Named one of the best places to work in California!
We are committed to providing a career-enhancing environment for dedicated professionals desiring to make a difference in the lives of young people and their families. Stars Behavioral Health Group (SBHG) currently employs approximately 1,700 people at more than 45 different sites throughout California in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Fresno, Central Valley, Stanislaus, Santa Clara, Alameda, and Sacramento counties. We serve more than 30,000 children, youth and families annually throughout the state.
Our experienced staff of Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Social Workers, Mental Health Specialists, Parent Partners and other therapists/counselors provide case management, mental health care and a range of support services in schools, homes or other community settings. Our dedicated teams work collaboratively and in partnership with family members, school administrators and faculty, county social workers, case managers, probation officers and other agencies.
JOB SUMMARY
Peer and Family Advocates are people who have lived experience in the mental health system in some capacity. They serve as role models, companions, educators and advocates to our consumers. Although not professional counselors, Peer and Family Advocates are treatment team members and trained in basic counseling skills.
Peer and Family Advocates help consumers explore options given their available resources and formulate problem-solving plans. They also serve as informal Advocates, offering consumers the opportunity to discuss issues surrounding relationships, feelings, attitudes, personal goals and individual rights. Sometimes Peer Advocates help people learn independent living skills such as money management or various household skills.
Using the Recovery Model outlined in the MHSA (Mental Health Services Act), the goal of the Peer and Family Advocate is to empower consumers in creating a hopeful future where they can experience the possibilities of getting a job, earning a diploma, and having an apartment of their own. The Peer Advocate will support consumers in moving toward recovery, creating a meaningful role in their life, which is separate from their illness.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education
High School Diploma and completion of some college-level
(or equivalent) coursework in sociology, psychology, mental illness and its treatment, health care system, counseling and/or peer counseling or
Experience
Six months of full-time or experience performing non-professional, consumer directed services
in a mental health, health care, counseling, peer counseling, education, advocacy, or other social services agency / organization serving people with
disabilities.
License or Certification
Valid California Driver's License preferred
Physical Requirements
Ability to visually and audibly assess client's behavior
and needs.
POTENTIAL JOB HAZARDS
Assaultive clients
Blood and Body Fluid Contact (Category I)
Operation of company vehicle
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS REQUIRED
Understanding of Standard Precautions.
Demonstrated safe driving record with DMV
We offer: