Peer Family Advocate

University of Rochester • City of Rochester, NY

91d • $18 - $23

About The Position

The University of Rochester is seeking a dedicated individual to work with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings under the direction of clinical staff. This position focuses on providing services that empower individuals receiving substance use disorder (SUD) and/or co-occurring disorder (COD) services to regain personal control over their lives and recovery processes. The role involves acting as a peer model for patients, helping them engage in recovery-oriented activities and integrate into the community. The position reports directly to the Clinical Supervisor of Outreach services.

Requirements

• Graduation from High School or GED required.
• Direct personal experience overcoming challenges and recovering from substance use disorder required.
• Two years of experience as a Peer Advocate preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of coping skills for dealing with symptoms of SUD/COD.
• Basic knowledge of addiction self-help techniques and self-help group process.
• Basic knowledge of the goals and objectives of the SUD recovery movement.
• Basic knowledge of the SUD service delivery system and patients’ rights.
• Basic knowledge of generic human services delivery systems and entitlement programs.
• Ability to verbally engage and empathize with patients based on common experiences.
• Ability to be patient, encouraging, and supportive.
• Ability to teach skills to individuals and small groups.
• Ability to facilitate group meetings.
• Ability to assertively advocate for patients and negotiate with service providers.

Responsibilities

• Assist patients in identifying and practicing individualized coping skills to deal with their SUD/COD symptoms.
• Build rapport and trust with patients, interacting as a peer and sharing common experiences.
• Facilitate patients' exploration and understanding of their SUD/COD symptoms.
• Help patients identify their individual warning signs of relapse and develop specific coping strategies.
• Assist patients in developing a crisis plan and crisis management skills.
• Convene and facilitate self-help groups and activities.
• Teach self-help techniques and self-help group process skills to patients.
• Facilitate the establishment of peer support networks and social support systems.
• Help patients develop assertiveness and communication skills for active participation in treatment planning.
• Assist patients in carrying out tasks defined in their treatment plans.
• Teach daily living skills relevant to the individual's recovery goals.
• Initiate outreach engagement in the community with established patients.
• Teach patients how to negotiate bureaucracies and service systems.
• Provide entitlement information and teach patients self-advocacy skills.
• Assist patients in identifying and exercising their rights.
• Provide education and training on patient issues to mental health and human services providers.
• Support the completion of satisfaction surveys by patients and families.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $18.00 - $23.81 per hour.
• Full-time employment with a scheduled weekly hours of 40.
• Comprehensive health benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees