About this position
About Us
For over 48 years, A Safe Place has served as Lake County’s leading advocate for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we are committed to safety, dignity, and long-term healing for individuals and families impacted by violence.
Every role here matters. Whether you work directly with survivors or support the systems behind the scenes, you are part of a trauma-informed organization building pathways to safety and independence.
About the Role
The Crisis Line Coordinator is a frontline responder and often the first voice a survivor hears.
You will answer and triage crisis calls, provide emotional support and safety planning, assess for shelter placement, and connect callers to resources. You will also support walk-in clients, coordinate with family advocates, and ensure timely, accurate documentation.
This is steady, high-impact work that requires clarity under pressure and compassion without compromise.
Who Thrives Here
You will thrive in this role if you:
- Stay calm and grounded during high-risk crisis calls
- Communicate clearly and compassionately in escalated situations
- Hold strong professional boundaries while remaining warm and respectful
- Think critically and make sound decisions quickly
- Stay organized in a fast-paced environment with high call volume
- Work collaboratively with shelter staff and supervisors
- Uphold confidentiality, ethics, and trauma-informed practices
The people who excel here are steady. They are emotionally intelligent, self-aware, and able to be a safe presence when someone else’s world feels unstable.
Key Responsibilities
Crisis Response
- Answer and assess hotline calls using trauma-informed care
- Provide de-escalation, safety planning, and referrals
- Support walk-in clients seeking shelter or services
Coordination & Follow-Up
- Connect clients to internal and external resources
- Collaborate with family advocates during shelter stays
Documentation & Compliance
- Maintain accurate, confidential records
- Complete case notes within 24 hours
Professional Standards
- Deliver respectful, nonjudgmental service
- Maintain confidentiality and ethical practice
Education and Credential Requirements
This position must meet eligibility as a Mental Health Professional under Illinois Medicaid guidelines, as the Crisis Line Coordinator completes IM-CAT assessments telephonically and provides real-time clinical support to individuals in crisis.
Candidates must meet one of the following:
- Bachelor’s degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, Education, Rehabilitation Counseling, Family Therapy, or a related human services field
- Bachelor’s degree in any field plus two (2) years of supervised clinical experience in a mental health setting
- Valid Illinois Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license
- High school diploma or GED plus five (5) years of documented mental health or human services experience
- DHS-approved Psychiatric Rehabilitation certificate plus two (2) years of mental health service experience
- Current CRSS or CFPP certification through IAODAPCA
- Licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant with at least one (1) year of mental health experience
- Behavioral Health Technician certification (Medical Education and Training Campus, Fort Sam Houston) plus one (1) year of supervised clinical experience
Required Qualifications
- Bilingual fluency in Spanish and English
- Ability to conduct structured clinical assessments over the phone
- Calm, grounded presence during high-risk crisis calls
- Strong understanding of trauma-informed care
- Commitment to ethical documentation and Medicaid compliance
This is frontline clinical work. The voice on the other end of the line may determine someone’s next step toward safety.
Core Competencies
- Experience in domestic violence, crisis intervention, or community-based mental health
- Familiarity with Medicaid, IM+CANS, or similar assessment tools
- Strong communication and conflict-resolution skills
- Cultural humility and the ability to serve diverse populations
- Ability to work independently while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team
- Strong organization and time management skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and agency systems
- Reliable vehicle, valid driver’s license, and active auto insurance
Schedule:
Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Compensation:
Starting $26.44 (paid bi-weekly; 26 pay periods)
Benefits
Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance; a Flexible Spending Account (FSA); a 401(k) retirement plan; generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays; and access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Why Join A Safe Place
- Mission-driven work with direct community impact
- Trauma-informed, collaborative work environment
- Opportunity to advocate for survivors and systemic change
- Meaningful professional development and training opportunities
Additional Information
This posting outlines the primary responsibilities of the role. A full job description will be provided upon hire.
Pre-Employment Requirements
Pre-employment requirements include DCFS and criminal background checks, fingerprinting, professional reference and license verification, and clearance through the sex offender registry and the Office of Inspector General (OIG).
Equal Opportunity & Inclusive Hiring Statement
A Safe Place is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and trauma-informed workplace. We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities and are dedicated to providing a respectful environment free from discrimination or harassment.
To Apply:
Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the position.