and work in a highly collaborative and sometimes stressful environment.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required sit for long periods of time, communicate with other persons by talking and hearing, required to lift and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds and to operate computer hardware systems. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
DESC is committed to diversity in the workplace and promotes equal employment opportunities for all staff members and applicants. The Agency will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, caste, marital status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability in any employment practice, unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification. Minorities and veterans are encouraged to apply.
Compensation details: 103545.12-114309.12 Yearly Salary
PIfe7e533cd17e-25405-38401554
Read LessDays Off: Saturday, Sunday
Shift: Day
Insurance Benefits: Medical (no premiums/payroll deductions for employee coverage), Dental, Life, Long-term Disability
Other Benefits: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), ORCA card subsidy, Paid Time Off (34 days per year), Retirement Plan
Union Representation: This position is a part of a union and is represented by SEIU Healthcare 1199NW.
About DESC:
DESC (Downtown Emergency Service Center) is a nonprofit organization working to help people with the complex needs of homelessness, substance use disorders, and serious mental illness achieve their highest potential for health and well-being through comprehensive services, treatment, and housing. Our vision is a community where no person is abandoned, ignored, or experiencing homelessness.
As the region's leading provider of services to multiply disabled adults who have experienced chronic homelessness, DESC serves almost 3,000 people each day. Our integrated service model is designed to help people secure and maintain appropriate, safe and affordable housing. DESC is recognized nationally and regionally as an innovator in developing solutions to homelessness.
JOB DEFINITION:
This position requires a strong interest in providing administrative support for a non-profit agency that specializes in services for those experiencing homelessness, mental health crisis, or currently engage in substance use. The successful candidate will be willing to build skills which specialize in engaging and, at times, deescalating clients in order to provide smooth communication between the client and their care team.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Front Desk & Lobby - Client Interactions:
Greet agency clients and visitors who enter the office and inform appropriate staff of their arrival.Assist in maintaining a comfortable milieu while tolerant of unusual and bizarre client behavior.Observe client behaviors inside lobbies and entryways, and intervene when necessary to discourage loitering, fighting, use or sale of drugs and alcohol, and other uncivil or illegal behaviors.Provide assistance to homeless individuals and others who are experiencing crises caused by mental illness and/or due to drug/alcohol consumption.Provide information about and referral to other services available in the community to homeless people and others in need.Ensure cleanliness of lobby area, interview/conference rooms and work area.Phones/Mail/Office Supplies:
Answer incoming calls promptly with proper etiquette; route calls to appropriate persons; transfers call to voice mail or take messages as needed. Provide basic information on agency and services as appropriate over the phone.Process mail for clients and staff: Accept mail from USPS, UPS, FedEx, and other independent vendors, sort/distribute mail, and enter received client mail into tracking database.Order, maintain and dispense office supplies and forms needed by staff.Schedule routine maintenance of office machines.Paperwork:
Assist program staff to update and maintain current resource lists and information manuals.Copy and collate forms and documents of various types for agency staff; monitor and maintain adequate supply of commonly used materials.Track company vehicles, maintain MS Outlook reservation calendar, enter any maintenance requests as needed.Enter client and service data on mental health program clients; coordinate with mental health program staff to ensure accuracy and completeness of information entered into system.Organize, file and/or store source documents for data entered into system, following established procedures for retention or disposal of documents.Generate reports from DESC’s database and distribute them to appropriate staff.Non-position specific:
Participate in staff meetings and in-service trainings, as appropriate.Other duties as assigned.Requirements:MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Excellent typing and keyboard skills and clerical skills/experience.Computer skills, including data entry and word processing experience, or related experience with the indicated potential to learn these skills quickly.Ability to work independently with a minimum of direct supervision.Willingness to be flexible and work cooperatively with co-workers to accomplish all responsibilities of the team.Initiative and creativity in problem solving and system development.Careful attention to detail.Ability to communicate and work effectively with staff from various backgrounds and disciplines.Ability to relate effectively to clients displaying a wide range of unpleasant and/or bizarre behaviors.Subscribe to philosophy of cooperation and continuity across programs, and of consideration and respect for clients.PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to sit, communicate with other employees, required to lift and carry items weighing up to 40 pounds and to operate computer hardware systems. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
DESC is committed to diversity in the workplace, and promotes equal employment opportunities for all staff members and applicants. The Agency will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, caste, marital status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability in any employment practice, unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification. Minorities and veterans are encouraged to apply.
Read LessDescription
Schedule:
Before ORCA Center Opens (anticipated in summer-fall 2025): Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm; clinical care on DESC’s Opioid Treatment Network team.After ORCA Center Opens: Planned schedule is three (3) 12-hour shifts with at least two 30-minute breaks, 7:00 pm – 7:30 am, per week, with some weekends required; and one additional 12-hour shift every 4 weeks. Please note that ORCA is a new program, and the schedule is subject to adjustment as necessary to meet operational and clinical needs.Supervised by: ORCA RN Supervisor
The ORCA Center is estimated to start clinical services in mid-2025 (though the RNs will start once hired) and will be open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, including holidays. It will offer four overlapping types of services:
Care to individuals in stable condition who have experienced an opioid overdose, brought to the ORCA Center by first responders or transferred from local emergency departmentsRapid initiation of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), including buprenorphine (sublingual and long-acting injectable) and methadone (under the “72-hour rule”, or Code of Federal regulations Title 21 §1306.07 (b)), for people with OUD, regardless of whether an opioid overdose has recently occurred.Harm reduction counseling and OUD-related physical and behavioral health services, such as hepatitis C testing and treatment and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis.Follow-up care, at the ORCA Center or at times field-based, with individuals who have started MOUD to ensure support in MOUD continuation.The Registered Nurse (RN) acts as a member of a multi-disciplinary team responsible for providing nursing services to adults who have experienced an opioid overdose and/or those with a diagnosis of Opioid Use Disorder. DESC’s ORCA Center provides 24-hour, low-barrier, enhanced supportive services. Here, the RN will provide in-the-moment, low-threshold medical access to clients who may not otherwise present to more traditional clinics. Work is done under the supervision of the ORCA Nurse Supervisor, Senior Nurse Manager, Director of Nursing, and Medical Director.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Provide clinical assessments, RN case management, medical monitoring, wound care and other treatments, intervention in medical emergencies, and linkages to behavioral health treatment and primary care.Provide individualized medication management services and education as needed, and ongoing assessment of mental status and the impacts of current treatment.Perform initial history and physical of client; documenting any client identified concerns, vital signs, and mental health status exams/AIMs assessments.Reconcile medication and medical record with hospitals, other outpatient mental health clinics, and primary care facilities, including collecting appropriate Release of Information requests (ROIs) as needed.Provide / coordinate chronic disease management; educate client re: self-care and medication management.Administer oral medication, injections, and provide wound care within scope of practice and plan of care or as prescribed by eligible provider.Be able to use critical thinking, clinical judgment, patience, and flexibility in frequent contacts with clients. Have strong communication and customer service skills.Assess clients for a range of health care needs and facilitate linkage and on-going connection to relevant urgent, primary and specialty health services to ensure continuity of care. Advocate for patients' access to a variety of community resources and services.Oversee on-site medication monitoring services.Participate in supervision, program meetings and in-service trainings.Comply with the agency’s clinical accountability policies and procedures; maintain current and complete clinical records; participate in quality assurance activities.Participate in verbal de-escalation and physical interventions in emergent situations and be willing and able to assist other staff as needed to maintain a safe and secure environment.Build trusting relationships with clients who may be wary and difficult to engage by employing a warm and accepting approach that includes trauma informed care, harm reduction and motivational interviewing. Demonstrate a commitment to this approach through language and behavior.Teach clients about safer substance use, overdose prevention and overdose reversal.Other duties as assigned. Requirements:MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Registered Nurse, licensed in the State of Washington, in good standing.Interest or experience in working with clients who are difficult to engage and maintain in traditional behavioral health programs.Be able to pass a Washington State Criminal background check.Experience or training in addiction medicine and harm reduction.Ability to relate to a wide range of people, demonstrate highly developed communication skills, and have a desire to serve people with Opioid Use Disorder.Ability to remain open and receptive to constructive feedback.Ability to communicate and coordinate with staff from diverse backgrounds.Strong commitment to serving individuals with complex needs, including homelessness and co-occurring behavioral health conditions.Familiarity with trauma-informed care, harm reduction principles, and equity frameworks.Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.Proficiency with electronic health records and clinical documentation.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience in low-barrier buprenorphine programs or Federal Opioid Treatment Programs.Experience in an acute care setting (e.g., emergency department or overdose prevention center).Knowledge and skill in working with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders; with homeless or formerly homeless individuals.Crisis intervention and stabilization experience.Familiarity with Recovery Principles, Crisis Intervention and Stabilization, Integrated Treatment of Co-occurring Disorders, Intensive Case Management, Illness Management, and relevant Evidenced based/Emerging best practices.Bilingual in Spanish/English.Strong applicants can demonstrate the ability to be positive in their empathetic responses to all persons; understand the value of meaningful and deep client engagement; and value a non-judgmental response to sensitive issues. Candidates should be able to accept feedback and work in a highly collaborative and sometimes stressful environment.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required sit for long periods of time, communicate with other persons by talking and hearing, required to lift and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds and to operate computer hardware systems. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
DESC is committed to diversity in the workplace and promotes equal employment opportunities for all staff members and applicants. The Agency will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, caste, marital status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability in any employment practice, unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification. Minorities and veterans are encouraged to apply.
Read LessDays Off: Saturday, Sunday
Shift: Day (9am - 5pm)
Insurance Benefits: Dental, Life, Long-term Disability, Medical (no premiums/payroll deductions for employee coverage)
Other Benefits: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), ORCA card subsidy, Paid Time Off (34 days per year), Retirement Plan
About DESC:
DESC (Downtown Emergency Service Center) is a nonprofit organization working to help people with the complex needs of homelessness, substance use disorders, and serious mental illness achieve their highest potential for health and well-being through comprehensive services, treatment, and housing. Our vision is a community where no person is abandoned, ignored, or experiencing homelessness.
As the region's leading provider of services to multiply disabled adults who have experienced chronic homelessness, DESC serves almost 3,000 people each day. Our integrated service model is designed to help people secure and maintain appropriate, safe and affordable housing. DESC is recognized nationally and regionally as an innovator in developing solutions to homelessness.
JOB DEFINITION:
The MRT shift supervisor will work in coordination in establishing collaborative and engaging connections with PSH and HtH program staff from Plymouth Housing, Catholic Community Services and DESC. They will also assist in establishing working relationships with Police Precinct, Fire/Medics, DCRs, Emergency Room staff, and Crisis Connections. As part of the team, the shift supervisor will be responsible for providing clinical and psychosocial assessments in the field and mental health evaluations to determine the least restrictive alternatives to ITA.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES
Coordinate day to day schedule, making changes and adjustment due to staff call outs and call volume. Maintain staffing model through managing weekly and monthly scheduling in coordination with staff requests for PTO.Assist the Project Manager in planning, implementation, and coordination of MR services.Conduct performance evaluations of clinical staff on scheduled basis and keep supporting documentation in confidential files.Cooperate and problem solve with community providers, DESC programs, and other relevant entities.Promote and maintain positive relationships with the surrounding neighborhood, help with resolving complaints and provide routine outreach as needed to surrounding neighbors.Coordinate with the different PSH and HtH sites, maintaining good relationship with site leadership teams.Facilitate team meetings in coordination of other shift supervisors and project managers.CLINICAL SUPERVISION & TRAINING RESPONSIBILITIES
Support and train MRT staff toward improved care standards and practice skills.Teach and promote core DESC values, crisis intervention and de-escalation skills, and causes and effects of homelessness essential to ensure the safety of clients and staff.Help staff build competent case management skills and standard of practice related to clinical documentation and service coordination, focusing on making referrals to LT services.Train staff to complete housing assessments according to CEA requirements.Provide individual supervision and consultation for team members, including facilitating group training and facilitating group supervision and support.Coordinate and participate in psychiatric consultation, clinical supervision, program meetings, and in-service training of CSC program staff; participate in clinical reviews and case conferences.Participate in verbal de-escalation and physical interventions in emergent situations and be willing and able to assist other staff as needed to maintain a safe and secure environment.CONTRACTS & COMPLIANCE
Assure compliance with all relevant contract and procedure requirements.Maintain familiarity with agency and crisis mental health system policies and procedures and assure adherence to these procedures. Identify need, and advocate for, modification to procedures.Maintain strong knowledge of DESC personnel policies, procedures, and collective bargaining agreement. Assure compliance with same.Supervise and review team clinical documentation to assure that team members maintain current and complete clinical records, and that records comply with the agency's clinical accountability policies and procedures, relevant policies and procedures, and local, state, and federal requirements.MAINTAINING EQUIPMENT & PURCHASING
Provide building security as needed.Maintain awareness of vehicles assigned to team and ensure maintenance and cleanliness of all vehicles.Work in coordination with Project CoordinatorRequirements:MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Eligible for a Licensed AAC credential or any other superseding credential that meets RCW 71.05.020 requirements to act as a Mental Health Professional whose scope of practice includes independently conducting mental health assessments and making mental health diagnosesMaster's degree in social work, psychology or other relevant behavioral science.One or more years' experience in community based behavioral health services.Experience working with adults experiencing homelessness, mental illness and/or substance use disorders.Ability to drive an agency or personal vehicle to conduct agency related business. A current Washington State driver's license and insurable driving record are required.Required to complete DESC Crisis Response and Prevention training, and an 8-hour Crisis Intervention Training (CIT).Be able to pass a Washington State Criminal background check.Familiar with Recovery Principles, Crisis Intervention and Stabilization, Integrated Treatment of Co-occurring Disorders, Intensive Case Management, Illness Management, and relevant Evidenced based/Emerging best practices. Knowledge of Harm Reduction strategies.Strong working knowledge of DSM V.Be able to assess situations quickly and respond appropriately and calmly to any type of mental health and/or chemical dependency crisis to ensure the physical and psychological safety of clients.Be willing to seek to understand each client's unique circumstances and personal preferences and goals and incorporate them into the crisis response to help the client regain a sense of control.Assist clients in accessing internal resources to reinforce the client's ability to resolve crisis on their own.Assist clients in identifying unmet needs that may be causing them to have recurrent crisis.Have a strong understanding of recovery and resilience, the value of client partnerships and client choice, and the balance between protection from harm and personal dignity.Possess strong communication and writing skills.Ability to work flexible hours as required by program and staffing needs including evenings, weekends, or holidays. This includes sharing on-call duties and covering shifts as necessary.Able and willing to provide community outreach anywhere in King County from which a referral may originate, at times with no first responders present.Familiar with King County crisis response system and methods of access.Ability to communicate with and supervise staff from diverse backgrounds.Ability to work effectively with clients displaying a wide range of unpleasant and/or bizarre behaviors.Subscribe to the philosophy of cooperation and continuity across programs and of consideration and respect for clients.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Licensed Social Worker (LICSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, or Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in State of Washington.Licensed Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP) in the state of Washington.Qualified to provide Department of Health Approved Supervision to LICSW, LMFT, LMHC and/or CDP candidates.Crisis Outreach and/or Crisis Intervention experience.Bilingual in Spanish/English.Bi-cultural background/experience and/or qualify as an Ethnic Minority, DD, or Geriatric Mental Health Specialist (per WAC 388-865-0150 definition).Experience providing supervision and/or program management within the mental health and/or substance use disorder (SUD) field.Strong applicants are able to demonstrate the ability to be positive in their empathetic responses to all persons; understand the value of meaningful and deep client engagement; have the potential to acquire the necessary knowledge, attitudes and skills of an effective crisis worker; and value a non-judgmental response to sensitive issues. Candidates should be able to accept feedback and work in a highly collaborative and potentially stressful environment.PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required sit for long periods of time, communicate with other persons by talking and hearing, required to lift and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds and to operate computer hardware systems. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
DESC is committed to diversity in the workplace, and promotes equal employment opportunities for all staff members and applicants. The Agency will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, caste, marital status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability in any employment practice, unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification. Minorities and veterans are encouraged to apply.
Read LessDays Off: Saturday, Sunday
Shift: Swing (2:30pm - 11pm)
Shift Differential: $0.50 per hour
Insurance Benefits: Dental, Life, Long-term Disability, Medical (no premiums/payroll deductions for employee coverage)
Other Benefits: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), ORCA card subsidy, Paid Time Off (34 days per year), Retirement Plan
About DESC:
DESC (Downtown Emergency Service Center) is a nonprofit organization working to help people with the complex needs of homelessness, substance use disorders, and serious mental illness achieve their highest potential for health and well-being through comprehensive services, treatment, and housing. Our vision is a community where no person is abandoned, ignored, or experiencing homelessness.
As the region's leading provider of services to multiply disabled adults who have experienced chronic homelessness, DESC serves almost 3,000 people each day. Our integrated service model is designed to help people secure and maintain appropriate, safe and affordable housing. DESC is recognized nationally and regionally as an innovator in developing solutions to homelessness.
JOB DEFINITION:
The MRT shift supervisor will work in coordination in establishing collaborative and engaging connections with PSH and HtH program staff from Plymouth Housing, Catholic Community Services and DESC. They will also assist in establishing working relationships with Police Precinct, Fire/Medics, DCRs, Emergency Room staff, and Crisis Connections. As part of the team, the shift supervisor will be responsible for providing clinical and psychosocial assessments in the field and mental health evaluations to determine the least restrictive alternatives to ITA.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES
Coordinate day to day schedule, making changes and adjustment due to staff call outs and call volume. Maintain staffing model through managing weekly and monthly scheduling in coordination with staff requests for PTO.Assist the Project Manager in planning, implementation, and coordination of MR services.Conduct performance evaluations of clinical staff on scheduled basis and keep supporting documentation in confidential files.Cooperate and problem solve with community providers, DESC programs, and other relevant entities.Promote and maintain positive relationships with the surrounding neighborhood, help with resolving complaints and provide routine outreach as needed to surrounding neighbors.Coordinate with the different PSH and HtH sites, maintaining good relationship with site leadership teams.Facilitate team meetings in coordination of other shift supervisors and project managers.CLINICAL SUPERVISION & TRAINING RESPONSIBILITIES
Support and train MRT staff toward improved care standards and practice skills.Teach and promote core DESC values, crisis intervention and de-escalation skills, and causes and effects of homelessness essential to ensure the safety of clients and staff.Help staff build competent case management skills and standard of practice related to clinical documentation and service coordination, focusing on making referrals to LT services.Train staff to complete housing assessments according to CEA requirements.Provide individual supervision and consultation for team members, including facilitating group training and facilitating group supervision and support.Coordinate and participate in psychiatric consultation, clinical supervision, program meetings, and in-service training of CSC program staff; participate in clinical reviews and case conferences.Participate in verbal de-escalation and physical interventions in emergent situations and be willing and able to assist other staff as needed to maintain a safe and secure environment.CONTRACTS & COMPLIANCE
Assure compliance with all relevant contract and procedure requirements.Maintain familiarity with agency and crisis mental health system policies and procedures and assure adherence to these procedures. Identify need, and advocate for, modification to procedures.Maintain strong knowledge of DESC personnel policies, procedures, and collective bargaining agreement. Assure compliance with same.Supervise and review team clinical documentation to assure that team members maintain current and complete clinical records, and that records comply with the agency's clinical accountability policies and procedures, relevant policies and procedures, and local, state, and federal requirements.MAINTAINING EQUIPMENT & PURCHASING
Provide building security as needed.Maintain awareness of vehicles assigned to team and ensure maintenance and cleanliness of all vehicles.Work in coordination with Project CoordinatorRequirements:MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Eligible for a Licensed AAC credential or any other superseding credential that meets RCW 71.05.020 requirements to act as a Mental Health Professional whose scope of practice includes independently conducting mental health assessments and making mental health diagnosesMaster's degree in social work, psychology or other relevant behavioral science.One or more years' experience in community based behavioral health services.Experience working with adults experiencing homelessness, mental illness and/or substance use disorders.Ability to drive an agency or personal vehicle to conduct agency related business. A current Washington State driver's license and insurable driving record are required.Required to complete DESC Crisis Response and Prevention training, and an 8-hour Crisis Intervention Training (CIT).Be able to pass a Washington State Criminal background check.Familiar with Recovery Principles, Crisis Intervention and Stabilization, Integrated Treatment of Co-occurring Disorders, Intensive Case Management, Illness Management, and relevant Evidenced based/Emerging best practices.Knowledge of Harm Reduction strategies.Strong working knowledge of DSM V.Be able to assess situations quickly and respond appropriately and calmly to any type of mental health and/or chemical dependency crisis to ensure the physical and psychological safety of clients.Be willing to seek to understand each client's unique circumstances and personal preferences and goals and incorporate them into the crisis response to help the client regain a sense of control.Assist clients in accessing internal resources to reinforce the client's ability to resolve crisis on their own.Assist clients in identifying unmet needs that may be causing them to have recurrent crisis.Have a strong understanding of recovery and resilience, the value of client partnerships and client choice, and the balance between protection from harm and personal dignity.Possess strong communication and writing skills.Ability to work flexible hours as required by program and staffing needs including evenings, weekends, or holidays. This includes sharing on-call duties and covering shifts as necessary.Able and willing to provide community outreach anywhere in King County from which a referral may originate, at times with no first responders present.Familiar with King County crisis response system and methods of access.Ability to communicate with and supervise staff from diverse backgrounds.Ability to work effectively with clients displaying a wide range of unpleasant and/or bizarre behaviors.Subscribe to the philosophy of cooperation and continuity across programs and of consideration and respect for clients.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Licensed Social Worker (LICSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, or Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in State of Washington.Licensed Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP) in the state of Washington.Qualified to provide Department of Health Approved Supervision to LICSW, LMFT, LMHC and/or CDP candidates.Crisis Outreach and/or Crisis Intervention experience.Bilingual in Spanish/English.Bi-cultural background/experience and/or qualify as an Ethnic Minority, DD, or Geriatric Mental Health Specialist (per WAC 388-865-0150 definition).Experience providing supervision and/or program management within the mental health and/or substance use disorder (SUD) field.Strong applicants are able to demonstrate the ability to be positive in their empathetic responses to all persons; understand the value of meaningful and deep client engagement; have the potential to acquire the necessary knowledge, attitudes and skills of an effective crisis worker; and value a non-judgmental response to sensitive issues. Candidates should be able to accept feedback and work in a highly collaborative and potentially stressful environment.PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required sit for long periods of time, communicate with other persons by talking and hearing, required to lift and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds and to operate computer hardware systems. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
DESC is committed to diversity in the workplace, and promotes equal employment opportunities for all staff members and applicants. The Agency will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, caste, marital status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability in any employment practice, unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification. Minorities and veterans are encouraged to apply.
Read LessSchedule:
Variable, providers typically work 12-hour shifts with at least a 30-minute break, 7:00 am – 7:30 pm and 7:00 pm – 7:30 am
Shift Differential: $3.25 per hour Night Shift differential, paid in addition to hourly wage
Supervised by: ORCA Center Senior Medical Lead Physician
Other Benefits: 403(b), EAP, Sick & Safe Time
About DESC:
DESC is a multi-service agency that specializes in providing permanent supportive housing, emergency shelter, residential crisis services, and comprehensive behavioral health outpatient services for people with long-time experiences of homelessness and serious behavioral health disabilities. We utilize harm reduction, trauma informed care, and housing first practices, striving to deliver high-quality, outcomes-oriented, flexible services that accommodate consumers’ unique needs. The ORCA Center builds upon DESC’s successful and innovative clinic- and field-based outpatient OUD treatment team and will collaborate closely with this team.
Job Overview:
This role will provide direct clinical care within the DESC Opioid Recovery and Care Access (ORCA) Center. The ORCA Center is estimated to start clinical services in late summer to fall 2025 and will eventually be open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, including holidays. It will offer four overlapping types of services, delivered by a team of prescribers, nurses, medical assistants, peer specialists and milieu specialists, with operational leadership support:
Care to individuals in stable condition who have experienced an opioid overdose, brought to the ORCA Center by first responders or transferred from local emergency departments.Rapid initiation of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), including buprenorphine (sublingual and long-acting injectable) and methadone (under the “72-hour rule”, or Code of Federal regulations Title 21 §1306.07 (b)), for people with opioid use disorder (OUD), regardless of whether an opioid overdose has recently occurred.Harm reduction counseling and OUD-related physical and behavioral health services, such as hepatitis C testing and treatment and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis.Follow-up care, at the ORCA Center or at times field-based, with individuals who have started MOUD to ensure support in MOUD continuation.This is a clinical role without administrative or supervisory duties.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Clinical Care
Provide evidence-based treatment for OUD, including initiation and management of buprenorphine (sublingual and long-acting injectable) and, according to DESC protocols, methadone initiation.Conduct harm reduction counseling and provide services related to infectious diseases such as syphilis, hepatitis C, and HIV (including PrEP).Manage and treat conditions commonly seen in individuals with OUD, such as skin and soft tissue infections and linkage to mental health care.Perform initial health assessments and follow-up visits for individuals starting or continuing MOUD.Educate patients on health-related topics, treatment plans, and harm reduction strategies.Document clinical care in accordance with DESC and regulatory standards.Care Coordination
Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team of clinicians, peer specialists, and social workers to provide holistic care.Ensure continuity of care for individuals transitioning between ORCA Center services and other health care providers.Professional Development
Stay updated on best practices in addiction medicine and harm reduction through continuing education.Participate in in-service training and case discussions to maintain high clinical standards.Requirements:MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Fully licensed as a Physician, Nurse Practitioner (Family or Adult NP), or Physician Assistant in the State of Washington.Registration with the Drug Enforcement Agency.Experience or training in addiction medicine and harm reduction.Strong commitment to serving individuals with complex needs, including homelessness and co-occurring behavioral health conditions.Familiarity with trauma-informed care, harm reduction principles, and equity frameworks.Ability to remain open and receptive to constructive feedback.Strong ability to approach those with differing opinions with curiosity & active listening.Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience in low-barrier buprenorphine programs or Federal Opioid Treatment Programs.Experience in an acute care setting (e.g., emergency department or overdose prevention center).Skills in addressing co-occurring mental health conditions and physical health needs.Proficiency with electronic health records and clinical documentation.PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to sit, communicate with other employees and clients, is required to lift and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds and to operate computer hardware systems. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Considerable stress may occur.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
DESC is committed to diversity in the workplace and promotes equal employment opportunities for all staff members and applicants. The Agency will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, caste, marital status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability in any employment practice, unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification. Minorities and veterans are encouraged to apply.
Read LessLocations:
DESC's Crisis Solutions Center, 1600 S Lane St, Seattle, WA 98144DESC’s Opioid Recovery and Care Access Center, 515 3rd Ave, Seattle, WA 98104Shift:
CSC: Day Shift (6:30am – 7pm), Night Shift (6:30pm - 7am)ORCA Center: Day shift (7am – 7:30pm), Night shift (7pm – 7:30am)Shift Differential: $3.25 per hour Night Shift differential, paid in addition to hourly wage
Other Benefits: 403(b), EAP (Employee Assistance Program), Sick & Safe Time
About DESC:
DESC (Downtown Emergency Service Center) is a nonprofit organization working to help people with the complex needs of homelessness, substance use disorders, and serious mental illness achieve their highest potential for health and well-being through comprehensive services, treatment, and housing. Our vision is a community where no person is abandoned, ignored, or experiencing homelessness.
As the region's leading provider of services to multiply disabled adults who have experienced chronic homelessness, DESC serves almost 3,000 people each day. Our integrated service model is designed to help people secure and maintain appropriate, safe and affordable housing. DESC is recognized nationally and regionally as an innovator in developing solutions to homelessness.
Applicant Review Process:
Please note: Due to the high volume of applications, our team reviews submissions on a weekly basis in the order received. If your qualifications and availability align with the needs of the program, we will reach out to schedule a phone screen. We appreciate your patience during this process.
JOB DEFINITION:
CSC: The RN is a member of a multi-disciplinary team responsible for providing on-going case management services to homeless and formerly homeless, mentally ill adults. The Registered Nurse works primarily with clients in need of psychiatric and other medical attention. This position will share responsibility for coordinating the medication services for the team.
ORCA Center: (Plan to open fall 2025) The Registered Nurse (RN) acts as a member of a multi-disciplinary team responsible for providing nursing services to adults who have experienced an opioid overdose and/or those with a diagnosis of Opioid Use Disorder. DESC’s ORCA Center provides 24-hour, low-barrier, enhanced supportive services. Here, the RN will provide in-the-moment, low-threshold medical access to clients who may not otherwise present to more traditional clinics. Work is done under the supervision of the ORCA Nurse Supervisor, Senior Nurse Manager, Director of Nursing, and Medical Director.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Psychiatric Care & Medication Services:
Under the guidance and direction of the Nursing Supervisor, coordinate medical aspects of care, including monitoring and administration of medications in a manner that meets the unique needs of clients.Provide education to clients regarding their treatment, medical and mental health condition.Develop and engage clients in health promotion activities such as health and wellness clinics, smoking cessation efforts, and client education programs for disease prevention.On-going assessment of mental status and the positive impact and side effects of current treatment.Provide specialized training and consultation to other staff members on medical/mental health issues relating to clients and their care.Participate in psychiatric consultation, supervision, program meetings and in-service trainings; participate in clinical reviews and case conferences for team clients.Comply with the agency’s clinical accountability policies and procedures; maintain current and complete clinical records; participate in quality assurance reviews.Comply with applicable program research and evaluation procedures.Participate in verbal de-escalation and physical interventions in emergent situations and be willing and able to assist other staff as needed to maintain a safe and secure environment. Other duties as assigned.Medical care (ORCA):
Care to individuals in stable condition who have experienced an opioid overdose, brought to the ORCA Center by first responders or transferred from local emergency departments Provide clinical assessments, RN case management, medical monitoring, wound care and other treatments, intervention in medical emergencies, and linkages to behavioral health treatment and primary care. Rapid initiation of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), including buprenorphine (sublingual and long-acting injectable) and methadone (under the “72 hour rule”, or Code of Federal regulations Title 21 §1306.07 (b)), for people with OUD, regardless of whether an opioid overdose has recently occurred.Follow-up care, at the ORCA Center or at times field-based, with individuals who have started MOUD to ensure support in MOUD continuation. Harm reduction counseling and OUD-related physical and behavioral health services, such as hepatitis C testing and treatment and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis. Provide / coordinate chronic disease management; educate client re: self-care and medication management.Administer oral medication, injections, and provide wound care within scope of practice and plan of care or as prescribed by eligible provider.Oversee on-site medication monitoring services. Teach clients about safer substance use, overdose prevention and overdose reversal.Clinical and Social Support:
Participate as a member of a multi-disciplinary team providing some components of on-going case management services to homeless and formerly homeless adults.Assess clients for range of health care needs and facilitate linkage and on-going connection to relevant urgent, primary and specialty health services.Advocate for clients’ access to community resources and services, especially primary health care services, ensuring that clients’ needs are met and rights maintained; consult and collaborate with community providers to ensure continuity of care.Participate in the planning, organizing and facilitating of group treatment services for consumers served by the mental health program.Coordinate services closely with mental health program supervisors and case management staff.Build trusting relationships with clients who may be wary and difficult to engage by employing a warm and accepting approach that includes trauma informed care, harm reduction and motivational interviewing. Demonstrate a commitment to this approach through language and behavior.Other:
Participate in psychiatric consultation, supervision, program meetings and in-service trainings; participate in clinical reviews and case conferences for clients on caseload.Comply with the agency’s clinical and general policies and procedures; maintain current and complete clinical records; participate in quality assurance review activity as requested.Comply with applicable program research and evaluation procedures.Other duties as assigned.Requirements:MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Registered Nurse, licensed in the State of Washington.Knowledge of psychiatric medications, side effects and methods of administration.Interest or experience in working with adults who are experiencing or who have experienced homelessness and are disabled by mental illness and/or co-occurring substance abuse disorders.Flexibility, willingness to adapt to changing circumstances, accept new responsibilities and work cooperatively with team members to accomplish goals of program.Able to prioritize multiple responsibilities, work independently and exercise professional judgment.Interest in or experience working with participants who are difficult to engage and refer to traditional programs.Experience or training in addiction medicine and harm reduction.Ability to communicate and work effectively with staff from various backgrounds.Ability to work effectively with clients displaying a wide range of unpleasant and/or bizarre behavior.Ability to relate to a wide range of people, demonstrate highly developed communication skills, and have a desire to serve people with Opioid Use Disorder.Familiarity with trauma-informed care, harm reduction principles, and equity frameworks.Subscribe to the philosophy of cooperation and continuity across programs and of consideration and respect for clients.Skills and competence to establish supportive trusting relationships with persons with severe and persistent mental illnesses. Respect for participant rights and personal preferences in treatment are essential. Clear understanding and respect for the importance of maintaining participant confidentiality.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bi-lingual in Spanish/English.Bachelor of Science in Nursing.Ability to drive an agency or personal vehicle to conduct agency related business, which requires a current Washington State driver's license and insurable driving record.Experience in low-barrier buprenorphine programs or Federal Opioid Treatment Programs.Experience in an acute care setting (e.g., emergency department or overdose prevention center).PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to sit, drive, walk, stand, communicate with other employees and clients, is required to lift and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds and to operate computer hardware systems. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Considerable stress may occur. Employee will be working both indoors and outdoors in all types of weather.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
DESC is committed to diversity in the workplace and promotes equal employment opportunities for all staff members and applicants. The Agency will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, caste, marital status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability in any employment practice, unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification. Minorities and veterans are encouraged to apply.
