Peer Advocate

Position Overview:

As a Peer Counselor, you will provide essential peer support, education, and advocacy to individuals living with or at risk of HIV. Your personal experience and understanding of the challenges faced by those with HIV will be invaluable in offering emotional support, promoting adherence to treatment, and connecting clients with essential resources. You will collaborate with case managers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to enhance the well-being and quality of life for our clients and perform outreach activities as part of the Minority AIDS Initiative (MAI).


Key Responsibilities:


Peer Counseling & Support:

• Facilitate individual therapeutic sessions with clients, using personal experience to provide guidance and support.
• Assist clients in implementing treatment goals, including adherence to prescribed regimens, medications, and medical procedures.
• Provide emotional support and encouragement to help clients manage their health and well-being.

Client Education & Empowerment:

• Educate clients about the Ryan White service delivery system, helping them navigate available resources and services.
• Offer information and training on self-care practices that align with clients' treatment goals.
• Empower clients to take an active role in managing their health by fostering a supportive and understanding relationship.

Client Interaction & Monitoring:

• Maintain regular contact with clients through face-to-face meetings, phone calls, and home visits.
• Monitor clients' progress in adhering to their treatment plans and provide ongoing support to address any challenges or concerns.
• Document interactions and progress, ensuring accurate records are kept for each client.

Collaboration & Coordination:

• Work collaboratively with healthcare providers, case managers, and other professionals to ensure a comprehensive approach to client care.
• Participate in team meetings and case conferences to discuss client progress and strategies for continued support.
• Coordinate with other services and resources to meet clients' needs effectively.

HIV Counseling, Testing & PrEP Uptake:

• Proficiency in HIV counseling and testing protocols in compliance with Florida Statutes and Administrative Code.
• Strong communication and counseling skills, with the ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and empathy.
• Knowledge of public health policies and the legal framework governing HIV testing and reporting.
• Ability to assess patient risks and provide appropriate educational and medical guidance.
• Experience with electronic medical records and accurate documentation practices.
• Cultural competence and interpersonal skills to engage diverse populations effectively.
• Link clients with Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) or HIV treatment.

Qualifications:


High school diploma or equivalent; some college coursework in social work, psychology, or a related field is preferred.


Personal experience with a similar health condition or challenge as the clients being served.


Strong understanding of the Ryan White service delivery system and available resources.


Excellent communication, empathy, and interpersonal skills.


Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.


Commitment to supporting clients in a compassionate, non-judgmental manner.


Maintain Certification with Department of Health's HIV Testing & Counseling Department


Reports To: Juliett Taylor, Case Management Supervisor


Employment Type: Full-Time


Salary: $30,000 - $40,000, depending on experience