Experienced Remote 988 Crisis Chat and Text Support Representative for Emotional Support and Crisis Intervention in the Tampa Bay Area

Introduction to blithequark and the 988 Crisis and Suicide Lifeline

At blithequark, we are committed to providing compassionate and professional support to individuals in crisis through the 988 Crisis and Suicide Lifeline. As a leader in crisis intervention and emotional support, we are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Remote 988 Chat/Text Representative to join our team. This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need while working remotely from the Tampa Bay, FL area. If you are a motivated and caring individual with a passion for helping others, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding position.

Job Overview

As a Remote 988 Chat/Text Representative at blithequark, you will play a vital role in providing emotional support and crisis intervention to individuals who reach out for help through the 988 Crisis and Suicide Lifeline. This position requires a unique blend of compassion, active listening, and crisis management skills to ensure that clients feel understood, valued, and supported during their time of need. If you are eager to make a difference in the lives of others and are comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, we invite you to join our team of dedicated professionals.

Key Responsibilities

• Respond to incoming chat and text inquiries from individuals seeking assistance through the 988 Crisis and Suicide Lifeline, providing empathetic and sensitive support to ensure clients feel understood and valued.
• Uphold performance metrics in accordance with the standards set by the 988 Lifeline, ensuring that all interactions meet the highest standards of quality and compassion.
• Engage with individuals in imminent crisis, utilizing de-escalation techniques, safety planning, and strategies to reduce risk during conversations, and facilitate referrals, coordinate with mobile crisis units, and collaborate with law enforcement in emergency situations as needed.
• Deliver exceptional customer service and support to clients, establishing and maintaining trust-based, confidential relationships during and after interactions.
• Complete required Lifeline Simulation Training and participate in annual refresher training to ensure that your skills and knowledge are up-to-date and aligned with best practices in crisis intervention.
• Attain a monthly quality assurance score of no less than 85%, demonstrating your commitment to excellence and continuous improvement in your work.
• Pursue certification in crisis support through the American Association of Suicidology (AAS) when eligible, enhancing your skills and career trajectory within the field of crisis management and emotional support.
• Participate in national, state, and local meetings and outreach initiatives as required, contributing to the development of best practices and strategies in crisis intervention and emotional support.
• Engage in ongoing training, supervision, and team meetings to enhance team cohesion and effectiveness, and contribute to departmental goals and support organizational success through collaboration and teamwork.
• Adhere to all organizational policies, practices, and procedures, ensuring that your work is aligned with the values and mission of blithequark.

Essential Qualifications

To be successful in this role, you will need to possess a unique blend of skills, knowledge, and experience. The following qualifications are essential:

• A Bachelor's Degree is preferred; however, candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent combined with relevant experience will be considered.
• A minimum of one year of experience in crisis management, mental health, or substance abuse support is required, with prior experience in crisis communication utilizing chat or text being essential.
• Exceptional verbal communication and customer service abilities, with strong time management and multitasking skills.
• Proficient in data entry and computer operations, including email communication, recordkeeping, and database management.
• Competent in interpreting and responding to various documents and client inquiries, with the ability to present information clearly to individuals or groups.
• A background in Health and Human Services is preferred, with a strong understanding of the principles and practices of crisis intervention and emotional support.

Preferred Qualifications

In addition to the essential qualifications, the following skills and experience are preferred:

• Certification in crisis support through the American Association of Suicidology (AAS) or a related field.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong knowledge of crisis intervention and emotional support principles and practices, with the ability to apply this knowledge in a variety of situations.
• Experience working with diverse populations, including individuals from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, and demographic backgrounds.

Skills and Competencies

To be successful in this role, you will need to possess a range of skills and competencies, including:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients and colleagues.
• Empathy and compassion, with the ability to understand and respond to the needs of clients in crisis.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills, with the ability to analyze situations and develop effective solutions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a strong commitment to collaboration and teamwork.
• Strong time management and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple priorities.

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

At blithequark, we are committed to supporting the career growth and development of our employees. As a Remote 988 Chat/Text Representative, you will have access to a range of training and development opportunities, including:

• Ongoing training and supervision to enhance your skills and knowledge in crisis intervention and emotional support.
• Opportunities for certification in crisis support through the American Association of Suicidology (AAS) or a related field.
• Participation in national, state, and local meetings and outreach initiatives to contribute to the development of best practices and strategies in crisis intervention and emotional support.
• Collaboration with a team of experienced professionals who are passionate about providing exceptional support to clients in crisis.

Work Environment and Company Culture

At blithequark, we are committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a Remote 988 Chat/Text Representative, you will be working remotely from the Tampa Bay, FL area, with the opportunity to collaborate with a team of experienced professionals who are passionate about providing exceptional support to clients in crisis. Our company culture is built on the values of compassion, empathy, and respect, and we are committed to supporting the well-being and success of our employees.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

At blithequark, we offer a competitive compensation package that includes a range of perks and benefits, including:

• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Flexible working arrangements, including the opportunity to work remotely from the Tampa Bay, FL area.
• Access to a range of training and development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge in crisis intervention and emotional support.

Conclusion

If you are a compassionate and motivated individual who is passionate about providing exceptional support to clients in crisis, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding position. As a Remote 988 Chat/Text Representative at blithequark, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others while working in a dynamic and supportive environment. Don't miss this opportunity to join our team of dedicated professionals and contribute to the important work of providing crisis intervention and emotional support to those in need. Apply today to become a part of the blithequark team and start making a difference in the lives of others.