(1) Direct care staff at a crisis residential center (CRC) must care for, supervise, and manage the behavior of children or youth in care.

(2) At least 50 percent of direct care staff at a CRC must have completed:

(a) A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; or

(b) At least two academic years' worth of credit hours from an accredited college or university and one year of full-time work experience at a group residential program for adolescents.

(3) Direct care staff at a CRC under subsection (2) of this section may substitute experience for educational requirements on a year-for-year basis.

(4) Direct care staff who do not meet the requirements detailed in subsection (2) of this section must have a high school diploma or equivalent credential, for example, a GED or HSEC and at least one of the following:

(a) Six months of full-time experience working with youth in a group setting; or

(b) One year of experience as a foster parent with placement of one or more children or youth in their 24-hour care.

(5) Direct care staff at a CRC under subsection (4) of this section may substitute two academic years' worth of credit hours from an accredited college or university for the required experience under subsection (4)(a) and (b) of this section.

(6) If applicable, direct care staff at a crisis residential center must meet additional duties and qualifications detailed in:

(a) Any professional accreditation requirements that apply to the agency; and

(b) Any written and signed agreement between the agency and any state governmental entity. If the requirements of this section conflict with the terms in a written and signed agreement, then the higher standard will apply.

(7)(a) A CRC licensed under this chapter that employees direct care staff persons must have and follow a written policy that describes the duties, responsibilities, professional qualifications, and safety requirements for direct care staff persons.

(b) A policy under this section must be reviewed and approved by the department:

(i) After the effective date of this subsection but before any newly hired direct care staff person provides services directly to children or youth on behalf of the facility; or

(ii) Prior to the agency renewing their license.

PDFWAC 110-145-1450

What are the duties and additional qualifications for crisis residential center direct care staff?