Job Description
JOB DESCRIPTION : Mental Health Advocates provide direct support, case management, and group facilitation services to youth and families participating in Gateway Wellness Center programming across Salem, Cumberland, and Gloucester Counties. Advocates engage youth in school-based, after-school, community-based, and summer programming while supporting social, emotional, and behavioral wellness. This role emphasizes relationship-building, coordination of services, documentation, and collaboration with clinical and community partners.
MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES :
- Provides direct violence prevention and intervention services to youth and families.
- Provides one-on-one counseling sessions and mentorship to program participants.
- Facilitate peer-to-peer support groups in school and community settings
- Provide intensive case management services to youth and families to address identified needs
- Assist the Program Coordinator with planning, scheduling, and implementing program activities
- Establish and maintain positive, trusting relationships with youth and families
- Conduct ongoing needs assessments and communicate observations, concerns, and progress to supervisory or clinical staff as appropriate
- Support youth and families by coordinating referrals and accessing supportive services
- Educate and involve parents, guardians, and family members in programming when appropriate
- Utilize approved intervention, de-escalation, and support strategies in accordance with program protocols
- Maintain accurate documentation, progress notes, and required reports
- Maintain clean, safe, and organized program spaces
- Participate in required supervision, staff meetings, trainings, and professional development activities
- Assist with outreach and engagement efforts
- Respond to participant needs in a timely, respectful, and supportive manner
- Work collaboratively with internal staff and external community partners to ensure continuity of care
- Attend community meetings and represent the program professionally
- Provide culturally competent, trauma-informed service delivery
- Adhere to all policies related to confidentiality, mandated reporting, safety, and ethical conduct
JOB REQUIREMENTS :
Education: Associate degree
EXPERIENCE : 1 Year
OTHER REQUIREMENTS :
- Minimum of an Associate degree in human services or other related field
- Minimum of one-year experience working in the human services or counseling field
- Computer literate and proficient in using applicable software
OTHER SKILLS - Excellent interpersonal communication skills with the ability to actively listen
- Solid relationship-building capabilities
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- A positive and compassionate attitude
- Keen attention to detail
- Ability to effectively manage time and prioritize needs
- Willingness to stay updated on new certifications and regulations within the field
- Ability to work independently or as part of a team
- Able to maintain a flexible schedule
Job Tags
Summer work, Flexible hours