Program Manager I - Peer Services

The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD (“The HARRIS CENTER”) is looking for Program Manager I (Peer Services) to join our team. The Peer Services Program Manager 1 performs duties related to the day-to-day operations of Peers/Family Partners as they provide support to consumers. This includes developing and maintaining peer programs, peer led education groups, and other peer-to-peer initiatives that build resiliency and develop and enhance consumer skills across the outpatient clinics. Assists Peer Services Program Manager 2 in developing and maintaining training materials for new and existing Peer/Family Partner staff. Must have at least 12 months treatment history for one of the severe and persistent mental illnesses.

What will you do:

• Develops, coordinates and implements the provision of peer group meetings and peer to peer discussion groups that will enhance consumer’s ability to better manage their needs.
• Coordinates monthly Peer/Family Partner meetings as well as quarterly Community Forums.
• Works collaboratively with Peer Services Program Manager 2 to ensure expansion of Prosumer services across the outpatient clinics.
• Works collaboratively with trainers and clinical staff to enhance the overall quality of the clinical care and incorporate peer groups into the clinical care of the consumers.
• Ensures all services provided by Peers/Family Partners meet eligibility criteria and are authorized in accordance with agency and regulatory guidelines by running monthly service reports.
• Works collaboratively with management staff across the agency to support peer implementation at the unit.
• Provides communication to all staff on ongoing efforts to develop peer to peer programs and consumer led education groups, and coordinates access to these groups through all providers.
• Performs related work as assigned. Adapts to changing work requirements.
• Demonstrates ethical conduct in all clinical and professional activities
• Complies with agency policies and procedures accrediting/regulatory bodies and performance contract documentation requirements.

What qualifications you will need:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling or related behavioral field required.
• -Active Peer Specialist Certification (CPS) or Certified Family Partner Certification

Experience:

• At least (1) year working as a Certified Peer Specialist or Certified Family Partner
• Must have at least 12 months treatment history for one of the severe and persistent mental illnesses, and be willing to provide consent for confirmation of current or history of mental illness.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Thorough understanding of mental illness; common signs & symptoms, and able to identify difficulties with coping in community settings.
• Leadership and communication skills are necessary.
• Able to work collaboratively with others in a teamwork environment.
• Effective time management and organizational skills.
• Must have knowledge of Peer/Family Partner services and recovery-oriented model.

What we have to offer:

The Harris Center not only offers a competitive salary but also a suite of excellent benefits designed to enrich your life both professionally and personally. Imagine a future with a robust retirement plan complemented by our generous company matching – a testament to our investment in your long-term financial well-being. Experience the unique advantage of our prior service credit, accelerating your journey towards a more substantial Paid Time Off accrual, empowering you to enjoy well-deserved breaks.

Enjoy Cell Phone Discounts, exclusive entertainment deals through Tickets at Work, and a free Headspace subscription for mental wellness. Additionally, our Employee Assistance Program supports your overall well-being.

Take advantage of significant financial relief through student loan forgiveness as a valued member of The Harris Center team. As a qualifying entity, our employees are eligible for various student loan forgiveness programs, designed to alleviate the financial burdens associated with higher education.

What else you should know:

This posting is associated with position #2123-82902.

About us:

The HARRIS CENTER is the state-designated Local Mental Health Authority and Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability (IDD) Authority serving Harris County, Texas. As the largest behavioral and developmental disability care center in Texas, The Harris Center provided care to over 96,000 people in fiscal year 2023!

As part of its mission to transform the lives of people with behavioral health and IDD needs in the third largest county in the United States, The HARRIS CENTER provides a full continuum of services at 86 different sites across Harris County. In addition, services are provided in more than 40 different languages as well as sign language to better serve what is one of the most diverse and multi-cultural communities in the nation.

By utilizing the unique expertise of its more than 2,500 employees, The Harris Center is committed to meeting the behavioral health and IDD needs of Harris County residents and giving them hope to live to their fullest potential.