Peer Counselor

Transitional Services for New York, Inc., not-for profit, is a comprehensive, community-based mental health organization located in New York City. We provide a continuum of rehabilitative services to enrich the lives of those recovering from mental illness and facilitate their transition to increased levels of independence. Transitional Services for New York, Inc. envisions broadening its rehabilitative services and becoming a regional social service provider. Transitional Services for New York Staff will deliver effective programs with compassion, integrity, and professionalism. We expect all staff to put our clients’ needs first while respecting ourselves and each other as we provide hope to those who participate in our programs.

We are currently looking for a Peer Counselor to join our Intake, Assessment, Discharge and Finance Unit (IADF) program located in Jamaica (Queens), NY.

Peer Counselor: $47,320 annually; $26 Per Hour

Position Summary

Assist the In-Reach Social Worker in conducting outreach to individuals in impacted adult homes prepare for discharge to community housing. Make recommendations for community housing and related supports that are consistent with their informed decision about housing and supports and their capabilities.

Essential Functions

• Assist the In-Reach Social Worker in admission screening of applicants.
• Provide peer counseling to individuals in impacted adult homes.
• Provide education to individuals and their related providers regarding community housing options and community services so that they may arrive at an informed decision about their housing goals.
• Identify supportive community resources to assist individuals being discharged from adult homes to supported housing.
• Conduct entitlement workshops in adult homes.
• Motivate individuals and provide counseling on expectations in supported housing (i.e. money management, lease agreement, ADLs).
• Provide education to individuals in impacted adult homes regarding the supported housing program.
• Assist In-Reach Social Worker in conducting ADLs and interpersonal skills training.
• Understand the range of housing options and related supports available in New York State.
• Assist in the development of policies and forms to improve the delivery of health and psychiatric services.
• Attend and participate in weekly team meetings.
• Conduct field visits to impacted adult homes as needed.

The ideal candidate will:

• be detailed oriented.
• be able to work independently and take initiative
• have the ability to multi-task and meet deadlines
• possess effective oral and written communication skills
• have the ability to interact effectively with all levels of employee, as well as external contacts
• be able to handle confidential and sensitive information
• require manual dexterity for the use of a computer, telephone, fax, or copy machine
• be able to prepare clear, concise reports
• possess knowledge of needs of client populations and treatment sources
• be able to plan, assign, and direct the work of others
• be able to communicate effectively orally and in writing
• support the mission, values and vision of the organization
• promote positive public relations with residents, family members, and guest
• complete requirements for in-service training, acceptable attendance, uniform and dress codes, including personal hygiene.
• be able to solve complex problems and deal with a variety of issues
• possess the ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, employees, residents, families, professionals and the general public.
• possess ability to communicate sensitive information to principals and client
• be able to lift items up to 25 pounds
• Be able to sit or stand as needed, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• May require walking, primarily on a level surface, for short periods throughout the day, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Be able to reach above shoulder heights, below the waist or lift as required to file documents or store materials throughout the workday, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• During a declared disaster, assume and adhere to assigned Job Action role(s) consistent with Disaster Preparedness Plan.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Experience/Education/Skills/Abilities

High School diploma or a combination of education and relevant experience to total four years. A graduate of a Peer Advocacy Training Program required.