Peer Specialist- Clinical Rapid Response

Urban Pathways, Inc. • New York, NY

26d

About The Position

Since 1975, Urban Pathways has engaged New York City’s most vulnerable residents, people on the streets or in areas unfit for human habitation, “lighting the path home, one person at a time.” Urban Pathways is a catalyst for transformative change in the lives of unhoused adults, empowering them to discover their inherent strengths and abilities. We provide essential support and foster an environment where individuals can redefine their narratives and become their best selves. Reporting to the Program Coordinator, the Peer Specialist for the Clinical Rapid Response Team (CRRT) will play a critical role in providing immediate support and assistance to individuals experiencing health crises, and will assist in preventing future crises, leveraging lived experience to build trust, empathy, and connection, and guiding them toward resources that promote healing, recovery, and well-being. The Peer Specialist will be an integral part of an interdisciplinary team, supporting individuals through the crisis intervention process and fostering a culture of person-centered and strength-based care. This is a new team, and the peer specialist will play a critical role in skill acquisition for the high acuity clients.

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Completion of Peer Advocacy/Specialist Training Program Required.
• Experience using behavioral health services (mental health, co-occurring substance use treatment) as a client.
• Ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule including evenings.
• Good computer skills and/or ability to learn computer programs including Microsoft Office (i.e., Word, Outlook, Excel, etc.) and data programs such as AWARDS.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team.
• Ability to do field work, program visits, client escorts, and make use of public transportation.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, push, pull, lift (up to 25 lbs.), type, write, read, speak, see, and hear.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with individuals with a history of homelessness, mental illness, substance use and chronic medical conditions, preferred
• Ability to speak foreign languages is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provides support and resources/referrals for individuals being served to meet health objectives, including but not limited to: 1. Health, mental health treatment, and substance use services 2. Non-medical wellness services (yoga, meditation, exercise, etc.) 3. Social and community integration activities
• Provides guidance, support, and side-by-side skills modeling to people in our care on an on-going basis.
• Responds to crises throughout the agency to help avert hospitalizations. When that level of care is necessary, Peers will ensure a person is admitted and follow up care is in place prior to discharge.
• Helps create preventative and wellness plans that may include goals, objectives, and interventions.
• Promotes client self-advocacy skills.
• Organizes and facilitates individual and group wellness activities including workshops, groups, and social activities for our high acuity clients
• Completes incident reports and distributes related notices within 24 hours.
• Maintains and submits all necessary documentation and reports accurately in a timely manner and as required by Urban Pathways, regulatory and funding agency policies, and procedures including but not limited to:
• Enters progress notes after meeting with individuals under our care within 48 hours and/or in compliance with Urban Pathways and funding agency requirements.
• Updates information in electronic health records, as required.
• Documents incidents and distributes related notices within 24 hours when the Peer Specialist has witnessed the incident.
• Submits all required paperwork for supervisor approval within 48 hours.
• Files paperwork in electronic charts (once approved/signed by supervisor), as required by program (no more than 48 hours).
• Develops and maintains relationships with community services and resources with particular emphasis on substance/alcohol use programs, health and mental health programs, and benefits.
• Attends and participates in external meetings with stakeholders
• Communicates verbally, and in writing in a professional manner.
• Attends staff meetings, trainings, and supervisory sessions, as required.
• Responds to all communications including telephone, email, and other oral and written inquiries in a timely manner.
• Performs all other duties as assigned and as required.

Benefits

• Healthcare Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to keep you and your family in good health.
• Retirement Savings: A 403(b) plan and a 401(a) with employer annual contribution to help you plan for a secure financial future.
• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Work-life balance is important to us, and we offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate your needs.
• Wellness Programs: Employee wellness programs, including fitness initiatives and mental health support.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal or work-related issues.
• Employee Recognition: Recognition programs to celebrate and reward outstanding contributions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees