Job Information
Recovery Options Made Easy Youth Peer Specialist - Per diem in Rochester, New York
Order#: NY1505219 Youth Peer Specialist - Per diem
JOB SUMMARY
Youth Peer Support (YPA) services are formal and informal services and supports provided to youth who are experiencing social, medical, emotional, developmental, substance use and/or behavioral challenges in their home, school, placement, and/or community centered services. These services provide the training and support necessary to ensure engagement and active participation of the youth in the treatment planning process and with the on-going implementation and reinforcement of skills. Services are delivered in a trauma informed, culturally and linguistically competent manner. The YPA will provide structured, scheduled activities that emphasize the opportunity for the youth to expand the skills and strategies necessary to move forward in meeting their personal, individualized goals, develop self-advocacy skills and to support their transition into adulthood.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Certified Recovery Peer Advocate-Y candidates must be 18 to 30 years of age. Ability to use lived experience with a disability, mental illness, and involvement with juvenile justice, special education, substance- use disorder, and/or foster care to assist in supporting youth in their resiliency/recovery and wellness. Agree to practice according to the Youth Peer Advocate Code of Ethics. Provide Skill Building in the development of skills used for coping with and managing psychiatric symptoms, trauma, and substance use disorders. Development of skills used for wellness, resiliency and recovery supports. Development of skills to independently navigate the service system. Develop goal setting skills and building community living skills. Coaching: Enhancing resiliency/recovery-oriented attitudes, such as hope, confidence, and self efficacy. Provide Engagement, Bridging and Transition supports, such as acting as a peer partner in transitioning to different levels of care and into adulthood; helping youth understand what to expect and how and why they should be active in developing their treatment plan and natural supports. Self-Advocacy, Self-Efficacy & Empowerment. Developing, linking and facilitating the use of formal and informal services, including connection to peer support groups in the community. Serving as an advocate mentor or facilitator for resolution of issues. Assisting in navigating the service system including assisting with engagement and bridging during transition in care. Help youth develop self-advocacy skills (e.g., may attend a Committee on Preschool or Special Education meeting with- the youth and parent, coaching the youth to articulate his educational goals). Assist youth with gaining or regaining the ability to make independent choices and assist youth in playing a proactive role in their own treatment. The YPA guides youth to effectively communicate their individual perspective to providers and families. Assist youth in developing skills to advocate for needed services and benefits and seeking to effectively resolve unmet needs. Assist youth in understanding their treatment plan and help to ensure the plan is person/family centered.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Must have High School Diploma or GED. Must have completed Level One of the Youth Peer Support Services Advisory Council recommended and State approved training for YPAs. Agree to practice according to the Youth Peer Advocate Code of Ethics. Must have a valid Class D Driver License, reliable transportation, and minimum level of required automobile insurance.
