Peer Advocate

ABOUT THE PROGRAM: Chance for Change, a small non-profit OASAS (part 822) licensed outpatient treatment program, who prides itself on providing treatment services for individuals experiencing homelessness, living in transitional housing settings, supportive housing settings or residing in emergency shelters. Our clinic and “harm reduction” model use a client centered approach to connect with individuals to address their substance use disorders. We work through a collaborative, respectful and empathic environment. Individual and group therapy sessions focus not only on substance use reduction or sobriety but also on assisting and supporting our clients manage other life areas such as mental illness, chronic medical conditions, homelessness, unemployment and other life stressors.

REPORTS TO: Director of Outpatient Services, Chance for Change

BASIC FUNCTION: The Peer Advocate/Recovery coach is responsible for providing individual recovery planning based on peer recovery services assessments with all clients and prospective clients applying for or considering services at Chance for Change. Working closely with counselors, and the director to construct recovery plans and activities outside the scope of the treatment plan/schedule. The Peer advocate will engage clients and potential clients in discussions of recovery options available, and inspire, encourage, and support client’s treatment and recovery needs. The Advocate is a part time, non-exempt position.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Provide individual recovery assessment and establish recovery plans and goals.

· Advocate, support and assist clients in establishing recovery related activities in the community, including housing, employment, self-help, and as well as essential needs such as food, clothing, and shelter

· Escort and assist clients in getting to and utilizing appointments for benefits, medical care and community-based self-help programs

· Document all sessions and meetings, including meetings in the community, in a client’s clinical record, including assessments, recovery plans and peer recovery individual and group session notes

· Provide presentations and motivational groups to community-based referral sources including staff and residents of those organizations

· Operate as a liaison with all referral agencies

· Establish community and agency affiliations which address clients’ needs and strengthen the delivery of services

· Attend regularly scheduled staff meetings and case conferences

· Attend all required in-service training seminars

· Other relevant duties as required

QUALIFICATIONS:

· CPRA or Recovery Coach certification

· High School Diploma/GED

· Experience as peer recovery coach in a mental health or substance use disorder treatment setting preferred

· Proficiency with computer operation (Microsoft Word, Excel, AWARDS, and Outlook programs), with good written and verbal skills

· Must be able to work a flexible schedule

COMPENSATION:

The pay range for this role is between $17.00 and $18.50 per hour for an 8 hour work week.

HOW TO APPLY: Submit a cover letter including salary requirements and a resume to search@ncsinc.org

NCS is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered regardless of race, creed, color, religion, citizenship or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability or handicap, sex, gender identity or expression, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation or any other protected status.