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How much do designated crisis responder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for designated crisis responder in the United States is $21.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a designated crisis responder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Designated Crisis Responder, you need a background in behavioral health, crisis intervention, and assessment, typically supported by a relevant degree and state licensure (such as LMHC, LICSW, or similar). Familiarity with crisis management protocols, electronic health records (EHRs), and risk assessment tools is essential for effective evaluation and documentation. Strong communication, de-escalation, and cultural competency skills help build trust and facilitate positive outcomes in high-pressure situations. These skills are crucial for ensuring timely, appropriate interventions and maintaining safety for individuals in crisis and the broader community.

What is the difference between Designated Crisis Responder vs Crisis Counselor?

AspectDesignated Crisis ResponderCrisis Counselor
Required CredentialsTypically requires crisis intervention training, certification in mental health or crisis response, and sometimes state-specific credentialsOften requires a mental health degree or certification, such as LPC, LCSW, or similar
Work EnvironmentUsually works in emergency settings, hospitals, or community crisis centers, responding to urgent situationsWorks in mental health clinics, hospitals, or community agencies, providing ongoing support and counseling
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by emergency services, mental health agencies, and hospitals for immediate crisis responseEmployed by mental health organizations, clinics, and community programs for ongoing mental health support

While both roles involve crisis intervention, the Designated Crisis Responder focuses on immediate, urgent response to crises, often in emergency settings, whereas the Crisis Counselor provides ongoing mental health support and counseling in clinical or community environments.

What is a designated crisis responder?

A Designated Crisis Responder (DCR) is a mental health professional authorized by the state to evaluate individuals experiencing a mental health crisis and determine if involuntary detention is necessary for their safety or the safety of others. DCRs assess people in various settings, such as hospitals, homes, or in the community, and make decisions based on specific legal criteria. Their primary role is to ensure individuals in crisis receive appropriate care, often coordinating with law enforcement, healthcare providers, and families during emergencies.

What are some common challenges designated crisis responders face during field assessments, and how can they best prepare for them?

Designated Crisis Responders often encounter unpredictable situations, including clients in acute distress or potentially unsafe environments. A key challenge is quickly assessing risk and making decisions under pressure while ensuring personal safety and adhering to legal protocols. Preparation involves thorough training in de-escalation techniques, staying updated on community resources, and collaborating with law enforcement or medical personnel when necessary. Regular team debriefings and ongoing education also help responders maintain resilience and effectiveness in high-stress situations.

What skills are needed for designated crisis responder jobs?

Designated crisis responders need strong communication and active listening skills to effectively support individuals in distress. They should have crisis intervention training, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure, often working in high-stress environments and following safety protocols.
More about Designated Crisis Responder jobs
What cities are hiring for Designated Crisis Responder jobs? Cities with the most Designated Crisis Responder job openings:
What states have the most Designated Crisis Responder jobs? States with the most job openings for Designated Crisis Responder jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Designated Crisis Responder jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Designated Crisis Responder jobs are:
Designated Crisis Responder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Designated Crisis Responder job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, and 55% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,018 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Designated Crisis Responder

Klickitat County, WA

Goldendale, WA • On-site

$65K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Salary : $65,395.20 - $73,611.20 Annually
Location : Goldendale, WA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2023-00013
Department: Behavioral Health
Opening Date: 01/01/2025
Basic Job Purpose/Function
Designated Crisis Responder/Therapist- Behavioral Health - Goldendale, WA. - Full-time, Non-Exempt. Grade 69, Step 1-5, $31.44 to $35.39/Hr, DOQ, Open until Filled.
Under direct supervision of the Behavioral Health Manager the Designated Crisis Responder (DCR) provides intervention and support to individuals who are experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis. They take calls requesting crisis services and travel out to locations identified by the program management to provide crisis assessments, determine what level of treatment is needed to stabilize the situation, and make arrangements for hospital placements or outpatient treatment as appropriate. The goal is to stabilize the crisis using the least restrictive setting possible, while ensuring the safety of the individual in crisis as well as the community. This role requires working closely with emergency responders, law enforcement, and other community partners to coordinate care. The DCR position offers the opportunity to work both collaboratively and independently, have significantly varied workdays, and use creativity to resolve problems. This position has a set weekly schedule of three 12 hours shifts with 4 hours administrative time each week to total 40 hours a week. Shifts will vary and could include days, evenings and overnights and both weekdays and weekends.
Essential Job Duties
  1. Receiving calls for crisis services from individuals, law enforcement, medical facilities, & service providers and responding in the community to assess individuals for safety and gather information.
  2. Determining the least restrictive environment for crisis resolution and stabilization for the client.
  3. Arranging client placements for voluntary and involuntary hospitalization or detox services, when necessary.
  4. Communicating with Behavioral Health team about clients who have had crisis contact and participating in safety planning.
  5. Completing extensive clinical and legal documentation for each call taken during the workday and responsible for maintenance and timelines of all records, progress notes, and other required documentation.
  6. Provided testimony in court as required.
  7. Attends weekly supervision and team meetings as requested.
  8. Responsible for Behavioral Health quality management, compliance and chart reviews.
  9. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements/Minimum Qualifications
Education: Master's degree in social work , counseling, or related field.
Experience: Minimum oftwo years of clinical experience is required. Must be eligible for registration as Agency Affiliated Counselor of have active association or full license as LMHC or LICSW or other related license.
  • Knowledge of Evidenced Based theories, principles, and practices of the evaluation and treatment of persons exhibiting social, emotional, and/or behavioral difficulties.
  • Knowledge of DSM and American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) criteria.
  • Knowledge of case management/community support criteria and the ability to produce and maintain accurate and consistent records of each case. Knowledge of all federal, state and county rules and regulations as required in Washington Administrative Code (WAC), Revised Code of Washington (RCW), and contract requirements.
  • Proficient knowledge is use of standard office equipment including computers, copiers, fax machines as well as current computer software including Excel and Word.
  • Skill in record keeping and case management.
  • Skill in operation of office equipment used to provide the necessary information.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and working knowledge of Health Insurance Portability and accountability Act (HIPPE) regulations as it pertains to mental health and chemical dependency records.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing with clients, staff, and the public.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage conflict and flexible in crisis situations.

Licenses, Certificates and Other Requirements
  • Submit to a criminal background check, as required by Washington State Law.
  • Washington State Licensure through the Department of Health or capable of licensure within (6-months of employment).
  • Documented completion of continuing education on an annual basis to maintain certification and licensure as applicable.
  • Valid state driver's license in state of residence.

Klickitat County offers a generous benefit package which includes: Vacation, sick and paid holiday leave along with medical, dental, vision and life and LTD insurance and substantial County contributions towards premiums and a retirement package through the Washington State Department of Retirement System. Additionally, employees are offered a flexible spending account, two Deferred Compensation programs, voluntary life and LTD insurance, AFLAC coverage and a variety of on-going training programs.
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