Peer Counselor I

Ellis Medicine • Schenectady, NY

412d • $31,366 - $45,490

About The Position

The Peer Counselor I role at Ellis Medicine involves providing essential support to patients through advocacy, mentoring, and compassionate listening. The position focuses on emotional support, validation, and encouragement, utilizing personal experiences to foster hope and recovery among individuals facing mental health challenges.

Requirements

• Personal experience with mental health and a basic understanding of various mental health diagnoses.
• High School diploma or GED preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide compassionate listening to individuals seeking crisis service in various settings including the emergency department and inpatient psychiatric units.
• Remain accessible to the assigned mental health service area, ensuring presence is known unless engaged in other necessary functions.
• Use self-disclosure consciously for the benefit of patients, sharing relevant personal information selectively to convey understanding and hope.
• Engage with a diverse population respectfully and without judgment or criticism.
• Participate actively as part of the team, sharing information and mutual support while collaborating positively with co-workers.
• Establish and maintain healthy, professional, and HIPAA compliant boundaries in relationships with patients and staff.
• Utilize opportunities for personal and professional growth through training and participation in team meetings.
• Avoid participation in any interactions involving physical or chemical force or restraint, supporting other patients in remaining calm during such incidents.
• Adhere to all Ellis policies and expectations, including dress code and health office mandates.

Benefits

• Salary range of $15.08-21.87 per hour based on experience, skills, and education.

What This Job Offers

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