Wellness Advocate

JOB SUMMARY: The Wellness Advocate provides support and advocacy to individuals/clients of the Sunrise Wellness Center (SWC). The SWC is a peer-run program, providing support groups and social activities to members of the community which promote positive mental health, wellness, and recovery.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Plan and implement daily support groups and activities
• Research and compile information related to wellness and mental health resources for group/community programming
• Support and advocate for clients in their mental health journey, individually and in groups
• Link community interests and individual needs
• Model healthy living as a peer with mental health experience, sharing techniques/skills that demonstrate wellness and recovery
• Treat all clients with dignity and respect
• Maintain professional boundaries with clients
• Provide clients’ assistance with setting goals
• Assist clients with accessing resources and services in the community when needed
• Communicate and interact with community agencies to coordinate services/referrals for clients
• Complete documentation of client services and progress
• Maintain accurate records in the HER (electronic health record)
• Follow SWC program guidelines and agency policies and procedures
• Demonstrate teamwork among co-workers
• Flexibility with work schedule in the case of call-ins or scheduling issues
• Attend staff meetings and trainings

Direct Client Support (60%)

Program Planning and Documentation (20%)

Other (20%)

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Personal/lived experience affected by mental health
• Minimum of a HS diploma/GED, degree in human services preferred
• Five years of experience in human services (mental health/substance use preferred)
• Qualify for and obtain the (free) NYS Peer Specialist Certification within orientation period
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record to drive agency vehicles
• Successfully complete all required background and reference checks
• Complete all state/agency required trainings during orientation period, and annually, as required
• Maintain strict confidentiality
• Support the mission and vision of MHAST

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of MH/SUD issues facing individuals in the community
• Ability to handle crisis situations, or sensitive circumstances to support and advocate for individuals in crisis
• Knowledge of community resources to assist individuals with social determinates of health (SDOH) needs
• Understanding and sensitivity to support a diverse client population (race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, etc.)
• Knowledge or experience using an EMR/EHR system
• Experience using Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Teams, etc.)
• Ability to solve problems and use critical thinking skills
• Excellent communication skills (verbal, written)

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Office setting, program/activity setting, occasional activities in community settings
• Some exposure to cleaners, chemicals is expected
• Physical requirements include walking, bending, standing, climbing stairs, and lifting (light/medium-up to 50 pounds)
• Travel required when providing transportation to clients, or to travel between MHAST locations
• May need to work flexible schedule, depending on staffing needs

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $19