• Mental Health Peer Advocate

    FLACRA (Canandaigua, NY)


    Mental Health Peer Advocate

     

    Canandaigua, NY (Onsite) Full-Time

     

    $34,252 - $35,880/Year

    Job Details

    Job Title:Mental Health Peer Advocate

     

    Employment Type:Full-Time, Monday – Friday (8:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

    Job Summary:

    The Mental Health Peer Advocate is an essential member of the FLACRA team, providing peer support services to individuals and families affected by serious mental illness and/or substance use. Under the supervision of the Regional Coordinator, the Peer Advocate uses personal recovery experience to inspire hope, foster resilience, and empower others on their journey to wellness. Services are provided in both outpatient and community-based settings.

    Must-Have Qualifications & Skills:

    + Completion of NY State-certified Peer Support Specialist training (OMH and OASAS)

    + Current Peer Support Specialist Certification

    + High School Diploma or GED

    + 18 years of age or older

    + Valid NYS Driver’s License

    + Good interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills

    + Knowledge of recovery principles and mental health/substance use challenges

    + Ability to multitask, manage time effectively, and remain calm in a crisis

    + Lived experience with mental health and/or substance recovery is required

    Nice-to-Have Qualifications:

    + Knowledge of Crisis Intervention and Early Engagement strategies

    + Familiarity with community resources related to recovery, housing, detox, and family support

    + Experience providing peer services in a clinical or community setting

    + Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and electronic documentation systems

    Skills & Experience:

    + Strong ability to engage and support culturally diverse individuals

    + Excellent communication, teamwork, and advocacy skills

    + Organizational skills with attention to detail and follow-through

    + Ability to maintain professionalism, boundaries, and confidentiality at all times

    + Knowledge of local behavioral health services is a plus

    Job Requirements:

    Key Responsibilities:

    Recovery Support & Advocacy

    + Serve as a positive role model by sharing personal recovery experiences

    + Support clients in developing individualized recovery plans, psychiatric advance directives, and crisis plans

    + Provide psychoeducation focused on illness management, coping strategies, and empowerment

    + Assist individuals and families with harm reduction planning, treatment navigation, and goal setting

    + Help initiate and sustain individuals’ engagement in their own recovery journey

    Team Collaboration

    + Actively participate in treatment planning, team meetings, and care coordination

    + Maintain accurate and thorough documentation for all assigned cases

    + Collaborate closely with clinical teams and advocate for client needs

    + Keep supervisors informed of client progress, concerns, or service barriers

    Community Resources & Engagement

    + Connect clients and families with local or online support groups, recovery services, and educational resources

    + Support early engagement and crisis intervention efforts as needed

    + Provide outreach and mentoring to strengthen client independence and community integration

    Professional Development

    + Attend all required trainings to maintain certification and continue professional growth

    + Stay informed about best practices in peer support and recovery services

    About Us:

    Finger Lakes Area Counseling and Recovery Agency (FLACRA) is a growing, not-for-profit provider of behavioral health and substance use treatment services, with a legacy of serving the Finger Lakes region for decades. Our innovative programs include outpatient services, residential care, crisis centers, vocational and housing services, and youth-focused initiatives. FLACRA is dedicated to fostering the professional development of its staff and providing opportunities for growth in a supportive, team-oriented environment.

     

    We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive, diverse workplace where all employees are valued and respected. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply and join our mission to support recovery and mental health in our community.

     

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    Salary Details

     

    This salary was provided in the Job Posting.

     

    $34,252-$35,880

     

    Yearly Salary

     

    Job Snapshot

     

    Employee Type Full-Time

     

    Location Canandaigua, NY (Onsite)

     

    Job Type Health Care, Nonprofit - Social Services

     

    Experience 1 years

     

    Date Posted 04/29/2025