About this role
To act as the liaison between the RTF youth and ETT * Provide weekly peer support group using a range of topics and strategies * Provide community -based/ in-home individualized peer support as assigned * Assist with the development of family safety plans * Participate directly at Enhanced Treatment Team meetings as required * Interpret and implement the RTF program's philosophy, policies, routines, and procedures, which effect group living and consumer transition in a manner consistent with their intent. * Assist new residents in the transition and acclimation to group living * Support residents during activities within the community and on campus, including leisure/wellness/ recreation activities * Communicate problems or potential problems to the Transition Manager * Attend Pre-placement meetings, Diagnostic Conference meetings, Comprehensive Treatment Plan Reviews and Discharge/ Aftercare Meetings as requested by Transition manager * Attend in-service training sessions, conferences, and/or workshops as required by the position and/or authorized by the Transition Manager and/or Program Director * Participate in Monthly supervision with Transition Manager to support the development of Youth Peer Advocates * Attend monthly Youth Peer Advocate Team meetings and site visits designated to unify Youth Peer Advocates * Works with the Enhanced Treatment Team in accessing community resources and supports for youth * Provide youth with face to face and telephone support, information and communicate need for referrals to Enhanced Treatment Team as needed * Develop and facilitate youth advisory councils for youth on campus * Facilitate youth support groups, providing a safe non‐judgmental, youth‐friendly and culturally competent environment * Maintain confidentiality of information in records of youth in program and; follow and abide by all HIPAA laws and regulations * Peer Bridger ‐ assist RTF youth with transitioning to community or lower levels of care * Attend meetings and conferences when assigned representing the youth voice in Meetings * Provide support and advocacy to recovering RTF youth to stay in their homes and communities, with the goal of avoiding further hospitalization or institutionalized care. * Be able to use lived experience with a mental illness and/or co-occurring disorder to assist in supporting youth in their resiliency/recovery and wellness * Maintains appropriate boundaries with youth served * Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications * 18-28 years of age who has had first-hand experience with mental health services, special education services, or foster care * Have a high school diploma, high school equivalency, or NYS State Education Commencement Credential (e.g. SACC or CDOS) * New York State Youth Peer Advocate Credential (YPA) * Good verbal and written communication skills * A Youth Peer Advocate should be in the recovery phase of their own treatment, and demonstrate the ability to reflect thoughtfully about their diagnosis, experiences, and personal history * Have a basic knowledge of support techniques, advocacy, active listening methods, and group facilitation, or be willing to attend related trainings