YOUTH PEER ADVOCATE
: Job Details :

To act as the liaison between the RTF youth and ETTProvide weekly peer support group using a range of topics and strategiesProvide community -based/ in-home individualized peer support as assignedAssist with the development of family safety plansParticipate directly at Enhanced Treatment Team meetings as requiredInterpret 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 livingSupport residents during activities within the community and on campus, including leisure/wellness/ recreation activitiesCommunicate problems or potential problems to the Transition ManagerAttend Pre-placement meetings, Diagnostic Conference meetings, Comprehensive Treatment Plan Reviews and Discharge/ Aftercare Meetings as requested by Transition managerAttend in-service training sessions, conferences, and/or workshops as required by the position and/or authorized by the Transition Manager and/or Program DirectorParticipate in Monthly supervision with Transition Manager to support the development of Youth Peer AdvocatesAttend monthly Youth Peer Advocate Team meetings and site visits designated to unify Youth Peer AdvocatesWorks with the Enhanced Treatment Team in accessing community resources and supports for youthProvide youth with face to face and telephone support, information and communicate need for referrals to Enhanced Treatment Team as neededDevelop and facilitate youth advisory councils for youth on campusFacilitate youth support groups, providing a safe non-judgmental, youth-friendly andculturally competent environmentMaintain confidentiality of information in records of youth in program and; followand abide by all HIPAA laws and regulationsPeer Bridger - assist RTF youth with transitioning to community or lower levels of careAttend meetings and conferences when assigned representing the youth voice inMeetingsProvide 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 wellnessMaintains appropriate boundaries with youth servedPerform other duties as assignedQualifications18-28 years of age who has had first-hand experience with mental health services, special education services, or foster careHave 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 skillsA 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 historyHave a basic knowledge of support techniques, advocacy, active listening methods, and group facilitation, or be willing to attend related trainings