Advocate Specialist | ER Crisis Service

CSPNJ, a mental health nonprofit agency, is seeking an Advocate Specialist to work in the mental health crisis unit at Saint Peter's University Hospital Emergency Room.

About the role

The Advocate Specialist engages and provides peer support and advocacy to individuals waiting for a psychiatric evaluation. Trained in wellness and recovery and in hospital procedures, the Advocate Specialist offers transparent feedback and information to people in the Emergency Department.

Responsibilities

• Provide peer support and advocacy to individuals in the Emergency Department awaiting psychiatric evaluation.
• Offer transparent feedback and information based on wellness and recovery principles.
• Engage with individuals experiencing mental health crises in a caring and professional manner.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Wellness and Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) training is preferred.
• Experience providing peer support and a commitment to helping others.
• Excellent communication, assessment, and interpersonal skills.
• Empathetic with good listening skills; patient and emotionally resilient.
• Willingness to disclose and speak openly about current or prior use of mental health and/or addiction services.
• Ability to work with individuals with mental illness in a professional and compassionate manner.
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office).
• Valid NJ Driver’s License with acceptable driving record.
• Lived experience dealing with mental health or substance use issues (prioritized).
• Bilingual skills are a plus.

All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment screenings, including a background check, physical exam, drug test, and required immunizations.

Schedule

• Part-time: 10 hours per week.
• Monday & Friday: 2pm – 7pm.
• Eligible for NJ Earned Sick Leave (NJESL).

Pay

Hourly Rate: $17.00