Read LessDays Off: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
Shift: Day (7:00am - 5:30pm)
Insurance Benefits: Dental, Life, Long-term Disability, Medical (no premiums/payroll deductions for employee coverage)
Other Benefits: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), ORCA card subsidy, Paid Time Off (34 days per year), Retirement Plan
Union Representation: This position is a part of a union and is represented by SEIU Healthcare 1199NW.
About DESC:
DESC (Downtown Emergency Service Center) is a nonprofit organization working to help people with the complex needs of homelessness, substance use disorders, and serious mental illness achieve their highest potential for health and well-being through comprehensive services, treatment, and housing. Our vision is a community where no person is abandoned, ignored, or experiencing homelessness.
As the region's leading provider of services to multiply disabled adults who have experienced chronic homelessness, DESC serves almost 3,000 people each day. Our integrated service model is designed to help people secure and maintain appropriate, safe and affordable housing. DESC is recognized nationally and regionally as an innovator in developing solutions to homelessness.
About Mobile Rapid Response Crisis Team (MRRCT):
The Mobile Rapid Response Crisis Team (MRRCT or “Meerkat”) at DESC, is a county funded program responsible for addressing the imminent and emergent needs of community members in crisis, in the central region of King County primarily covering the entirety of Seattle. The DESC team has been providing mobile crisis response services to the community for well over a decade.
As a nonprofit with over 45 years of experience focused on serving our community’s adults living with long histories of homelessness, behavioral health, and other disabling conditions, DESC is uniquely positioned to connect people in crisis to the important support and survival services they may need to overcome and prevent future occurrences of crisis, behavioral health distress, or other instabilities in our community.
JOB DEFINITION:
As a member of DESC's Mobile Rapid Response Crisis Team, you will be on the front lines responding to adults in the community experiencing mental health or substance use crises, as dispatched to us by Crisis Connections (988). You will work in a team alongside other skilled colleagues, including Crisis Outreach Specialists and Certified Peer Counselors. Once called into action, teams of two will assist individuals responding to wherever they are in the community in identifying appropriate therapeutic options and next steps to resolve their crisis, while avoiding unnecessary usage of emergency rooms or other non-therapeutic settings like jail. We are working to stop the trend of criminalizing mental health disabilities and homelessness, and we want to make sure individuals in crisis get the help they need. Following our initial interaction, our teams will also follow up to ensure recommended service connections have been made to prevent future crisis events. The team works all throughout the central region of King County, primarily Seattle, in a wide variety of community settings every day throughout the year, and in all types of weather.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
In response to and cooperation with Crisis Connections and other referents (such as police, fire, medics), perform timely outreach services to individuals needing crisis intervention services, assessment, referral, and linkage to needed services.As a Mental Health Professional of a multi-disciplinary team, provide multi-axial assessments, substance use disorder assessments, crisis intervention, stabilization, and meaningful engagement.Establish and implement a plan to successfully engage clients in relevant services and other resources.As needed, provide follow-up services aimed at establishing linkage to services for program participants.Complete all data collection and documentation required.Develop and maintain cooperative relationships with programs providing services for the population served.Comply with all agency policies and procedures, and relevant titles of the Washington Administrative Code and Revised Code of Washington.Advocate for clients' access to community resources and services, ensuring that clients' needs are met and rights maintained; consult and collaborate with community providers to ensure continuity of care.Provide support to other DESC staff and programs around client crisis situations, including consultation and in-person responses to help assess and prevent emerging crisis events.Participate in psychiatric consultation, supervision, program meetings and in service trainings; participate in clinical reviews and case conferences for clients on caseload.Participate in verbal de-escalation and be able and willing to assist other staff as needed to maintain a safe, secure environment.Other duties as assigned. Requirements:MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Eligible for a Licensed AAC credential or any other superseding credential that meets RCW 71.05.020 requirements to act as a Mental Health Professional whose scope of practice includes independently conducting mental health assessments and making mental health diagnoses.Master's degree in social work, psychology or other relevant behavioral science or Bachelor of Nursing degree with specialty in mental health.Ability to drive an agency or personal vehicle to conduct agency related business. A current Washington State driver's license and insurable driving record are required.Be able to pass a Washington State Criminal background check.Interest in working with clients who are difficult to engage and maintain in traditional mental health/substance use disorder programs.Familiar with Recovery Principles, Crisis Intervention and Stabilization, Integrated Treatment of Co-occurring Disorders, Intensive Case Management, Illness Management, Trauma Informed Treatment, and relevant Evidenced based/Emerging best practices.Knowledge of Harm Reduction strategies.Strong working knowledge of DSM IV (and its successor).Be able to assess situations quickly and respond appropriately to any type of mental health and/or chemical dependency crisis to ensure the physical and psychological safety of clients.Be willing to seek to understand each client's unique circumstances and personal preferences and goals and incorporate them into the crisis response to help the client regain a sense of control.Assist clients in accessing internal resources to reinforce the client's ability to resolve crisis on their own.Assist clients in identifying unmet needs that may be causing them to have recurrent crisis.Have a strong understanding of recovery and resilience, the value of client partnerships and client choice, and the balance between protection from harm and personal dignity.Possess strong communication and writing skills.Able and willing to provide community outreach anywhere in King County from which a referral may originate.Familiar with King County crisis response system, other relevant community resources, and methods of access.Ability to communicate and work effectively with staff from various backgrounds.Ability to work effectively with clients displaying a wide range of unpleasant and/or bizarre behavior.Subscribe to the philosophy of cooperation and continuity across programs and of consideration and respect for program participants.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bilingual in Spanish/English (fluent).Bi-cultural background/experience and/or qualify as an Ethnic Minority, DD, or Geriatric Mental Health Specialist (per WAC 246-341 definition).Two years of experience providing crisis intervention services within the mental health and/or substance use disorder (SUD).Meet criteria as a Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP).Strong applicants are able to demonstrate the ability to be positive in their empathetic responses to all persons; understand the value of meaningful and deep client engagement; have the potential to acquire the necessary knowledge, attitudes and skills of an effective crisis worker; and value a non-judgmental response to sensitive issues. Candidates should be able to accept feedback and work in a highly collaborative and potentially stressful environment.PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to sit, drive, walk, stand, communicate with other employees and vendors, is required to lift and carry items weighing up to 10 pounds and to operate computer hardware systems. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Considerable stress may occur. Employee will be working both indoors and outdoors in all types of weather.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
DESC is committed to diversity in the workplace and promotes equal employment opportunities for all staff members and applicants. The Agency will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, caste, marital status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability in any employment practice, unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification. Minorities and veterans are encouraged to apply.
