First Call For Help Crisis Line

Crisis Telephonists answer all calls that come in at First Call for Help. They are expected to provide supportive listening, information and referral resources, crisis intervention, and when needed, link consumers to professional staff.

Approximately 30 hours of training is provided to all telephonists prior to them answering the crisis line. Telephonists will be trained to operate all phone and computer equipment used on the job, as well as skills in supportive listening, referral resources, suicide assessment and crisis de-escalation. While on the job, telephonists will also learn about the mental health system and how it works in our community.