About brighthush

brighthush is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that stands at the forefront of behavioral health crisis response. With a legacy of delivering compassionate, evidence‑based care to individuals in distress, brighthush has become the only comprehensive crisis response system in the Baltimore region and a trusted partner for communities across the United States. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to provide immediate, life‑saving support to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis, regardless of where they are or what language they speak.

We operate 24/7, offering a suite of services that includes in‑person crisis stabilization, tele‑health counseling, and a robust digital platform that connects people to the help they need in real time. Our team is composed of dedicated professionals who bring empathy, expertise, and a deep commitment to equity and inclusion. At brighthush, we believe that every voice matters, and we empower our staff to make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.

Why Join brighthush?

• Impactful Work: Every message you respond to could be the difference between a crisis escalating and a life being saved.
• Remote Flexibility: Work from the comfort of your own private workspace while staying connected to a vibrant, collaborative team.
• Professional Growth: Access to ongoing training, certifications, and career advancement pathways within the behavioral health field.
• Competitive Compensation: A salary range that reflects your expertise and dedication.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Generous paid time off, tuition reimbursement, retirement plans, and more.

Key Responsibilities

As a National Text & Chat Counselor, you will serve as the first line of support for individuals seeking help through our digital channels. Your day will involve:

• Real‑Time Communication: Respond promptly to incoming text and chat messages from clients experiencing a crisis, ensuring a calm, supportive, and professional tone.
• Risk Assessment: Conduct thorough, evidence‑based risk evaluations to determine the level of urgency and appropriate intervention.
• Documentation & Reporting: Accurately record all interactions in our secure electronic health record system, maintaining HIPAA compliance and ensuring data integrity.
• Collaboration: Work closely with multidisciplinary teams—including crisis medics, social workers, and case managers—to coordinate care and facilitate seamless transitions to in‑person services when necessary.
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in regular debriefings, training sessions, and quality assurance reviews to refine your skills and contribute to organizational best practices.

Essential Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent. A bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field is a plus.
• Typing & Communication: Exceptional typing speed (minimum 45 WPM) and strong written communication skills to convey empathy and clarity in high‑pressure situations.
• Crisis De‑Escalation: Demonstrated ability to remain calm, assess risk, and de‑escalate tense conversations with individuals in distress.
• Technology Proficiency: Comfortable using laptops, headsets, and secure messaging platforms. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems is advantageous.
• HIPAA & Confidentiality: Commitment to maintaining strict confidentiality and adhering to all privacy regulations.
• Remote Work Setup: Reliable high‑speed internet connection and a private, quiet workspace that meets our security standards.
• Language: Fluency in English is required; additional language skills are a strong asset.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a crisis counseling or behavioral health setting, even if volunteer or part‑time.
• Training in suicide risk assessment, trauma‑informed care, or related certifications.
• Knowledge of mental health legislation and community resources in Pennsylvania and the broader Mid‑Atlantic region.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple concurrent conversations without compromising quality.

Skills & Competencies

• Empathy & Active Listening: Ability to connect with clients on a human level, validating their feelings and concerns.
• Critical Thinking: Rapid assessment of complex situations to determine appropriate interventions.
• Adaptability: Thrive in a fast‑paced environment where priorities can shift instantly.
• Team Collaboration: Work effectively with cross‑functional teams, sharing insights and coordinating care.
• Self‑Care & Resilience: Maintain personal well‑being while supporting others, with access to counseling resources and peer support.

Career Growth & Learning Opportunities

At brighthush, we view every team member as a lifelong learner. Your career path can evolve in several exciting directions:

• Clinical Advancement: Transition into a clinical counselor role, specializing in trauma, substance use, or adolescent mental health.
• Leadership Development: Pursue supervisory or managerial positions overseeing crisis response teams.
• Specialized Training: Earn certifications in suicide prevention, crisis intervention, or tele‑health counseling through our partnership with accredited institutions.
• Research & Innovation: Contribute to research projects that shape the future of digital crisis care and inform policy.

Work Environment & Culture

brighthush fosters a culture of compassion, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Our remote model is supported by:

• Regular virtual team huddles and social events to build camaraderie.
• Open communication channels with leadership, ensuring your voice is heard.
• A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, reflected in our hiring practices, training, and community outreach.
• Flexible scheduling options that respect work‑life balance while meeting the demands of a 24/7 crisis response system.

Compensation & Benefits

We offer a competitive salary range of USD 45,760 – 53,040 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition, you will receive:

• Generous Paid Time Off: Accumulate vacation, sick leave, and personal days to recharge.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Support for continuing education and professional development.
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with employer match to secure your financial future.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with mental health resources.
• Technology Stipend: Reimbursement for necessary equipment and internet upgrades.
• Access to a robust employee assistance program (EAP) and peer support groups.

How to Apply

If you are ready to make a real difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health crises, we encourage you to apply today. Join brighthush and become part of a dedicated team that values compassion, innovation, and professional growth.

Click the link below to submit your application and take the first step toward a rewarding career in crisis counseling.