Peer Advocate - FlexStaff

Northwell • Village of Great Neck, NY

9d

About The Position

The Peer Advocate engages with and provides peer support to behavioral health consumers experiencing psychosis. Drawing on personal experience with mental health issues, the Peer Advocate serves as a role model in maximizing wellness and independence. The role collaborates with clinical and non-clinical team members to ensure members experience a culture of support as part of their treatment. Support may include travel to members’ homes as required.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least one year of active participation in mental health self-help activities, peer support or peer advocacy programs, participant-run organizations, or similar experiences.
• State certification as a Peer Specialist, or obtain certification within 18 months of hire.
• Successful completion of the site training program within the normal probationary period.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Reliable access to transportation and a telephone.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated support skills and enthusiasm for assisting medically underserved populations.
• Bilingual ability.

Responsibilities

• Provide peer support to behavioral health consumers, including orientation to programs, service providers, and community resources.
• Encourage members, family members, and caregivers to use program resources to maximize wellness and independence.
• Conduct outreach to members who miss appointments to reinforce engagement.
• Assist members with tasks defined in their treatment plans.
• Attend and participate in appointments and meetings to support and advocate for members, as required.
• Understand and address related cultural attitudes and practices.
• Report members’ progress in community settings to clinical team members and refer appropriate questions and issues to clinical and non-clinical team members.
• Travel to members’ homes to provide peer-level support, as required.
• Perform related duties as required.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED