Assistant Recovery Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Reports To: Peer and Recovery Assistant Director 

Program:  Reach One 

Location: Rockland, NY

Hours Per Week: 5-20 (flexibility required)
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt 
Salary Range: $17.50-$19.50 per hour

Join Us!  Join us at Greater Mental Health of New York, where our mission is to promote mental wellness through advocacy, community education, and direct services. We empower individuals and families on their unique journeys to recovery, honoring their rights to self-determination, choice, and collaboration. With evidence-based practices and a focus on trauma-responsive care, our dedicated team provides comprehensive services to thousands and fosters independence and resilience within our community. If you're passionate about making a difference in mental health and creating brighter futures for individuals and families throughout the Lower Hudson Valley region, apply today!

Benefits Summary

• Flexible Work Arrangements: subject to business needs, including hybrid options.
• Paid time off-15 days per year
• Paid sick time-12 days per year
• Employer-paid holidays: 11 days per year
• Onsite free gym access
• Professional Development: Opportunities for advancement, training programs, and support for certifications and continuing education.
• Additional Perks: Free EAP services and employee discounts (travel, hotels, movie tickets, theme parks, services, electronics, auto, shopping, and more)!
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): qualifying employer

Summary Description:

The Assistant Recovery Specialist is a vital support role contributing to the delivery of recovery-oriented services for individuals on their journey to mental health recovery. This position involves providing support for individual participants, facilitating groups and supporting activities/events. They will support recovery by providing services that reflect our deeply held values, including the recognition of individual rights of self-determination, choice, shared decision-making and collaboration.

Responsibilities: 

• Assist in engaging with individuals receiving mental health services to establish positive relationships by providing services in the community and in the individual’s living environment.

• Provide transportation and support during recovery-related trips, tasks, appointments, and in support of program events/activities. 

• Provide peer and recovery supports and services for a caseload of 5-10 adults diagnosed and/or labeled with mental health and/or substance use-related concerns.

• Provide encouragement, emotional support, and assistance with daily activities as needed.
• Assist in facilitating individual and group sessions focused on skill-building and coping strategies.
• Facilitate weekly peer and recovery-related groups, including all required documentation.
• Provide support and staffing during program events and activities.
• Support clients in accessing and navigating community resources and support services.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to the coordination of care.
• Maintain accurate and confidential documentation of client interactions, progress, and setbacks. This includes providing timely and appropriate documentation of services rendered, including recovery planning, progress notes, and required assessments.
• Assist in monitoring and assessing client progress in achieving recovery goals.

• Other duties as assigned.

Competencies: 

• Compassion and empathy in working with individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
• Excellent communication and active listening skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Supportive and encouraging attitude towards clients' goals and aspirations.
• Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse client populations.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Respect for confidentiality and ethical standards.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): 

• Successful implementation of recovery plans with measurable progress.
• Active participation in individual and group sessions.
• Collaborative contributions to team meetings and care coordination.
• Timely and accurate documentation of client interactions.
• Improvement in clients’ coping skills and self-efficacy.

Requirements:

• Relevant field experience as a Peer Professional/Direct Support Professional.
• CRPA/NYCPS – required within 6 months of hire. 
• Relevant experience in mental health or related roles is a plus.
• Knowledge of recovery-oriented principles and trauma-informed care.
• Familiarity with community resources and support services.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and contribute to a positive team culture.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and database management systems. 

• Fluency in English (Reading, Writing, Speaking).
• Experience with EHR (Electronic Health Records).

• Must have a valid Driver's License, a driving record that is satisfactory to our insurance carrier, and adhere to our agency driver policy.
  • Have a valid driver's license for 3 years or more.
  • Agency Drivers must be at least 21 years of age or older. 
  • Obtain and maintain current New York State Defensive Driving certification within 30 days of hire.
• Must maintain current NYS Defensive Driving certification.
• Must be cleared and maintain clearance by applicable regulatory clearances as required.
• Legally eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship. 

Special Considerations :

• Role will require regular travel and periodic fieldwork across Westchester.
• Hours per week, reporting structure, and location are subject to change per program needs.

Mandated Reporter:

This is a Mandated Reporter position. The NYS Justice Center legislation defines anyone who has regular and substantial contact with any person with special needs as a “custodian” under the law and, therefore, a mandated reporter. You can be held liable by both the civil and criminal legal systems for intentionally failing to make a report. 

Greater Mental Health of New York is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Greater Mental Health of New York is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request a reasonable accommodation, contact the Human Resources Department.