Client Advocate / Peer Support / Adult (Aiken)

About the role

The Office of Mental Health at the SC Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) seeks a Client Advocate I / Peer Support / Adult (Aiken) to provide peer support services and promote recovery.

Responsibilities

• Provide patient care hours annually ensuring that patients are seen in accordance with LOC and prior authorizations are completed prior to delivery of services.
• Offer individual and group services in various settings/locations.
• Offer peer support services including mentoring, recovery coaching, peer-led groups, and navigation for social needs (e.g., housing, food).
• Document all services using collaborative documentation and in accordance with state, federal, and CARF guidelines.
• Comply with Corporate Compliance and Risk Management Plans.
• Complete required training, SCEIS training modules, and maintain PSS Certification.
• Participate in OMH PSS meetings/trainings.
• Display effective use of social and interpersonal knowledge and skills and demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of individual and group differences and similarities.
• Provide follow-up contacts to persons served in program to ensure continuity of care and promotion of recovery.

Requirements

• A high school diploma and relevant human services or social services experience.
• A bachelor's degree may be substituted for the required experience.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Self-identify as a person diagnosed with mental illness / substance use (MI/SU).
• Completed 100 hours of supervised, paid, or volunteer work providing peer support services to individuals diagnosed with MI, SU or co-occurring disorder.
• Ability to lift 5 pounds and operate a state vehicle.

Qualifications

• Bilingual abilities in English and Spanish (or another language) are a plus.

Skills

• Effective use of social and interpersonal knowledge and skills.
• Demonstrated understanding and appreciation of individual and group differences and similarities.
• Effective use of problem-solving skills and decision-making skills.
• Knowledge of agency and community resources and ability to link individuals with resources.
• Ability to teach individuals how to take responsibility for recovery.
• Ability to advocate for patient needs.
• Ability to collaborate with treatment team.
• Sustained recovery.

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children.
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year.
• 15 days sick leave per year.
• 13 paid holidays.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available (S.C. Deferred Compensation).
• Retirement benefit choices *State Retirement Plan (SCRS)State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP).