Bilingual Peer Behavior Interventionist

NAMI San Diego•El Centro, CA

29d•Hybrid

About The Position

Our Peer Behavior Interventionists will support a program for which NAMI San Diego & Imperial Counties is collaborating with the San Diego Regional Center in Imperial Valley. The "Transition Age Youth Mental Health Program" supports individuals ages 14-22 who are not effectively accessing mental health services at school districts. Specifically, With the support of our Program Manager and Clinician, our Peer Behavior Interventionists connect individuals to needed mental health services; provide strategies to change/reduce behaviors that are causing them challenges in school; accompany youth and families to IEP meetings; conduct outreach activities and trainings with schools and the community.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a human services field of study (such as, psychology, social work, child development, etc.) OR Bachelor's degree in a different field of study and at least 3 years of experience supporting individuals living with intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD).
At least one year of experience supporting individuals living with intellectual/developmental disabilities (includes work experience, as well as experience supporting a loved one)
In-depth knowledge of Imperial County's services, resources, and culture.
Bilingual (English/Spanish).
Exceptional interpersonal skills, positivity, attention to detail, flexibility, and enjoy working in an ever-changing environment.
Excellent planning, organizing, analyzing, problem solving, time management and coordinating skills.
Able to work with minimal direction and supervision.
Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality.
Strong positive viewpoint towards individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health challenges, and history of substance use, and their families.
Natural ability to build and maintain relationships and find common ground with diverse stakeholders.
Ability to get along and work effectively with others.
Able to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
Regular, predictable attendance is required.
Intermediate knowledge of computer software (Microsoft Office, Word, Excel), email and web navigation.
Must be willing and able to drive personal car,
Possess valid California Driver's License and comprehensive automobile insurance as required by law.
Must have a satisfactory driving record.

Nice To Haves

Personal lived experience or with a family member or loved one with developmental disabilities and/or behavioral health challenges preferred
Completion of Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Training is preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct screening assessments to determine eligibility into our programs, as well as questionnaires and assessments that help identify underlying mental health, substance use concerns and suicidality.
Complete assessments to determine client's needs, develop and provide a written plan for supporting the individuals, in which you highlight needs, how these will be addressed.
Provide peer support.
Connect individuals and their families with mental health, substance use, and education resources.
Maintain contact and meet regularly with clients.
Support individuals with applying for needed benefits.
Provide behavior strategies to clients and their families.
Complete follow up assessments to determine client's progress towards goals; document findings and update the client's plan.
Document services, intakes, visits, and submit to Program Manager and Clinician within three business days.
Communicate and collaborate with staff from San Diego Regional Center, client's family members and school staff.
Participate in IEP meetings, meetings with San Diego Regional Center, and various other meetings.
Facilitate/co-facilitate trainings for Providers and Family Members on topics related to dual diagnosis (IDD with co-occurring behavioral health condition.)
Builds and maintains relationships and conducts outreach activities with the community as well as providers/staff at: school systems, mental health and substance use treatment/programs, jails, courts, etc. This may include giving formal presentations and trainings to large groups of individuals.
Provide culturally and linguistically appropriate services.
Works collaboratively in a teamwork style with demonstrated ability to relate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
Other duties as assigned.