General Description

The LOSS Team Coordinator works under the leadership of the Director of Crisis Services and oversees calls, creates the schedules, provides referrals and resources, and keeps statistics for the Denton County MHMR Center LOSS Team.

The LOSS Team Coordinator provides quality care to individuals that have recently experienced a suicide death. Coordinate volunteers to respond to on-scene and delayed calls. Develops relationships with clients, police municipalities and volunteers. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. This position is contingent on available funding from fundraising and grants.

Education, Training, and Experience

  Education: Bachelor's degree in the human services field is required. 

  Experience: Prefer 6 months experience in mental health field. Prefer experience with suicide loss.

•  Required qualifications: Must qualify as a QMHP (Qualified Mental Health Professional), which includes a minimum of 30 college hours in human services courses. 

Registration, Certification, Licensure, and Other Qualifications

• Must have and maintain a background and criminal history free from any disqualifying offenses as outlined by the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) and the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and automobile insurance.

o  Individuals with an out of state driver's license must be able to obtain a driver's license in the state of Texas within thirty (30) days.

•  Successful completion of all position-specific training within thirty (30) days of employment is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

•   Knowledge of suicide statistics, risk factors, and LOSS Teams
•   Ability to provide patient care, to administer first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), to conduct PMAB and to communicate effectively.
•   Understanding and practice of Trauma Informed Care principles.
•  Ability to display regular and reliable (in-person, if required) attendance.

Essential Duties

The following list outlines key responsibilities for the position; however, it is not exhaustive and does not encompass all responsibilities. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.

1.  Essential Function: Outreach and Support for LOSS Survivors

o  Coordinate volunteers to take LOSS calls both delayed and on scene. Ensure follow up with all LOSS calls within 14 days of initial call.

o  Build rapport with local police departments. Lead/Coordinate fundraising efforts for LOSS team including but not limited to annual Race for Hope.

o  Be aware of resources and able to share appropriate resources for suicide grief, suicide prevention, and other related topics. Ensure enough resources on hand for volunteers to use/inventory and order resources as needed.

o  Supports individuals experiencing a crisis by promptly connecting them with appropriate Center programs, such as the Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT), Psychiatric Triage, Crisis Prevention services, and/or other applicable resources. Ensures seamless coordination to facilitate timely intervention.

o  Lead volunteer team meetings. Provides courteous, professional services at all times.

o  Facilitates connecting survivors with appropriate mental health resources and ensuring access to compassionate, professional counseling. Or provides pro bono counseling services directly to suicide survivors to address grief and trauma.

2.  Essential Function: Administrative

o  Monitor and update all statistical information regarding LOSS team including number and result of calls. Ensure appropriate debriefing after all calls.

o  Contact supervisor or designated back-up for clarifications of procedures or clinical assistance as needed.Work together with Administrator of Crisis services to update policies as needed.

3.  Participates in the Center's Zero Suicide Initiative.

o  Remains with individuals, when deemed safe, to provide support and maintain a calm environment until specialized crisis staff or emergency personnel arrive to take over intervention efforts. Adheres to safety protocols to prevent escalation of the crisis situation.

o  Participates in debriefing sessions with the immediate supervisor or designated staff following a crisis event. Collaborates with the team to review the incident, identify lessons learned, and ensure all HHSC guidelines and Center policies are followed.

4.  Provides emergency intervention when necessary according to Department of Human Services (DHS) and Center rules and procedures.

o  Provides verbal and physical Prevention Management of Aggressive Behavior (PMAB) intervention correctly when necessary.

o  Provides Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) in an emergency until other medical aid arrives.

o  Provides emergency and non-emergency first aid until professional medical aid arrives or as directed by licensed medical professional.

o  Maintains all emergency intervention training according to Denton County MHMR Center (DCMHMR) policies and procedures.