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State of South Carolina

Client Advocate I / Peer Support Specialist (Pickens)

State of South Carolina, Cayce, South Carolina, United States, 29033

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Overview

Are you passionate about making a real difference in people's lives? Join our team at the Office of Mental Health where we provide compassionate and accessible care to our community. We are seeking a

Client Advocate I (Pickens)

who is motivated to help individuals and families navigate life's challenges and achieve long-term wellness. If you want to use your skills to build a healthier, more resilient community, we encourage you to apply. This position is located at the SC Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) - Office of Mental Health, Pickens County Clinic, 337 West Main Street, Pickens, SC 29640. This position is supervised by a Mental Health Professional who ensures that all services rendered are provided in accordance with certification training standards and accepted clinical practice.

Responsibilities Serve as an active member of the patient's treatment team and advocate for services requested by the patient. Help the patient develop the ability to make informed, independent choices, set goals, and gain information and support from the community. Plan activities that lead to improved self-concepts through empowerment and self-determination.

Teach and model the importance of medication monitoring, clear communication with doctors and other caregivers, developing a WRAP plan, Psychiatric Advance Directive, and/or crisis plan to facilitate or shorten hospitalization. Assist the patient in maintaining stable housing and employment.

Provide support and encouragement to the patient and, when chosen by the patient, their family members. Share recovery experiences to inspire hope and teach effective coping techniques and self-help strategies.

With supervision from a Mental Health Professional, document on the patient's treatment plan: identified strengths, needs, recovery goals; interventions to reach goals; and progress toward goals.

Conduct/co-facilitate continuing education opportunities for other Peer Support Specialists and participate in train-the-trainer activities related to certification and continuing education programs. Maintain a valid SC Driver’s License.

Performs other duties as required.

Qualifications A high school diploma and relevant human services or social services experience. A bachelor’s degree may be substituted for the required experience.

Applicant must be a current or former patient of mental health services, plus have one-year participation in a local or national patient movement or demonstrate recovery experience. Related experience as a trainer or presenter preferred.

Additional Requirements Must possess a valid SC Driver’s License.

If not already certified as a SC Peer Support Specialist by SC Share, must attend mandatory training and certification requirements after initial hire.

This position requires the ability to bend, stoop, climb, drive between locations, lift, and file.

This position may be considered essential; the employee may be asked to report to work even if the Center is closed in the event of an emergency.

Bilingual abilities in English and Spanish (or another language) are a plus.

Post Hire Requirements Be able to pass CPR and Managing Agitation in the Psychiatric Setting (MAPS) Certification.

Complete and pass SC Share Peer Support Training and continuing education programs.

Maintain a working knowledge of current developments in the areas of mental health.

EEO and Compliance

The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.

Application Information

Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application. Any misrepresentation will result in disqualification from employment. Please complete the state application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume will not be accepted or reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position.

Benefits (Full-Time Employees) Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. Information available upon request.

15 days annual (vacation) leave per year

15 days sick leave per year

13 paid holidays

Paid Parental Leave

S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available

Retirement benefit options:

State Retirement Plan (SCRS)

State Optional Retirement Program (ORP)

*Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of retirement sites for the current rate.

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