Youth Peer Advocate

Greater Mental Health of New York•Valley Cottage, NY

17h

About The Position

The Youth Peer Advocate (YPA) provides formal and informal services and supports to youth experiencing social, medical, emotional, developmental, substance use, or behavioral challenges at home, school, in placement, or in the community. The role helps youth engage and participate actively in treatment planning and supports the ongoing implementation and reinforcement of skills. Services are delivered using trauma-informed, culturally and linguistically competent practices, with a positive youth development, resiliency, and recovery focus. The YPA promotes skills for coping with and managing psychiatric symptoms, facilitates the use of natural and community supports and resources, and promotes wellness through modeling. The role also helps youth gain or regain the ability to make independent choices and take a proactive role in their treatment. The position is based in Rockland, New York, and is mobile.

Requirements

High school diploma, high school equivalency, or a State Education Commencement Credential (SACC or CDOS).
Be 18 to 29 years old and self-identify as a consumer of mental health services, the juvenile justice system, substance use services, special education services, or foster care.
Be eligible for the Youth Peer Advocate Provisional Credential, with the expectation of obtaining the full credential within 24 months of commencing employment.
Maintain a Youth Peer Advocate Professional Credential.
Strong computer knowledge, including typing, communication tools, scheduling tools, and web browsers.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database management systems.
Fluency in English in reading, writing, and speaking.
Clear and maintain applicable regulatory clearances.
Be legally eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Be reliable, able to work independently, and understand the importance of confidentiality.
Have a valid driver’s license and a driving record satisfactory to the insurance carrier.
Maintain current New York State Defensive Driving certification.
Strong engagement skills and demonstrated ability to relate well to children, youth, and young adults.
Knowledge of signs of psychiatric crises and de-escalation techniques.

Responsibilities

Engage youth in strategies to work toward identified goals, including strengthening problem-solving skills, mentoring, exploring community resources, and providing life-skills support.
Communicate regularly with the child’s team to ensure continuity of care.
Document client progress and maintain a permanent record of client activity according to established methods and procedures.
Practice using a person-centered, trauma-informed philosophy aligned with GMH values.
Maintain appropriate professional standards.
Work a flexible schedule as required by the nature of the program.
Perform other designated or related duties.
Meet productivity expectations and professional development and training expectations.
Adhere to the Agency Driver Policy when using agency vehicles.

Benefits

403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution after one year of service.
Flexible work arrangements, including hybrid options, subject to business needs.
Medical insurance.
Dental insurance.
Vision insurance.
Life insurance.
15 days of paid time off per year.
12 days of paid sick time per year.
11 employer-paid holidays per year.
Professional development, opportunities for advancement, training programs, and support for certifications and continuing education.
Free employee assistance program services.
Employee discounts on travel, hotels, movie tickets, theme parks, services, electronics, automobiles, and shopping.
Gym reimbursement through the employer’s medical insurance carrier.
Qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).