Stop Fixing, Start Listening: A Radical Approach to Mental Health Crises
When someone is in crisis, what helps most isn’t a diagnosis or a checklist- it’s being heard, believed, and treated with dignity. This article explores how cities, clinicians, and law enforcement are rethinking mental health response by centering listening, trust, shared decision-making, and staff wellness in everyday practice. From crisis teams and peer support to integrated care and community partnerships, it shows how embedding mental wellness into public life can turn routine services into pathways for safety, healing, and long-term recovery.
Listening as a Foundational Practice in Mental Health Engagement
People in mental crisis often feel isolated and ignored. Even with good intentions, professionals can sometimes make things worse by focusing on advice or directions. Instead, it's important to give the person space to speak, even if their thoughts seem jumbled or hard to follow. This kind of active listening can help calm the situation and build a real connection. Research shows that people in acute distress feel better when their emotions are recognized, rather than facing only clinical assessments or procedures (SAMHSA 2014)1.
In real-life situations, listening means being patient, showing understanding through body language, and holding back from interrupting or correcting. Many city crisis response teams, including those that pair police with mental health professionals, are using these listening methods. For police officers, who are often the first ones to respond, listening with empathy can lower the chance of things getting worse and help build trust. Officers who show care and a true interest in hearing someone's story can create a feeling of safety and respect. These programs focus on building a connection before taking action. For example, the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) model shows that when officers listen and use calming techniques, violence is much less likely (Watson and Compton 2019)2. The main point is that making space for someone to be heard can sometimes help more than offering quick solutions. This approach supports dignity and opens the door to long-term help and healing.
Building Trust Through Consistency and Transparency
Trust can be hard to build in mental health settings, especially for people who have had bad experiences with institutions. Those in crisis may carry memories of forced treatment, legal problems, or social stigma, all of which can make them feel more vulnerable. That’s why clear, honest communication is so important. Providers should be upfront about what they can and can’t do, explain what will happen next, and offer any available choices. This kind of openness helps people feel more in control, which can be reassuring during a crisis (Davidson et al. 2009)3. When people know what to expect, they are more likely to feel safe and respected, which is often the first step toward getting better.
City staff should also remember that trust is built not just in one-on-one conversations, but throughout the whole system. For law enforcement, trust comes from more than just answering one call - it means showing up regularly, keeping promises, and treating everyone with respect. Officers who explain what they’re doing, follow up after a crisis, and treat people with kindness help rebuild trust between communities and institutions. Reliable services like crisis hotlines, mobile teams, and walk-in centers show the public that mental health help is safe and dependable. A good example is the CAHOOTS program in Eugene, Oregon, which has earned public trust over many years by offering steady, non-police crisis support (White Bird Clinic 2020)4. When staff, including police, follow through and stay consistent, it builds trust and encourages people to keep seeking help even after the immediate crisis ends. This dependable support shows communities that help is both caring and available.
Empowering Through Choice and Collaboration
Offering choices, even small ones, can make a big difference for people facing mental health challenges. While safety may limit some options, allowing people to decide things like whether to speak with a peer support worker or a clinician, or whether to take a walk during de-escalation, can help them feel more in control. This fits with recovery-based care models that center on a person’s values and goals (Slade 2009)5. Giving people choices helps rebuild a sense of control, which is often lost during a crisis.
Working together is just as important. It changes the relationship from a provider-versus-patient dynamic to a partnership, where the person in crisis is seen as the expert on their own life. For police, this means teaming up with mental health professionals and peer workers to respond in ways that match the individual’s needs and preferences. Officers who work with kindness and humility show respect for people's lived experiences. City programs that involve peer support specialists - people who have gone through mental health recovery themselves - often see better results and stronger connections. These peers can help bridge the gap between individuals and services by using shared experiences to build trust (Repper and Carter 2011)6. In daily practice, collaboration should be part of treatment planning, crisis safety plans, and follow-up care. Officers trained in how to collaborate are more likely to calm situations safely and connect people with the right services. Sharing decisions in this way helps build resilience and supports long-term recovery.
