Mental Health Response Lead

JOB SUMMARY

The Mental Health Response Lead (MHRL) serves as the primary coordinator for post-mass shooting mental health response in a defined community. Working closely with the Office of Firearm Violence Prevention (OFVP), the MHRL leads a local response network, implements the Mental Health Navigation Model, and coordinates Family Assistance Centers. This position requires active community engagement, crisis response readiness, and the ability to lead cross-sector collaboration to support affected individuals and improve mental health outcomes.

JOB DUTIES

• Response Coordination & Collaboration
• Develop a local response plan per the DHS/DMH Blueprint.
• Be available 24/7 to respond during crisis events.
• Liaise with OFVP Conveners and participate in community group meetings.
• Maintain accurate records and timely incident reporting.
• Mental Health Response Network Leadership
• Build and maintain a Mental Health Response Network.
• Train all Network members in Psychological First Aid (PFA) and Skills for Psychological Recovery (SPR).
• Lead mobilization of the Network within 48 hours of a mass shooting.
• Address secondary trauma among responders through support plans and resiliency training.
• Family Assistance Center (FAC) Operations
• Identify potential FAC locations in advance.
• Manage setup and operations of FAC following incidents.
• Coordinate staff and materials and determine duration of FAC operation.
• Mental Health Education & Resource Distribution
• Develop culturally sensitive and accessible mental health materials.
• Engage the community via events and partnerships.
• Raise awareness on trauma, resilience, and mental health misinformation.
• Deliver trainings, such as Mental Health First Aid.
• Referral & Follow-up Coordination
• Use the Mental Health Navigation Model to coordinate outreach, follow-up, and service referrals.
• Track contacts and ensure sustained engagement with impacted individuals.
• Ensure documentation and follow-through on care referrals.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or related field.
• At least one year of direct crisis counseling experience.
• Strong preference for candidates with lived experience in gun violence and deep ties to the local community.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices and crisis intervention.
• Strong organizational, communication, problem-solving, and time management skills.
• Familiarity with community mental health systems and culturally appropriate care.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to travel locally to community events, FAC locations, and meetings.
• Must be able to work on-call and maintain flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Must be able to lift and transport outreach and event materials as needed.

EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS

This job description is to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included. It is intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employee’s ability to perform the duties as described. This job description is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned as deemed appropriate commensurate to the position. This document does not represent a contract of employment, and Friend Health - HRDI reserves the right to change this job description and /or assign tasks deemed as needed.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• Paid Time Off (PTO) & Holidays
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Occupational Risk for Exposure to TB:

There is an occupational risk for exposure to TB, as this position involves extensive community and patient contact. Employees in this role are required to comply with annual TB testing as part of workplace health and safety protocols. The only acceptable exceptions to this requirement are documented medical contraindications or religious objections. Employees who decline TB testing will be required to wear a mask when deemed necessary.

Friend Health – HRDI is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, marital or parental status, sexual orientation including gender identity, gender expression, military discharge status, physical or mental disability, or any other status or characteristic protected by law. In addition, Friend Health – HRDI provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws (including during the application or hiring process). Friend Health - HRDI supports the Pay Transparency Law as an equal opportunity employer.

Join Our Team

At Friend Health – HRDI, we are dedicated to supporting individuals and communities in times of greatest need. Join our mission-driven team to lead critical mental health interventions that make a lasting impact. If you're passionate about healing, advocacy, and building resilient communities, we encourage you to apply and be part of a team that responds with compassion, care, and commitment.

Education

• Bachelors or better in Social Work