Hospital Peer Advocate
Job purpose
Are you a caregiver/parent of a child or youth that has struggled with mental health, social emotional, or behavioral challenges? Have you ever had to go to the Psychiatric Emergency Room? Do you have a loved one that has lived with a mental illness? Did you know where to get the help when you needed it? Have you had to take your child or loved one to the hospital because of their mental health? You can be a Peer Advocate with Mental Health Advocates of WNY. We are looking for passionate individuals who want to help others to join our peer lead organization. We are looking for full–time and part-time Peer Advocates. A Peer Advocate should be a parent, grandparents, caregiver of a child that has utilized services for their child’s mental health, or an individual that has their own lived experience with Mental Health, or a student going in the field of social work, psychology, or a related field.Duties and responsibilities
- Support caregivers and Individuals who in the Psychiatric Emergency Room (CPEP) and on the behavioral health units at Erie County Medical Center.
- Disseminating information and referrals by providing linkage to appropriate agencies or providers as needed.
- Help families and patients understand the process of evaluation and possible treatment in the CPEP.
- Utilize technology such as iPads to link families and patients to supports in the community.
- Use a family-centered strength base approach to assure the needs of families and patients’ are met in a culturally competent way.
- Prepare materials as needed for dissemination.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
The following is a list of experience, technologies, credentials, skills, and other items which are required for this position:
- Preference given to a parent/caregiver of a child, adolescent or young adult who has mental health and/or behavioral health challenges; Indvidual’s with lived experience having a mental health diagnosis; students studying social work, psychology, or related field.
- Broad knowledge and experience in the mental health system or the willingness to learn.
- Good networking experience.
- Ability to demonstrate sensitivity and a supportive approach to the needs of others.
- Ability to practice of a high level of confidentiality.
- Above average oral and written communication skills.
- Excellent relationship building, interpersonal and coaching skills.
- Sound, independent decision-making ability.
- Team-first attitude and a positive demeanor.
- Proficient computer skills in a Microsoft 365 (Word, Access, PowerPoint, One Drive, etc.) a plus.
- Flexibility with schedule to include evening hours and weekends.
- Mental Health Advocates of WNY is an equal opportunity employer. People of diverse backgrounds, race, ethnicity, and gender, and those who speak a second language are encouraged to apply.
Travel Requirements
Valid NYS driver’s license and reliable transportation.
How to Apply
Please email your resume and cover letter outlining your experience with mental health to:
Stacie Dziwulski
Director, Child and Family Support Program
Mental Health Advocates of WNY
sdziwulski@mhawny.org
To apply on Indeed:
Do You Need Help?
Information & referral specialists are available M-F, 8:30am-4:30pm to help link you to community resources, providers, or treatment services.
Call (716) 886-1242.