About Us

Mount Behavioral Health is a values-driven mental health organization dedicated to providing person-centered, culturally responsive care. We are expanding our Peer Services Team and are seeking a passionate MHCs or MSWs who qualify to become Youth Peer Advocates (YPA) to support youth in achieving their wellness goals through mentorship and lived experience.

Position Summary

The Youth Peer Advocate (YPA) will use their own lived experience with emotional or behavioral health challenges to provide support and advocacy to youth aged 12–21. Services will be delivered at client's home, in school or in the community.

**If you are not yet certified as a YPA but have the qualifications, Mount Behavioral Health will guide you on the application process to become a YPA upon hire**

Key Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one peer support to youth in their home, school, community or remotely
• Use shared lived experience to build trust and promote youth empowerment
• Support youth in developing life skills, building natural supports, and navigating services
• Assist youth in setting personal goals and making informed decisions
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings as a youth voice
• Accurately document all services in accordance with OMH and agency standards

Qualifications

• Personal lived experience with mental health, substance use, juvenile justice, foster care, or special education systems
• Age between 18-30
• Ability to work independently and maintain confidentiality
• Reliable internet access and ability to travel within the community as needed
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience working with youth
• Familiarity with Medicaid or OMH programs a plus
• Ability to Travel

Job Type

Part-time
Flexible schedule
Home, school and or community-based work

Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay
• Ongoing supervision and professional development
• Opportunities for peer networking and continuing education
• Supportive, mission-driven work culture

If you are passionate about helping others and have the qualifications- we'd love to hear from you!

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour

Expected hours: 5 – 15 per week

Application Question(s):

• Are you between the age of 18-30 as is required by OMH for this position?
• Do you have personal lived experience with emotional (mental health), behavioral challenges, and/or co-occurring disorders as is required by OMH for this position?

Experience:

• Youth Mental Health Support: 2 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• MSW or MHC (Required)

Location:

• Kings County, NY (Required)

Work Location: In person