Structuring Services to Support Holistic Wellness
Health and mental wellness go hand in hand. Addressing mental health without also looking at housing, jobs, physical health, and social support is not enough. City agencies should look at the whole picture when designing programs. This means linking mental health care with primary health care, offering case management, and making sure addiction treatment is available when needed. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recommends integrated care models as a best practice to improve overall health outcomes (SAMHSA 2021)7. These models support a more complete and helpful environment for people trying to heal.
Community-based support is also a key part of whole-person wellness. Faith groups, neighborhood groups, and cultural organizations can be strong partners in mental health efforts. City agencies should work with these groups to create programs that meet the unique needs of each community. For example, programs that include traditional healing practices have been shown to work well, especially in communities that are often underserved (Gone and Calf Looking 2011)8. Police departments can help by building relationships with these groups, joining community events, and supporting outreach work. Officers who engage with the community outside of crisis situations help reduce the stigma around mental health and show a long-term commitment to wellness. Programs that reflect the everyday realities of the people they serve are more likely to succeed. A broad, inclusive approach makes it more likely that wellness can be reached and maintained across different groups.
Training and Support for Frontline Staff
The success of mental health programs often depends on the people who are on the front lines. Cities need to invest in regular, high-quality training for everyone who might interact with someone in crisis - not just mental health professionals, but also police officers, EMTs, outreach workers, and transit staff. Training should include topics like trauma-informed care, cultural awareness, motivational interviewing, and ways to calm tense situations. For police, this kind of training is key to making encounters safer, reducing force, and improving outcomes during mental health calls. Officers with this training are better prepared to respond with patience and care, which can make a big difference in a crisis. These skills also help staff feel more confident and reduce the chance of negative interactions (Compton et al. 2014)9. As staff become better equipped to handle crises with compassion, the whole community benefits from safer, more positive interactions.
Just as important is supporting the mental health of the staff themselves. People who respond to crises often deal with high stress and trauma. Local governments should make sure that employee wellness programs include access to mental health care, peer support groups, and time to process tough experiences. Police officers, in particular, benefit from private mental health services and group debriefings led by peers that focus on the unique stresses of the job. Officers who feel supported in their own mental health are better able to care for others. Supporting staff in this way helps prevent burnout, improves service quality, and builds a more stable workforce. The National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors says that staff wellness is a central part of a strong behavioral health system - not just a bonus (NASMHPD 2018)10. A workforce that is healthy and supported is better able to serve the community with kindness, steadiness, and care.
Conclusion: Embedding Mental Wellness in Public Infrastructure
Supporting health and mental wellness takes more than one-time fixes. It means building wellness into everyday public services. This could include placing social workers in libraries, offering mindfulness classes in parks, or designing city spaces that support mental well-being. These efforts need to be intentional and regularly updated to meet the changing needs of the community. Making wellness part of daily life shows that care and healing are always available - not just during a crisis.
For people working in city government, especially at the local level, supporting mental health means using empathy and proven strategies in daily operations. This is not just the job of mental health departments - it’s a shared goal across all parts of government. Law enforcement plays a big role in this, since officers are often the first to respond when someone is in crisis. When officers act with compassion, consistency, and respect for human dignity, they can help people heal. By creating systems that listen, empower, and support both residents and staff, cities can build places where mental wellness is the norm. Change is not only possible - it’s already happening, driven by a shared vision of healthier, more caring communities.
Bibliography
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014). Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 14-4816.
Watson, A. C., & Compton, M. T. (2019). What Research on Crisis Intervention Teams Tells Us and What We Need to Ask. Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law, 47(4), 422-426.
Davidson, L., Tondora, J., O’Connell, M. J., Kirk, T., Rockholz, P., & Evans, A. C. (2009). A Practical Guide to Recovery-Oriented Practice: Tools for Transforming Mental Health Care. Oxford University Press.
White Bird Clinic. (2020). CAHOOTS Overview. Retrieved from https://whitebirdclinic.org/cahoots/
Slade, M. (2009). Personal Recovery and Mental Illness: A Guide for Mental Health Professionals. Cambridge University Press.
Repper, J., & Carter, T. (2011). A Review of the Literature on Peer Support in Mental Health Services. Journal of Mental Health, 20(4), 392-411.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2021). Integrated Care Models. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/integrated-care
Gone, J. P., & Calf Looking, P. E. (2011). American Indian Culture as Substance Abuse Treatment: Pursuing Evidence for a Local Intervention. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 43(4), 291-296.
