Portland Street Response: Mental Health Crisis Response in Portland

The provided source material is insufficient to produce a 2000-word article on hypnotherapy interventions, psychological well-being strategies, subconscious reprogramming techniques, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based mental health practices. Below is a factual summary based on available data regarding the Portland Street Response program and Mental Health Crisis Responder positions.

Portland Street Response Program Overview

The City of Portland has established the Portland Street Response (PSR) program as an alternative approach to traditional emergency response for individuals experiencing mental health and behavioral health crises. This program aims to update the first responder system by providing compassionate first response options when 911 is called for someone experiencing low-acuity behavioral health issues. The program operates through partnerships between Mental Health Crisis Responders, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), and Peer Support Specialists.

Mental Health Crisis Responder Position Details

The City of Portland has posted multiple Mental Health Crisis Responder II positions within the Portland Street Response program. These positions are characterized by the following attributes:

  • Compensation: $39.29-$57.10 hourly ($59,072-$109,512 annually), depending on the specific posting
  • Schedule: Four 10-hour days with three days off per week, including days, afternoons, nights, and holidays
  • Work locations include 330 SW Curry St., 12350 SE Powell Blvd., or 206 NW 1st St. in Portland
  • Full-time, regular positions with union representation through Professional Technical Employees, Local 17 (PROTEC-17)
  • Language pay differential eligibility for qualifying employees

Position Responsibilities

Mental Health Crisis Responders II are responsible for:

  • Providing immediate mobile crisis response to 911 service calls according to program policies
  • Engaging with diverse clients across social, cultural, and economic differences respectfully and collaboratively
  • Identifying and assessing risk factors for harm to self or others
  • Considering and articulating potential outcomes of various interventions
  • Providing crisis intervention, face-to-face mental health assessments, information and referrals
  • Offering brief supportive counseling to clients in emotional distress
  • Participating in cases requiring higher levels of intervention
  • Providing case consultation and clinical supervision to Mental Health Crisis Responder I positions
  • Input for performance reviews of Mental Health Crisis Responder I positions

Qualifications and Requirements

Applicants for Mental Health Crisis Responder II positions must possess:

  • Knowledge of privacy rules and laws including HIPAA, mandatory reporting requirements, and legal responsibilities
  • Understanding of cultural differences and their intersections and impact on client engagement
  • Experience assessing clients' risk of harm to self or others and effectively mitigating identified risks
  • Knowledge of medical terminology and experience navigating health systems
  • Ability to recognize and respond to client reactivity with de-escalation strategies
  • Valid state driver's license with acceptable driving record
  • One or more of the following active licenses:
    • Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
    • Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
    • Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

Physical Demands

The position requires: - Moving equipment weighing up to 40 lbs - Bending, stooping, kneeling, squatting, and standing on uneven surfaces for extended periods

Program Purpose and Approach

The Portland Street Response program specifically targets non-emergent 911 calls that present no criminal intent, fire, or medical emergency. The program focuses on individuals exhibiting sub-acute crises, behavioral health conditions, and substance abuse issues. The Mental Health Crisis Responder II works as part of a team to provide assessment, intervention, and support to these individuals in the community setting.

Application Process

Interested applicants must: - Submit applications through the City of Portland's online portal - Attach a resume and cover letter - Complete a supplemental questionnaire with specific and unique responses to each question

The City of Portland offers free "How to Apply Classes" to assist applicants with the application process and encourages diversity in employment applications.

Conclusion

The Portland Street Response program represents a community-based approach to mental health crisis intervention, positioning qualified mental health professionals to respond directly to individuals in crisis. The Mental Health Crisis Responder II positions require specific clinical qualifications and skills to provide assessment, intervention, and support to individuals experiencing behavioral health crises. This model aims to provide more appropriate responses to non-emergency mental health calls while alleviating pressure on traditional emergency services.

Sources

  1. City of Portland - Portland Street Response Mental Health Crisis Responder II - Extended
  2. City of Portland - Portland Street Response Mental Health Crisis Responder II
  3. City of Portland - Portland Street Response Mental Health Crisis Responder II Extended

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