In order to receive benefits, employees are required to work at least twenty hours per week. Without benefits, employees may work as little as six to eight hours per week. The hours worked are typically evenings and weekends. Scheduling can be individualized to the need of the employee. No prior experience is needed.
Volunteers undergo twenty hours of counselor training.
Training sessions are offered twice a year. Volunteers are asked to work one shift twice a month and no more than on shift once a week. Volunteers are also asked to be committed to work for at least six months in order to benefit training. Volunteers receive twenty hours of classroom training before handling calls. They are then required to sit in on four shifts with an experienced listener.