Compton, M. T., Bahora, M., Watson, A. C., & Oliva, J. R. (2014). A Comprehensive Review of Extant Research on Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Programs. The Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law, 36(1), 47-55.
National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD). (2018). Promoting Staff Wellness in Behavioral Health. Retrieved from https://nasmhpd.org/
More from Health and Mental Wellness
Explore related articles on similar topics
Top Paying Jobs in Health and Mental Wellness
Highest paying opportunities related to this article
ABOUT THE ROLE Correctional Health Services in Phoenix, Arizona, is seeking a Board Eligible/Board Certified (BE/BC) psychiatrist to work within an interdisciplinary team. This role provides integrated health care to incarcerated individuals navigating the judicial system, offering a unique opportunity to make substantial positive changes in the lives of patients, their families, and the community within an industry-leading county jail healthcare system. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Evaluate new admissions to reach a diagnosis and treat identified mental illness - Re-evaluate patients under care to refine diagnosis and treatment as indicated - Prescribe medications following the CHS Pharmacy Formulary - Document evaluation, treatment, and patient interactions clearly and in compliance with licensure and accreditation requirements - Manage patients requiring involuntary treatment, including initiating Court-ordered evaluations and participating in the Psychiatric Medication Review Board - Participate in the Mental Health Interdisciplinary Treatment team and assist in developing Special Needs Treatment Plans - Coordinate with the Forensic Team for patients in forensic programs - Develop psychiatric protocols and clinical practice guidelines appropriate for the correctional setting - Assist with preparation for licensure and accreditation surveys - Maintain licensure, certifications, and other credentialing as indicated MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Three years of experience in psychiatric evaluation and treatment - Doctoral degree in Medicine (MD, DO) - Completed accredited Residency Program in Psychiatry - Current license as a Psychiatrist in the State of Arizona issued by the State of Arizona Medical Board SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be able to work inside a jail, stand, walk, and bend for extended periods while handling a high volume of work - Position includes day or night shift work, which may include weekends and holidays - Travel or floating to various clinical locations within a 5-mile radius is required - Must be able to respond to emergencies, maintain CPR certification, perform CPR/chest compressions, push medical equipment, climb stairs, and lift patients on a gurney - Must pass a fingerprint background check and maintain MCSO jail access - CPR certification is required upon hire - Physician Dispensing Certificate Registration is required upon hire - Valued qualifications: Experience working with incarcerated individuals, experience with mentally ill patients in an institutional environment, Clozapine REMS certification, and Suboxone waiver SELECTION PROCESS - Consideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applications - Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile - Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation, including drug and alcohol testing requirements for safety-sensitive positions HOW TO APPLY - Submit an online application before the application deadline of August 24, 2026 (End Date: August 25, 2026) - For reasonable accommodation during the application process or to perform essential functions under the ADA, contact MHRFeedback@maricopa.gov to initiate the interactive process EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Maricopa County - Location: 3250 W Lower Buckeye Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85009 - Job Type: Full time, Unclassified - Department: Correctional Health - Job Requisition ID: JR24139 - Posting Date: 07/24/26 - Application Deadline: 08/24/26
ABOUT THE ROLE Correctional Health Services in Phoenix, Arizona, is seeking an Addictionologist to work within an interdisciplinary team providing integrated health care to incarcerated individuals navigating the judicial system. This role involves leading the development and expansion of Substance Use treatments within the Maricopa County jail setting, offering a unique opportunity to make a substantial positive change in the lives of patients, their families, and the community. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop and implement CHS Policies, Standard Operating Procedures, and Clinical Practice Guidelines related to prevention, screening, intervention, and treatment of patients with Substance Use Disorders. - Evaluate patients with addiction disorders and provide evidence-based treatments, including managing withdrawal symptoms and providing Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). - Recognize, evaluate, and treat psychiatric and physical complications of addiction collaboratively with medical, mental health, psychiatric, and re-entry teams. - Manage a caseload of patients with Substance Use Disorders to refine diagnoses and treatments. - Document evaluation, treatment, and patient interactions clearly and in compliance with CHS workflows and accreditation requirements. - Help coordinate the transfer of care of Substance Use Disorder patients back into the community upon release. - Keep abreast of changes in laws regarding illegal substances, prescribing controlled substances, and clinical alternatives to criminal prosecution. - Provide guidance, training, and consultation related to Substance Use disorders for Addiction team members, CHS clinical staff, administration, MCSO staff, and county leadership. - Maintain licensure, certifications, and other credentialing as indicated. - Assist CHS with preparation for licensure and accreditation surveys. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Doctoral degree in Medicine (MD or DO). - Completed an accredited Residency Program in Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Emergency Medicine, or other accredited Residency Program. - Addiction certification by the American Board of Preventive Medicine (ABPM), American Osteopathic Association (AOA), American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), or American Board of Addiction Medicine (ABAM), or equivalent. - OR five or more years of working with a strong focus on Addiction Medicine may substitute for certification. - OR completion of a Fellowship in addiction medicine and two years of experience practicing in addiction medicine or direct care may substitute for certification. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Ability to work inside a jail and stand, walk, and bend for extended periods while handling a high volume of work and adapting to frequent changes. - Position includes day or night shift work, which may include weekends and holidays. - Traveling or floating to various clinical locations within a 5-mile radius is required. - Must be able to respond to emergencies, maintain CPR certification, perform CPR/chest compressions, push medical equipment, climb stairs, and lift patients on a gurney. - Must pass a fingerprint background check and maintain MCSO jail access. - Valid, unrestricted license to practice medicine issued by the Arizona Medical Board (or ability to obtain an Arizona license) required upon hire. - Current CPR Certification required upon hire. - Current DEA Certification required upon hire. - Current Controlled Substance Dispensing License required upon hire. SELECTION PROCESS - Consideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applications. - Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile. - Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy, including drug and alcohol testing for safety-sensitive positions. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online through the Maricopa County Workday portal. - For reasonable accommodations during the application process under the ADA, contact MHRFeedback@maricopa.gov to initiate the interactive process. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Full time, Unclassified - Department: Correctional Health - Location: 3250 W Lower Buckeye Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85009 - Posting Date: 07/27/2026 - Application Deadline: 09/11/2026 - Employer: Maricopa County - Benefits: Tuition reimbursement, exceptional work-life balance, growth opportunities, low-cost high-value healthcare, child care benefits (Maricopa County Kids Club), paid vacation, sick time, parental leave, extensive wellness program with incentives, and enrollment in the Arizona State Retirement System with a 100% employer match on Day 1.
ABOUT THE ROLE - Serve as the State Chief Medical Epidemiologist for the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Public Health, Community Health. - Based at the Public Health Lab in Smyrna, Delaware. - This is an exempt position outside the State of Delaware Merit System. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Specific daily duties are not detailed in the provided text. - The role generally involves directing statewide epidemiological investigations, disease surveillance, and public health medical responses. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Specific educational and experiential requirements are not listed in the provided text. - Roles of this level typically require a medical degree, specialized public health training, and significant epidemiological experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be available to work standard shift hours of 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. - Must be available for some weekends and after-hours work as required by public health needs. SELECTION PROCESS - Specific evaluation and interview steps are not detailed in the provided text. HOW TO APPLY - Contact DHSS Talent Acquisition for application instructions and to request the full job description. - Phone: 302-739-5458 - Reference Recruitment Number: 071726-MUDB05-350500 EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employment Type: Actual Vacancy - Employment Term: Regular - Agency: DHSS / Public Health / Community Health - Type of Recruitment: Exempt-Non Merit - Opening Date: 07/21/2026 - Closing Date: 01/16/2027 at 11:59 PM - Location: Public Health Lab, 30 Sunnyside Rd, Smyrna, DE 19977
ABOUT THE ROLE Seattle City Light, a department of the City of Seattle, is seeking a Safety, Health, and Wellness Director to provide enterprise-level strategic leadership on all safety matters. Reporting to the Chief People and Culture Officer, this senior management role oversees a budget of approximately $4.1 million. The primary objective is to ensure every employee has a physically and psychologically safe workplace, shaping organizational culture with a care-centric approach and participating in interdepartmental teams. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide executive leadership and direction across Safety, Health, and Wellness functions, ensuring alignment with utility and Citywide objectives. - Plan, organize, and direct functions that promote a safety culture using a methodical, data-informed approach. - Lead, coach, and support leadership across diverse functions, building leadership capacity and strengthening cross-functional coordination. - Provide fiscal oversight for operating unit budgets, aligning work plans to strategic priorities and maintaining budget compliance. - Serve as the utility's representative, engaging with executive leadership, City partners, labor partners, and external agencies. - Formulate and advance policy, program, and foundational framework recommendations to strengthen organizational effectiveness. - Actively promote and operationalize Citywide and utility initiatives related to equity, inclusion, and social justice. - Perform other related duties as assigned to maintain continuity and mitigate risk. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Experience: 10 or more years of progressively responsible management and leadership assignments, including at least 7 years as a senior leader in a large, complex, multicultural, and diverse organization. - Skills: Demonstrated ability in complex negotiations, developing consensus, crisis resolution, and working with diverse stakeholders including employees, executives, elected officials, and various agencies. - Commitment: Proven track record of promoting and managing strategic initiatives related to fair employment, diversity, and social justice. - Education: Bachelor's degree in business, public administration, human resources, safety, engineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Certification/License: A valid Washington State Driver's License is required. - Emergency Response: Must participate in the Seattle City Light Emergency Response Program, taking on an assigned role to support emergency operations when needed. SELECTION PROCESS - Application review to ensure qualifications are met. - Job offers are contingent on the verification of credentials and a background check. - The background check includes a criminal history check in compliance with Seattle's Fair Chance Employment Ordinance. - A driving history review may be conducted in compliance with local municipal codes. - Applicants will be provided an opportunity to explain or correct background information. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an online application through the City of Seattle portal. - Include a cover letter clearly describing how your knowledge, experience, skills, and abilities prepare you for the responsibilities and qualifications of the role. - Include a current resume detailing your educational and professional work experience. - Ensure the application is complete, as incomplete applications may not be considered. - The position is open to all candidates who meet the qualifications. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Seattle (Seattle City Light) - Job Type: Civil Service Exempt, Regular, Full-time - Location: Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 5th Ave., Seattle, WA - Job Number: 2026-00895 - Closing Date: Continuous - Benefits: Comprehensive package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave, as well as medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance for employees and dependents. - Additional: Competitive total compensation and relocation packages are available depending on qualifications and experience.
ABOUT THE ROLE The Animal Care and Control Director provides executive-level leadership and strategic direction for all programs and operations within Charlotte Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control. Reporting to the General Services Director and Deputy Director, this role ensures the welfare and humane treatment of animals while advancing public health and safety. The Director oversees animal control enforcement, shelter operations, veterinary clinical services, community outreach, and public education, leading a diverse team of professionals to deliver compassionate care and effective services. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide strategic leadership and administrative oversight for all functions of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control - Develop and implement strategies to promote responsible pet ownership, control stray populations, and increase live-release rates - Develop, manage, and recommend the division budget, authorize expenditures, and approve budgets of direct reports - Serve as Administrative Hearing Officer for appeals regarding dangerous dog declarations, nuisance declarations, enforcement orders, and civil citations - Serve as the Mecklenburg County Dog Warden in cooperation with the Mecklenburg County Health Department - Plan, direct, and evaluate work procedures for the enforcement of state and local animal laws - Oversee humane shelter operations, ensuring proper protocols for animal handling, housing, and euthanasia - Direct and maintain all necessary licenses for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Services Clinic - Provide leadership, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to subordinate managers and staff - Identify and respond to community concerns, evaluating the adequacy of existing services and developing new programs as needed MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's Degree with major course work in zoology, animal husbandry, veterinary science, or a related field (Master's Degree preferred) - A minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in a municipal, public sector, or nonprofit animal welfare environment - A minimum of five (5) years of experience in a supervisory or management capacity - Valid North Carolina or South Carolina Driver's License - Preferred: Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) credential SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Certification requirements for chemical immobilization - Completion of course requirements as required by the State for Cruelty Investigators - Ability to work in disagreeable conditions, continuously exposed to noise, intermittent standing, walking, and occasional pushing, carrying, or lifting - Must pass a pre-employment drug-screening test and physical examination SELECTION PROCESS - Final candidates are subject to a comprehensive background check, including reference checks, social security verification, education verification, criminal conviction record check, and applicable credit history, sex offender registry, and motor vehicle records checks - Candidates may be asked to take a skills test and/or participate in other assessments during the selection process - All background checks and screenings must comply with federal and state statutes, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) HOW