Read LessShift: Variable - no earlier than 8am, no later than 7pm
Other Benefits: 403(b), EAP, Sick & Safe Time
About DESC:
DESC (Downtown Emergency Service Center) is a nonprofit organization working to help people with the complex needs of homelessness, substance use disorders, and serious mental illness achieve their highest potential for health and well-being through comprehensive services, treatment, and housing. Our vision is a community where no person is abandoned, ignored, or experiencing homelessness.
As the region's leading provider of services to multiply disabled adults who have experienced chronic homelessness, DESC serves almost 3,000 people each day. Our integrated service model is designed to help people secure and maintain appropriate, safe and affordable housing. DESC is recognized nationally and regionally as an innovator in developing solutions to homelessness.
JOB DEFINITION:
The Psychiatric ARNP is responsible for providing psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis & treatment; crisis stabilization; medication prescription; recommending rehabilitation services, and coordination with community providers as necessary.
JOB DEFINITION:
The Psychiatric ARNP is a member of a multi-disciplinary team and is responsible for providing psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis & treatment; crisis stabilization; medication prescription; recommending rehabilitation services, and coordination with community providers as necessary. In conjunction with other psychiatric and management staff, this position has clinical responsibility for monitoring participant treatment and staff delivery of clinical services, assuring compliance with all local, state and federal laws and relevant contract and procedure requirements associated with operations within DESC.
Services will be provided in participants' home and community at least 75% of the time which includes travel time to perform services. In conjunction with the project manager, team leader, Nursing Supervisor, psychiatrist and Medical Director, this position has overall clinical responsibility for monitoring participant treatment and staff delivery of clinical services. All members of the team are expected to work with participants in a variety of shared functions. This team is designed to work with individuals who have experienced long durations or multiple episodes in psychiatric hospitalizations and/or residential mental health treatment. Individuals served experience chronic or multiple episodes of severe mental illness, co-occurring substance use disorders and possibly homelessness. These individuals have either been unable or unwilling to participate and succeed in traditional treatment settings. Therefore, it is critical that the members of this team work together in a collaborative manner that eliminates the traditional treatment borders and barriers.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Coordinate client care with a multi-disciplinary team of social workers/case managers, chemical dependency professionals, psychiatric nurses, peer counselors, employment specialists and other mental health staff within the PACT team. Perform full psychiatric evaluations and provide treatment and recommendations as appropriate, at DESC sites and in the community, as needed by program and individual need.Diagnose the nature and extent of mental and/or substance-related disorders by reviewing the client’s clinical record, requesting and reviewing known medical/psychiatric documentation, coordination with other providers, and evaluating the client's current physical and psychological condition. Coordinate all psychiatric services provided with Program management, Medical Director, nursing and other management staff. PACT always has a provider on-call who is available for consultation with other staff as well as Emergency Departments, first-responders, and other medical providers. Maintain compliance with all related licensing, DEA, and other regulations.Conduct all work within principles of the Recovery model. Evaluate clients and advise course of treatment. Respond to emergency situations as needed.Refer and advocate for clients to consult with a primary care physician on a regular basis. When appropriate, refer clients to other specialists.For all clients receiving medication treatment, conduct a face to face evaluation at least every 90 days or other schedule as related regulations or contract terms change.Document all client contacts and pertinent information according to agency, County, and State requirements within stated time lines. Provide treatment in compliance with relevant RSN policies and procedures and all local, state and federal requirements.In coordination with the Medical Director and Psychiatrist, participate in clinical program planning, matters of regulatory compliance for medical staff, and other issues relating to delivery and integration of psychiatric care. Actively participate in staff meetings and in-service trainings.Provide weekly psychiatric consultation to treatment teams and individual consultation as time allows.Provide education to clinical teams and individually as opportunity and need presents.Demonstrate the ability to work effectively under supervision, as part of a multi-disciplinary team, and independently, when necessary.Take initiative to meet the changing needs of community mental health treatment.Participate in verbal de-escalation and physical interventions in emergent situations and be willing and able to assist other staff as needed to maintain a safe and secure environment.Other duties as assigned.Requirements:MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Masters degree in Nursing, Psychiatric.Washington State Department of Health license as a Psychiatric Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority per WAC 308-120-400. Registration with the Drug Enforcement Agency.Must have a Washington State Driver's License, a reliable vehicle to use for work purposes and current auto insurance. Ability to work flexible hours as required by program and staffing needs including occasional evenings or weekends.Ability to share on-call Psychiatric consultation as scheduled with other provider. This effort also receives additional compensation.Be able to pass a Washington State Criminal background check.Knowledge and skill in working with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders.Familiar with Recovery Principles, Crisis Intervention and Stabilization, Integrated Treatment of Co-occurring Disorders, Intensive Case Management, Illness Management, and relevant Evidenced based/Emerging best practices.Knowledge of Harm Reduction strategies. Ability to relate to a wide range of people, demonstration of highly developed communication skills, and a desire to serve mentally ill, chemically dependent, and homeless clients.Ability and interest in providing case consultations with a multi-disciplinary staff.Ability to remain open and receptive to constructive feedback.Ability to communicate with and coordinate staff from diverse backgrounds.Ability to work effectively with clients displaying a wide range of unpleasant and/or bizarre behavior.Subscribe to the philosophy of cooperation and continuity across programs and of consideration and respect for clients.Bilingual in Spanish/English preferred.PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to sit, drive, walk, stand, communicate with other employees and clients, is required to lift and carry items weighing up to 10 pounds and to operate computer hardware systems. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Considerable stress may occur. Employee will be working both indoors and outdoors in all types of weather.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
DESC is committed to diversity in the workplace, and promotes equal employment opportunities for all staff members and applicants. The Agency will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, marital status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability in any employment practice, unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification. Minorities and veterans are encouraged to apply.
Read LessDays Off: Saturday, Sunday, Monday
Shift: Night (11:00pm - 9:30am)
Shift Differential: $1.00 per hour in addition to salary
Insurance Benefits: Medical (no premiums/payroll deductions for employee coverage) , Dental, Life, Long-term Disability
Other Benefits: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), ORCA card subsidy, Paid Time Off (34 days per year), Retirement Plan
Union Representation: This position is a part of a union and is represented by SEIU Healthcare 1199NW.
About DESC:
DESC (Downtown Emergency Service Center) is a nonprofit organization working to help people with the complex needs of homelessness, substance use disorders, and serious mental illness achieve their highest potential for health and well-being through comprehensive services, treatment, and housing. Our vision is a community where no person is abandoned, ignored, or experiencing homelessness.
As the region's leading provider of services to multiply disabled adults who have experienced chronic homelessness, DESC serves almost 3,000 people each day. Our integrated service model is designed to help people secure and maintain appropriate, safe and affordable housing. DESC is recognized nationally and regionally as an innovator in developing solutions to homelessness.
About Mobile Rapid Response Crisis Team (MRRCT):
The Mobile Rapid Response Crisis Team (MRRCT or “Meerkat”) at DESC, is a county funded program responsible for addressing the imminent and emergent needs of community members in crisis, in the central region of King County primarily covering the entirety of Seattle. The DESC team has been providing mobile crisis response services to the community for well over a decade.
As a nonprofit with over 45 years of experience focused on serving our community’s adults living with long histories of homelessness, behavioral health, and other disabling conditions, DESC is uniquely positioned to connect people in crisis to the important support and survival services they may need to overcome and prevent future occurrences of crisis, behavioral health distress, or other instabilities in our community.
JOB DEFINITION:
As a member of DESC's Mobile Rapid Response Crisis Team, you will be on the front lines responding to adults in the community experiencing mental health or substance use crises, as dispatched to us by Crisis Connections (988). You will work in a team alongside other skilled colleagues, including Crisis Outreach Specialists and Certified Peer Counselors. Once called into action, teams of two will assist individuals responding to wherever they are in the community in identifying appropriate therapeutic options and next steps to resolve their crisis, while avoiding unnecessary usage of emergency rooms or other non-therapeutic settings like jail. We are working to stop the trend of criminalizing mental health disabilities and homelessness, and we want to make sure individuals in crisis get the help they need. Following our initial interaction, our teams will also follow up to ensure recommended service connections have been made to prevent future crisis events. The team works all throughout the central region of King County, primarily Seattle, in a wide variety of community settings every day throughout the year, and in all types of weather.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
In response to and cooperation with Crisis Connections and other referents (such as police, fire, medics), perform timely outreach services to individuals needing crisis intervention services, assessment, referral, and linkage to needed services.As a Mental Health Professional of a multi-disciplinary team, provide multi-axial assessments, substance use disorder assessments, crisis intervention, stabilization, and meaningful engagement.Establish and implement a plan to successfully engage clients in relevant services and other resources.As needed, provide follow-up services aimed at establishing linkage to services for program participants.Complete all data collection and documentation required.Develop and maintain cooperative relationships with programs providing services for the population served.Comply with all agency policies and procedures, and relevant titles of the Washington Administrative Code and Revised Code of Washington.Advocate for clients' access to community resources and services, ensuring that clients' needs are met and rights maintained; consult and collaborate with community providers to ensure continuity of care.Provide support to other DESC staff and programs around client crisis situations, including consultation and in-person responses to help assess and prevent emerging crisis events.Participate in psychiatric consultation, supervision, program meetings and in service trainings; participate in clinical reviews and case conferences for clients on caseload.Participate in verbal de-escalation and be able and willing to assist other staff as needed to maintain a safe, secure environment.Other duties as assigned. Requirements:DESC is committed to diversity in the workplace and promotes equal employment opportunities for all staff members and applicants. The Agency will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, caste, marital status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability in any employment practice, unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification. Minorities and veterans are encouraged to apply.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Eligible for a Licensed AAC credential or any other superseding credential that meets RCW 71.05.020 requirements to act as a Mental Health Professional whose scope of practice includes independently conducting mental health assessments and making mental health diagnoses.Master's degree in social work, psychology or other relevant behavioral science or Bachelor of Nursing degree with specialty in mental health.Ability to drive an agency or personal vehicle to conduct agency related business. A current Washington State driver's license and insurable driving record are required.Be able to pass a Washington State Criminal background check.Interest in working with clients who are difficult to engage and maintain in traditional mental health/substance use disorder programs.Familiar with Recovery Principles, Crisis Intervention and Stabilization, Integrated Treatment of Co-occurring Disorders, Intensive Case Management, Illness Management, Trauma Informed Treatment, and relevant Evidenced based/Emerging best practices.Knowledge of Harm Reduction strategies.Strong working knowledge of DSM IV (and its successor).Be able to assess situations quickly and respond appropriately to any type of mental health and/or chemical dependency crisis to ensure the physical and psychological safety of clients.Be willing to seek to understand each client's unique circumstances and personal preferences and goals and incorporate them into the crisis response to help the client regain a sense of control.Assist clients in accessing internal resources to reinforce the client's ability to resolve crisis on their own.Assist clients in identifying unmet needs that may be causing them to have recurrent crisis.Have a strong understanding of recovery and resilience, the value of client partnerships and client choice, and the balance between protection from harm and personal dignity.Possess strong communication and writing skills.Able and willing to provide community outreach anywhere in King County from which a referral may originate.Familiar with King County crisis response system, other relevant community resources, and methods of access.Ability to communicate and work effectively with staff from various backgrounds.Ability to work effectively with clients displaying a wide range of unpleasant and/or bizarre behavior.Subscribe to the philosophy of cooperation and continuity across programs and of consideration and respect for program participants.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bilingual in Spanish/English (fluent).Bi-cultural background/experience and/or qualify as an Ethnic Minority, DD, or Geriatric Mental Health Specialist (per WAC 246-341 definition).Two years of experience providing crisis intervention services within the mental health and/or substance use disorder (SUD).Meet criteria as a Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP).Strong applicants are able to demonstrate the ability to be positive in their empathetic responses to all persons; understand the value of meaningful and deep client engagement; have the potential to acquire the necessary knowledge, attitudes and skills of an effective crisis worker; and value a non-judgmental response to sensitive issues. Candidates should be able to accept feedback and work in a highly collaborative and potentially stressful environment.PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to sit, drive, walk, stand, communicate with other employees and vendors, is required to lift and carry items weighing up to 10 pounds and to operate computer hardware systems. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Considerable stress may occur. Employee will be working both indoors and outdoors in all types of weather.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
DESC is committed to diversity in the workplace and promotes equal employment opportunities for all staff members and applicants. The Agency will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, caste, marital status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability in any employment practice, unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification. Minorities and veterans are encouraged to apply.
Read Less