E20 - Leading for Longevity: Keeping Crisis Teams Strong, Skilled and Inspired

Tuesday, April 28, 2026

2:15 PM - 3:15 PM MDT

Location: Bluebird 2E

Unrestricted Education Sponsor

As behavioral health crisis services expand nationwide, success depends on developing and retaining a skilled, resilient workforce. With annual turnover rates of 30–60%, crisis teams need leadership strategies that go beyond hiring to support long-term growth, professional identity, and sustainability.

This session offers a practical, research-informed roadmap for developing crisis responders from applicant to confident professional while reframing crisis work as a viable, respected career. Participants will learn how to bridge training to field readiness, foster continuous skill development, and strengthen retention, service quality, and team stability over time.

Learning Objectives:

Analyze the impact of turnover in crisis services and differentiate at least three research-based leadership strategies shown to improve staff retention and sustainability.
Implement practical tools, such as stay interview questions, resilience practices, and career pathway mapping—to enhance staff growth, engagement, and longevity.
Construct and deliver a concise, purpose-driven message that reframes crisis work as a sustainable and meaningful career path.

Disclosure(s):

Elan Javanfard, LMFT: No financial relationships to disclose

Travis J. Atkinson, MA-LPC: No financial relationships to disclose

Breakout Presenter(s)

Elan Javanfard, LMFT

Senior Director
Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services
Los Angeles, California

Disclosure(s): No financial relationships to disclose

Slides
Travis J. Atkinson, MA-LPC

Chief Experience Officer
TBD Solutions
Grand Rapids, Michigan

Disclosure(s): No financial relationships to disclose