Peer Counselor

Project Renewal•New York, NY

20h•Onsite

About The Position

The Support and Connection Center (Center) provides 24/7 short stay, engagement, stabilization and treatment services for adults with mental health and/or substance use issues referred directly by NYPD as an alternative to the traditional police responses of arrest, summons, or transport to an emergency room. Guests are referred to the Center when their infractions are non-violent and/or low-level offenses such as loitering, trespass, public inebriation, and disorderly conduct. The goal of the Center is to help guests begin to identify and modify the behaviors that result in repeated police contact. An OASAS licensed outpatient clinic, located on site, provides services to guests who are eligible. The maximum length of stay is 5 days.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED
NYS Certified Peer Specialist or Certified Recovery Peer Advocate
At least two (2) years working in the field of peer advocacy
An ability to work independently and to adjust one’s schedules to accommodate the needs of the guests
Experience working directly with people from diverse racial, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds
An ability to interface with guests as well as all levels of staff and providers
Excellent oral, writing and listening skills
Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite

Nice To Haves

Lived experience as a consumer of behavioral health services is preferred
Bilingual skills a plus

Responsibilities

Assumes a lead role in guest engagement activities
Collaborates with staff to develop an environment conducive to recovery
Provides recovery-based services including WRAP
Promotes problem-solving and decision-making skills development, including identifying positive supports and activities
Accompanies guests to appointments as needed
Acts as an advocate and support guests' self-advocacy
Models effective coping skills
Facilitates guest engagement with community-based recovery and support services
Provide support in case management responsibilities
Performs other duties as assigned by supervisory staff