Patient Rights Advocate Level 2 (Sacramento)

Sustainable Wellness Solutions•Sacramento, CA

11d•$25 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

The Patients’ Rights Advocate II represents the expressed interests of behavioral health clients in Sacramento County through rights advocacy, complaint investigation, facility monitoring, and hearing representation. As an advanced-level advocate, the PRA II independently manages complex or sensitive matters, applies sound judgment, and serves as a peer resource to less-experienced advocates. This is a non-supervisory position.

Requirements

Minimum of two years of experience in patients’ rights advocacy, peer advocacy, behavioral health, legal support, or related client services.
Working knowledge of California patients’ rights protections, LPS processes, the W&I Code, and Title 9 CCR, with demonstrated ability to independently manage complex hearings and investigations.
Knowledge of and commitment to self-help philosophy, peer-driven advocacy values, and client-directed representation.
Strong oral and written communication skills and the ability to represent clients in formal hearings.
Ability to exercise sound judgment, recognize when escalation is required, manage conflict, and remain professional in acute settings.
Ability to provide respectful peer guidance without assuming supervisory authority.
Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and basic data systems.
Willingness to travel throughout Sacramento County and conduct fieldwork.
Valid California driver’s license, proof of automobile insurance, and an acceptable driving record.
Successful completion of a DOJ background check.

Nice To Haves

Lived experience as a consumer of mental health services or an immediate family member of a consumer.
California patients’ rights experience involving formal hearings, complex investigations, peer mentoring, onboarding, or training.
Bilingual skills relevant to Sacramento County communities.

Responsibilities

Represent clients expressed wishes at Certification Review hearings, Riese capacity hearings, and other assigned proceedings under the California Welfare and Institutions Code.
Independently prepare for and manage complex, sensitive, or high-conflict hearings and advocacy matters in accordance with legal, contractual, and organizational requirements.
Receive and investigate complaints regarding abuse, unreasonable denial, or punitive withholding of rights under W&I Code section 5325 and Title 9 CCR. Begin investigations as soon as possible and within two working days.
Seek timely complaint resolution and escalate matters that remain unresolved within five working days. Elevate legal uncertainty, recurring facility barriers, or potential compliance concerns to the PRA Lead, Program Director, or California Office of Patients’ Rights, as required.
Monitor designated facilities for compliance with patient rights notification and posting requirements. Document and report violations through established channels.
Provide training and education to facility staff and community partners regarding patients’ rights and mental health law, as requested.
Provide informal guidance, shadowing, onboarding, and training support to PRA I staff without assigning work or assuming supervisory authority.
Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential case documentation and timekeeping. Review and respond to incoming calls and voicemails.
Identify recurring advocacy barriers, complaint trends, and potential process improvements and report them to program leadership.
Maintain professional public relations and represent SWS at community meetings as directed.
Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of the classification.