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13 Pathways Crisis Counselor Jobs Hiring Near You

Pathways complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and provides equal employment ... We are seeking a calm, reliable, and tech-savvy Crisis Line Counselor I to provide crisis ...

Pathways complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and provides equal employment ... We are seeking a calm, reliable, and tech-savvy Crisis Line Counselor I to provide crisis ...

Pathways complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and provides equal employment ... We are seeking a calm, reliable, and tech-savvy Crisis Line Counselor I to provide crisis ...

Pathways complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and provides equal employment ... We are seeking a calm, reliable, and tech-savvy Crisis Line Counselor I to provide crisis ...

Pathways Jobs Information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Crisis Counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crisis Counselor, you need a background in psychology or social work, strong crisis intervention skills, and often a relevant certification such as Certified Crisis Counselor (CCC) or equivalent licensure. Familiarity with crisis hotlines, case management software, and risk assessment tools is typically required. Exceptional active listening, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for providing immediate support, ensuring client safety, and facilitating effective intervention during high-stress situations.

What are some common challenges Crisis Counselors face when supporting clients, and how are these addressed within the team?

Crisis Counselors often encounter highly emotional or unpredictable situations, which can be challenging both emotionally and logistically. Managing intense conversations, ensuring client safety, and maintaining personal well-being are central concerns. Most organizations provide regular supervision, debriefings, and peer support to help counselors process difficult experiences and prevent burnout. Working collaboratively with other team members, including supervisors and clinical staff, ensures that clients receive comprehensive support and that counselors are not handling complex cases alone.

What are crisis counselors?

Crisis counselors are trained professionals who provide immediate support, guidance, and intervention to individuals experiencing emotional, mental, or behavioral crises. Their primary role is to help people navigate difficult situations such as trauma, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or other emergencies, often through phone, text, or in-person sessions. Crisis counselors assess the individual's needs, offer coping strategies, and connect them to appropriate long-term resources or services. They play a critical role in preventing harm and supporting individuals during their most vulnerable moments.

What is the difference between Crisis Counselor vs Mental Health Counselor?

AspectCrisis CounselorMental Health Counselor
Required CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or associate's degree; some roles need certification or licensureRequires a master's degree in mental health or counseling and state licensure
Work EnvironmentOften works in crisis centers, helplines, hospitals, or community settingsWorks in clinics, private practices, hospitals, or community agencies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by crisis intervention services, mental health agencies, and hospitalsEmployed by mental health clinics, private practices, hospitals, and schools

While both Crisis Counselors and Mental Health Counselors support individuals with mental health challenges, Crisis Counselors focus on immediate, short-term intervention during crises, often in urgent settings. Mental Health Counselors provide ongoing therapy and treatment for a wide range of mental health issues. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments, but their primary focus and scope differ.

What are the most popular categories at Pathways?
Infographic showing various Crisis Counselor job openings at Pathways in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Crisis Line Counselor I

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Pathways complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, pregnancy status, victim status, marital status, member of the armed services or covered veteran status, or any other status that is protected by applicable federal, state, and/or local laws.    This policy includes, but is not limited to: recruitment, employment, promotion, demotion, transfer, termination, compensation, benefits, layoffs, training, and social and recreational programs. 

Compensation:

  • Starting at $18/hour

  • Increase to $20/hour within the first year

Schedule:

  • Saturdays, 8:15 PM – 8:45 AM

  • Flexibility to cover additional shifts during staff vacations as needed

Position Summary:

We are seeking a calm, reliable, and tech-savvy Crisis Line Counselor I to provide crisis intervention and suicide prevention support. This role includes answering crisis calls, texts, and chats, scheduling follow-ups, referring individuals to appropriate community resources, and occasionally accompanying Mobile Crisis staff on in-person community responses.


Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide immediate crisis and suicide intervention support via phone, text, and chat

  • Refer callers to appropriate behavioral health, substance use, and emergency resources

  • Monitor the status of active cases through follow-up

  • Schedule appointments for after-hours callers

  • Accompany Mobile Crisis staff on community-based responses when needed

  • Document all interactions accurately and in a timely manner

  • Use programs such as Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, and Avatar (EHR)


Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED (required)

  • Experience in behavioral health, crisis intervention, or call center settings preferred

  • Strong multitasking and communication skills

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office and basic EHR systems (Avatar experience a plus)

  • General knowledge of mental health, substance use, and crisis resources

  • Ability to remain calm in high-stress situations and handle sensitive conversations

  • Must be comfortable working overnight and occasionally responding in the field