Crisis Outreach and Support Team Mental Health Counselor

Company: The Independence Center
Location: Waukegan
Posted on: February 14, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Description: Employment Opportunity- Behavioral Health The Independence Center has provided psychosocial rehabilitation, group and individual therapy, case management, vocational and housing services to adults with chronic mental health needs in Lake County for over 30 years. Employees of the Center are champions in supporting our members as they progress toward achieving and maintaining healthier lifestyles and managing the cyclical nature of their diagnosis. As a small, private agency, we provide a work environment that encourages autonomy, fresh ideas, creativity, teamwork, and growth through systematic development and training opportunities. Our staff strives to make a positive impact in the lives of the community we serve through a unique and whole person-centered approach to treatment. We work in a challenging and sometimes stressful field, so we also like to have fun with staff gatherings and celebrations from time to time. If you want to work with a purpose and make a difference in someone's life, a career at the Center could be the rewarding professional experience you have been seeking. Position Summary: The Crisis Outreach and Support Team Mental Health Counselor provides initial and ongoing assessment, clinical diagnoses, and support to Lake County residents with mental or behavioral health illnesses who interact with its law enforcement division. The position will accompany law enforcement in the community. The role will identify and recommend appropriate therapeutic interventions to assist individuals in crisis. This position is community-based. Position Responsibilities (including but not limited to): Conduct and document mental health assessments, treatment plans, safety, discharge plans, progress notes, reports, and service interventions for services rendered to Lake County Residents. Conduct case management services, including linking members to community resources and providing referrals to meet their needs. Assist residents in obtaining public entitlements, housing, community resources (RTA Free Ride program, food pantries, clothing donations, LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program), PADS, etc.) Provide community support services and assist residents in achieving and maintaining rehabilitative, resiliency, and recovery goals. Services provided include therapeutic interventions that facilitate illness self-management, skill-building, identification and use of natural supports, and community resources. Coordinate, transport, and participate in appointments with mental and physical health medical providers to promote collaborative care and provide input on treatment needs. Conduct non-medical assessments such as home safety, transportation, employment, and community/environment resources to provide referrals for appropriate services and resolve concerns on the resident's behalf. Provide outreach via phone, email, text to individuals to follow up on referrals and barriers that may remain. Facilitate educational and therapeutic groups in life skills, communication, coping, and conflict management. Benefits We offer competitive salary and benefits, including health, dental, vision, life, and disability (short/long term) insurance, 403B retirement savings plan with employer match up to 2% of employee's annual compensation, tuition assistance. Paid Time Off - Including 18 days of PTO (Paid Time Off) and 8 paid holidays in the first year. We also have LCSW and LCPC supervision hours for individuals working on licensing requirements. Our staff enjoy a flexible, friendly, and casual-dress workplace. The Independence Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We prohibit discrimination in all phases of employment based on an individual's race, color, sex, age, pregnancy, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information and any other classifications protected by federal, state, and local law. ZR Requirements: Required Minimum Qualifications: Master's degree preferred, in human services fields such as social work, counseling, psychology, or related discipline or bachelor's degree and more than five years of mental health experience, including crisis intervention. Minimum one year of experience working with individuals with serious and chronic mental illness, preferably experience includes non-traditional treatment environments (in-home, residential, community settings). Strong interpersonal, mediation, and conflict-resolution skills. Able to demonstrate sound judgment and demeanor in dealing with safety issues, emergencies, and high-conflict situations with members. Ability to work effectively in cross-cultural environments in various settings and knowledge of resources available in the community. Valid driver’s license and proof of insurability. Computer proficiency, including knowledge of Word, Outlook, and basic computer competency. Preferred Qualifications: Degree from an accredited college or university in social work, counseling, psychology, or a related discipline. QMHP (Qualified Mental Health Professional) or LHPA.

Keywords: The Independence Center, Wauwatosa , Crisis Outreach and Support Team Mental Health Counselor, Healthcare , Waukegan, Wisconsin