Assistant Program Director, Residential Crisis Support

Careers In Nonprofits • New York City, NY

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Assistant Program Director will partner closely with the Program Director to oversee a peer-driven residential crisis support program in Manhattan. The program offers a short-term, peer-led residential alternative to psychiatric hospitalization, serving eight guests experiencing mental health or emotional crises in a welcoming, home-like setting. Guests receive 24-hour recovery-oriented support, including peer support, self-advocacy education, and opportunities to develop coping and wellness skills. Staff draw on lived experience to build trusting relationships and support guests’ recovery journeys. This is a full-time, permanent direct-hire opportunity, primarily on-site, with three remote days each month. The schedule is 40 hours per week, with Sunday through Thursday preferred. The fixed annual salary is $83,000.

The Assistant Program Director will supervise and develop approximately 14 Peer Support professionals, collaborate with program leadership and community partners, oversee guest services and program operations, and help maintain a supportive environment for guests and staff. The role includes participation in rotating 24/7 on-call coverage.

Requirements

• Current New York State LMSW, LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, or related qualifying license, or at minimum, an officially scheduled applicable licensing examination.
• Understanding of and commitment to the role of lived experience in mental health recovery.
• Empathy, active listening, and commitment to trauma-informed and harm reduction mental health support.
• Supervisory or management experience in mental health, social services, or a related field; two or more years is preferred.
• Collaborative, approachable leadership style that welcomes different perspectives, communicates directly, and empowers others.
• Comfort supporting individuals experiencing mental health crises, with strong problem-solving, critical-thinking, and de-escalation skills.

Nice To Haves

• Prior professional Peer Support experience.
• Two or more years of supervisory or management experience.
• Personal experience navigating mental health challenges or the mental health system.

Responsibilities

• Provide consistent supervision, mentorship, and professional development to approximately 14 Peer Support professionals, promoting accountability, teamwork, and staff well-being.
• Support staff in building authentic, trusting relationships with guests through lived experience, active listening, and trauma-informed, recovery-oriented practices.
• Partner with the Program Director to manage staffing, scheduling, facility needs, and daily operations of the eight-bed residential program.
• Oversee referrals, admissions, discharges, and waitlist management, ensuring guests receive individualized support and connections to community resources.
• Ensure timely documentation, accurate service records, Medicaid billing compliance, and adherence to applicable regulatory requirements.
• Help maintain a peaceful, welcoming residence where guests can build independence, practice recovery skills, and maintain community connections.
• Collaborate with staff, program leadership, and community partners to address challenges, strengthen services, and improve the guest experience.
• Participate in rotating 24/7 on-call coverage, providing guidance and support during urgent situations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager