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Designated Crisis Responder information

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How much do designated crisis responder jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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 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 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 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 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.

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 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,018 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Designated Crisis Responder - Whatcom MCOT - On Call

Compass Health

Bellingham, WA • On-site

$44.17 - $65.30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Designated Crisis Responder (DCR) – On-Call
Location: Bellingham, WA
Program: 500-21360 – Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT)
Schedule: On-call (as needed)
Wage: $44.17–$65.30/hr DOE

Step Into a Frontline Role That Saves Lives

Are you ready to make a difference when it matters most? Compass Health is seeking an On-Call Designated Crisis Responder (DCR) to join our Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT) in Bellingham. As a DCR, you'll respond to individuals of all ages facing behavioral health crises—providing support, safety, and evaluation for involuntary treatment when necessary.

You’ll be part of a compassionate, trauma-informed team working in community-based settings such as homes, schools, shelters, and beyond. When the crisis hits, you’ll be there—not just to intervene, but to offer hope and connection on the path to recovery.

What You’ll Be Doing

  • Deliver in-person crisis intervention and behavioral health assessments

  • Determine the need for involuntary detention and initiate ITA processes when appropriate

  • Provide short-term stabilization, safety planning, and referrals to services

  • Collaborate with peers, providers, and law enforcement as part of a coordinated response

  • Support fellow team members and contribute to on-call crisis coverage in Whatcom County

What You Bring

  • MA/MS/MSW in a Behavioral Science-related field

  • Current WA licensure or equivalent (preferred) in Social Work, MFT, or Mental Health Counseling

  • Mental Health Professional (MHP) designation per WAC

  • Experience in crisis services, behavioral health, or social services (preferred)

  • Familiarity with RCW 71.05 and 71.34 (preferred)

  • Valid WA Driver’s License, insurance, and reliable transportation

  • Completion of DCR Academy by first annual review (required)

  • Proof of Hepatitis B vaccination (within 10 days of hire)

  • Must apply for Agency Affiliated Counselor status if not already licensed

Why Compass Health?

For over 110 years, Compass Health has been a cornerstone of behavioral health care in Northwest Washington. We serve individuals and families across Island, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, and Whatcom Counties with compassion, innovation, and a commitment to community-based care.

Here, your work has purpose. Your voice is heard. And your impact is real.

Compass Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences.