What are the responsibilities and job description for the Peer and Family Advocate position at Stars Behavioral Health Group?
JOB SUMMARY: Peer and Family Advocates are people who have lived experience in the mental health system in some capacity. They serve as role models, companions, educators and advocates to our consumers. Although not professional counselors, Peer and Family Advocates are treatment team members and trained in basic counseling skills.Peer and Family Advocates help consumers explore options given their available resources and formulate problem-solving plans. They also serve as informal Advocates, offering consumers the opportunity to discuss issues surrounding relationships, feelings, attitudes, personal goals and individual rights. Sometimes Peer Advocates help people learn independent living skills such as money management or various household skills.Using the Recovery Model outlined in the MHSA (Mental Health Services Act), the goal of the Peer and Family Advocate is to empower consumers in creating a hopeful future where they can experience the possibilities of getting a job, earning a diploma, and having an apartment of their own. The Peer Advocate will support consumers in moving toward recovery, creating a meaningful role in their life, which is separate from their illness.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSEducationHigh School Diploma and completion of some college-level (or equivalent) coursework in sociology, psychology, mental illness and its treatment, health care system, counseling and/or peer counseling orExperienceSix months of full-time or experience performing non-professional, consumer directed services in a mental health, health care, counseling, peer counseling, education, advocacy, or other social services agency / organization serving people with disabilities. License or CertificationValid California Driver's License preferredPhysical RequirementsAbility to visually and audibly assess client's behavior and needs.POTENTIAL JOB HAZARDSAssaultive clientsBlood and Body Fluid Contact (Category I)Operation of company vehicleSAFETY PRECAUTIONS REQUIREDUnderstanding of Standard Precautions.Demonstrated safe driving record with DMVESSENTIAL DUTIES1. Be available to meet with consumers and families, including consumers and families in crisis.2. Assist consumers in identifying and prioritizing aftercare options.3. Help consumers and families understand the community mental health system as well as their options and rights within that system.4. Assisting consumers to communicate with other treatment team members, especially during crisis.5. Assisting social workers with family, placement, and community agency contacts.6. Advocating on behalf of consumers and promoting self-advocacy.7. Modeling and training consumers in independent living skills.8. Providing emotional support for consumers.9. Providing feedback describing interactions with consumers.10. Communicating with the coordinator of the program about problems or concerns.
