Independent Living Specialist - MAP Brooklyn/Queens

About the Role

This is a field-based position, working in the community in clients’ apartments as part of a residential treatment model. The role supports clients with a mental health diagnosis (Serious and Persistent Mental Illness) and/or substance use disorder in a transitional community-based mental health housing program.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of an assigned caseload, including intake and admission processes.
• Provide restorative services daily and develop/update service plans.
• Maintain chart documentation and offer supportive counseling.
• Teach and assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), money management, and independent medication administration.
• Coordinate recreational activities and provide linkages/referrals to community resources (e.g., medical, mental health, or substance abuse services).
• Utilize harm reduction approaches and motivational interviewing techniques.
• Conduct regular visits to client apartments to ensure safety and coordinate repairs as needed.
• Participate in community meetings, interdisciplinary team meetings, and BRC-approved trainings.
• Serve as on-call staff during off-hours and provide emergency first aid/CPR assistance when needed.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• A BA is strongly preferred; equivalent experience in the mental health field may be considered.
• Experience in supportive counseling, case management, or ADL skills training is preferred.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) is preferred.
• Basic computer literacy is required.
• CPR training certification or willingness to complete training.
• Vaccination is preferred but not required.
• Full-time role requiring travel to apartments in Brooklyn and Queens.

Schedule

Full-time, 35 hours per week. Sunday–Thursday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM.

About the Program

The Metropolitan Apartment Program (MAP) is a transitional housing program for formerly homeless clients who are mentally ill or dually diagnosed with mental illness and chemical addiction. Funded by the NYS Office of Mental Health and Medicaid, MAP provides apartments in Manhattan and the Bronx for 87 clients who thrive in a more independent living environment than traditional community residences.

The program’s mission is to offer a safe and supportive environment where residents engage in rehabilitation interventions to achieve work, social, and community living goals. Services include case management, substance abuse groups, money management, daily skills training, and recreational activities.

Benefits

• Eligibility for health insurance and paid sick time immediately upon starting.
• Competitive health and dental plans covering spouses, domestic partners, and dependents.
• A minimum of 3 weeks paid vacation, 12 paid holidays, and additional paid sick/personal time.
• 403(b) pension plan with employer matching.
• Tuition assistance and career development training opportunities.
• Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for healthcare, transit, and childcare.