TO APPLY - Apply online through the official City of Charlotte careers portal before the closing date - Self-service application kiosks are available at the Human Resources Department lobby: 700 East 4th Street, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28202 (Open Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. EST, excluding official City holidays) - For questions about the application or hiring process, email Careers@ci.charlotte.nc.us - To request reasonable accommodations, fill out the Innovation & Technology ADA request form or call 704.336.4120 EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Charlotte - Department: General Services Department - Job Type: Full time - Job Requisition ID: JR104197 - Date Opened: Tuesday, July 21, 2026 - Close Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 12:00 AM - Location: Animal Control, Charlotte, NC - Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package available to eligible employees (details available on the City of Charlotte website)
About the Role This position is for a Psychologist at Eastern State Hospital, a fully accredited psychiatric inpatient state-owned hospital in Medical Lake, WA. The role focuses on providing exceptional evidence-based care without production-driven pressures, offering clinical autonomy, a person-centered approach, and a quality work-life balance. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday with no on-call requirements, and hybrid or alternative work schedules may be available after a 6-month probationary period. Key Responsibilities - Provide individual and group psychotherapy to support patient treatment goals, empower patients, and support self-discovery - Provide consultation to multidisciplinary treatment teams - Complete psychological assessments along with supporting clinical documentation - Provide court-required documentation and expert testimony as needed - Civil and Forensic Hybrid Ward: Provide a full range of psychological services, assist in assessing risk for community integration, and consult courts on suitability for increased community access - Discharge Consultation and ITA Evaluator: Conduct structured risk assessments for discharge readiness and evaluate patients for continued involuntary treatment pursuant to Washington's Involuntary Treatment Act Minimum Qualifications - Doctor of Psychology (Ph.D./Psy.D.) in clinical or forensic psychology from an accredited university - Licensed or eligible to obtain a license in Washington to practice psychology by the hire date (applicants with a completed degree pursuing licensure will be considered) - Experience with inpatient civil and forensic populations and/or people with severe behavioral health issues - Eligible for a 12-month In-Training position, allowing up to 12 months to become fully licensed and achieve in-training objectives Special Requirements - Valid driver's license if driving on state business - Liability insurance on privately owned vehicles if used for state business - Must disclose any relative, household member, close friend, or romantic partner within the potential supervisory chain of command in compliance with the DSHS Relationships and Reporting Structure policy Selection Process - A background check, including criminal record history, will be conducted prior to hiring - Background check information will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform the job - This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies How to Apply - Submit an application via the official State of Washington job portal before the closing date - For questions, contact sean.brauner@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number 2026-01979 Employment Details - Employer: State of Washington, Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) - Division: BHHA - Location: Spokane County - Medical Lake, WA (Eastern State Hospital) - Job Type: Full Time - Permanent - Job Number: 2026-01979 - Opening Date: 08/05/2026 - Closing Date: 8/19/2026 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time (US & Canada); Tijuana - Equal Opportunity Employer
ABOUT THE ROLE This position provides financial leadership, management, and oversight within the Administrative Services Division of Public Health at King County. Reporting to the division finance and administrative services manager, the role involves business planning, accounting, contracting, biennial budget development, financial analysis, and sustainability planning. The administrator acts as a key adviser and coordinator for multiple projects and programs. This recruitment will also create an eligibility pool for future career service, term-limited temporary, or special duty assignment vacancies. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Act as a key financial and budget adviser to the division - Oversee financial and business management, including accounting, biennial budgets, and contracts/grants management - Develop quantitative analyses and financial modeling for potential funding changes - Perform regular and ad-hoc financial data research, compilation, and interpretation - Ensure compliance with grants management, including applications and billings - Ensure the accuracy of financial accounting systems and financial information - Review and approve contracts for the division - Administer policies and procedures for personnel, purchasing, contracting, and regulatory issues - Supervise assigned staff and perform quality checks on technical work - Interpret and participate in the development of administrative policies and procedures - Represent the division at department-wide finance meetings - Analyze internal systems and recommend performance improvements MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - At least 3 years of experience in financial management, including accounting, contracts management, federal grants management and reporting, budget development, and complex financial analyses - Demonstrated ability to manage technical budget development, including preparation, justification, and financial modeling - Ability to gather, interpret, and communicate financial data to both technical and non-technical audiences - Experience reviewing and approving contracts - Demonstrated multi-tasking and project management skills in a dynamic environment - Strong oral and written communication skills - Demonstrated problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must pass a thorough background investigation - Must reside in Washington state within a reasonable distance to the King County worksite - Must protect the privacy and security of protected health information per State and Federal Law - Must be proficient with Microsoft Office and web-based tools - Must adhere to OSHA/WISHA guidelines, including completing mandatory trainings on time and obtaining required immunizations - Must maintain regular and reliable attendance - Must be available for emergency response duties, which may include nights, weekends, and deployment to other locations SELECTION PROCESS The selection process may include the evaluation of application materials and supplemental questions, interviewing, and testing. HOW TO APPLY Applications must be submitted online via NEOGOV by 8/21/2026 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time. The following items are strictly required: 1. NEOGOV Job Application (must be thorough and complete) 2. Supplemental Questions 3. Resume 4. Cover Letter explaining your interest and qualifications Do not substitute the application with a resume or cover letter. Incomplete applications stating "see resume" will be rejected. Contact Salyse Duckworth at sduckworth@kingcounty.gov for accommodations or alternate formats. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: King County (Department of Public Health) - Location: Chinook Building, 401 5th Avenue, Seattle, WA (Hybrid work model) - Job Type: Career Service (Exec), Full-Time, Exempt - Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM - Bargaining Unit: Not represented by a labor union (Z3 : KC Personnel Guidelines)
ABOUT THE ROLE The County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency is seeking exceptionally qualified individuals for the position of HHSA Emergency Preparedness and Security Coordinator. This is an Unclassified Management position, with the actual job class being Group Program Manager. The role involves leading emergency preparedness, security coordination, and cross-functional project management within the Agency Executive Office. The County embraces a vision of a just, sustainable, and resilient future, valuing integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead or coordinate emergency preparedness and response activities, including continuity planning (COOP), site evacuation planning (SEP), or incident coordination. - Serve as the primary point-of-contact for security matters, coordinating with multiple internal and external partners. - Identify security vulnerabilities, collaborate with stakeholders to address them, and ensure follow-through on corrective actions. - Manage complex, cross-functional projects and support special assignments during emergency or high-priority operational needs. - Lead or support multidisciplinary projects or emergency activations, ensuring effective coordination and outcomes. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Three (3) years of experience demonstrating the ability to perform the essential functions of the classification, AND a bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. college or university (or certified foreign studies equivalency). - OR an equivalent combination of education and experience as stated above. - A master's or doctoral degree from an accredited U.S. college or university (or certified foreign studies equivalency) may substitute for up to one (1) year of the required experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Unclassified Service: Persons in this role do not accrue tenure and serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority. - Disaster Service Worker: Under California Government Code Sections 3100-3109, all public employees are designated as disaster service workers and must participate in assigned disaster service activities. - Blind Applicant Screening: Personally identifiable information (name, phone number, address, gender, age, race) will be hidden to ensure a fair and equitable selection process. - Preferred training in Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS), Incident Command System (ICS), or National Incident Management System (NIMS). SELECTION PROCESS - Applications undergo Blind Applicant Screening to remove bias. - Evaluation is based on the Work Experience section and Supplemental Questionnaire responses. - The most highly qualified candidates, based on evaluation results, will be referred for an interview. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an online application via the County of San Diego GovernmentJobs portal before the closing date. - Clearly detail experience meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section. - Attach a current resume in the ATTACHMENTS section (must include degrees held, employment history, dates of service, position titles, responsibilities, and positions supervised). Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application work history or supplemental questionnaire. - Attach a copy of your bachelor's and/or master's degree, transcripts, completion letter, or foreign studies equivalency certificate if using education to qualify. - Closing Date: August 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM Pacific. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Number: 26031807UHHSA - Location: County of San Diego, CA - Job Type: Regular - Full time - Department: Health and Human Services Agency - Division: Agency Executive Office - Opening Date: July 28, 2026 - Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions on a case-by-case basis.