Peer Navigator (Bilingual English/Spanish)

As a Community Health Worker the Peer Navigator will provide a broad array of counseling/support services to individuals living with HIV/AIDS, and/or HIV negative, homeless and transgender persons, including persons with serious mental illness (SMI). Shares personal, practical experience, knowledge, and first hand insight to benefit program enrollees. Works under general supervision.

What You Will Do:

• Acts as 'Health Navigator' and works with Members to develop and implement an individualized action plan. Consults with Member/patient and provides advocacy and guidance as they navigate the healthcare system.
• Educates clients about self-help techniques. Serves as a role model and mentor to clients.
• Provides peer health navigation services to help clients connect with community-based services and supports.
• Conducts outreach, follow-up and linkage navigation activities to connect Members/patients with primary health care, substance abuse treatment, preventative services and other social support services as necessary based on guidance from the clinical team.
• Accompanies clients that require ancillary or specialty medical care to their scheduled appointments, as needed.
• Advocates effective recovery based services on behalf of clients. Researches and provides linkages to resources within the community.
• Teaches coping skills. Supports and encourages clients to take a proactive role in their recovery process.
• Assists clients in clarifying rehabilitation and recovery goals.
• Assists in the development of community support systems and networks.
• Accompanies Member Services Representatives to Primary Care Sites and participates in member growth and retention initiatives.
• Documents significant efforts with clients in chart, and records detailed progress notes.
• Participates in case conferences, staff meetings and training programs.
• Assists clients with transition to alternate housing, when appropriate.
• Participates in special projects and performs other duties as assigned.

Education:
High School Diploma or the equivalent required

NYC or NYS Peer Professional certificate or Provisional certificate preferred

Work Experience:
Minimum of one year experience in a health care or human services setting required

Experience working with persons diagnosed with HIV or AIDS, homeless persons, or Transgender individuals required

Experience with the mental health system and willingness to share personal and practical experience and knowledge appropriately and respectfully

Effective communication skills and ability to work independently required