Certified MediCal Peer Support Specialist ( Parent partner )

Therapeutic Behavioral Services

Certified MediCal Peer Support Specialist (Parent partner)

Program Description:

New Alternatives, Inc. - Therapeutic Behavioral Services (TBS) is an intensive, one-to-one, behavioral modification program designed to teach children, adolescents and their caregivers new behavioral strategies to promote positive and appropriate functioning. TBS is a program contracted through the County of San Diego. The clients that are referred to TBS are either at-risk of needing a higher level of care or being hospitalized as a result of the severity of their behaviors, or TBS clients may require support as they transition to a lower level of care. TBS provides behavior coaching, case management, and parental support to these clients from a strength-based, trauma-informed perspective. TBS can provide behavioral services in homes, residential facilities/group homes, day treatment programs and in some school-settings.

Position Description:

The Parent Partner acts as an advocate for parent/caregiver while they are receiving TBS services. They empower and support parents/caregivers in positive parenting strategies and behavioral interventions, work closely with parents/caregivers who may struggle to implement change, inform TBS administrative, clinical and coaching staff on effective trauma-informed procedures and policies that effectively engage families.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities (Include But Are Not Limited To):

• Meet with client’s parent and/or caregiver in their home and/or in the community
• Drive to and from client homes in a variety of settings (mileage reimbursed at federal rate)
• Relate to the needs and concerns of caregivers as it relates to the youth’s target behavior/treatment plan with TBS
• Develop rapport and trust with caregivers to advocate for their positive use of TBS services
• Provide support, information, and access to needed resources as it relates to positive outcomes with TBS
• Assist caregivers with navigating the behavioral health system on behalf of their child
• Explain TBS interventions to help caregivers engage in and be successful in TBS services. This may include implementation of household rules, daily routines, age-appropriate expectations, positive parenting, understanding child’s mental health needs, understanding the impacts of trauma, and assisting client with use of coping skills
• Teach other parenting skills and assist caregiver with self-care and other needs
• Document all services with caregivers as progress notes in SmartCare, San Diego County’s electronic health record
• Thoroughly and regularly communicate client and family needs and progress with TBS Case Manager and TBS Coach
• Attend staff meetings, case consult, biweekly and monthly team meetings as scheduled to update all treatment team members of family needs. Other meetings such as IEP meetings may also be applicable
• With support from TBS Case Manager, Clinical Lead, or another supervisor, intervene in the event of a crisis as needed. Provide necessary crisis resources or guidance as needed
• Develop content for monthly Parent Newsletter
• Develop, coordinate, and implement bi-annual Program Advisory Group to gather feedback and support TBS families past and present
• Comply with all agency and program policy and procedure including HIPAA standards
• Contribute to the overall operation of the program as a team member, including coordination of responsibilities with other Parent Partner and TBS staff
• Maintain knowledge of best practices including Positive Discipline, Trauma-Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing, and attend training as assigned.
• Complete tasks as assigned by supervisor

Required Background and Skills:

• Lived experience as a recipient or caregiver/parent of a consumer of mental health services, preferably in San Diego County
• Valid Driver’s License, as well as a reliable vehicle and active auto insurance
• Effective written and oral communication
• A supportive team player
• Advocacy that is strength based, empowering & professional
• Give and receive constructive feedback
• Ability to work with diverse populations, and be able to relate to the needs and concerns of those seeking mental health treatment
• Comfortable utilizing computer and working in a fast-paced environment

Additional Preferred Qualifications:

• Peer Support Specialist Certification (without, must obtain during first 90 days of employment)
• Bi-Lingual (English/Spanish)
• Knowledge of and experience providing trauma-informed care
• Knowledge of and experience with San Diego County’s behavioral health system of care and other social services
• Knowledge of and experience providing behavioral modification techniques

Position Benefits:

• Full-time, hourly position
• Medical, dental insurance packages available
• Paid time off including sick and vacation time
• Mileage reimbursement to client services
• Multiple training opportunities

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.00 - $21.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person