Position Summary
The Youth Peer Advocate (YPA) provides peer-based support and mentoring to young people navigating mental health challenges. Drawing on lived experience as a youth in services, the YPA promotes hope, empowerment, and self-advocacy, helping young clients engage more fully in treatment and community life. This role may include working in the clinic, schools, homes, and other community settings, while maintaining compliance with OMH standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide peer mentoring, skill-building, and group facilitation to support youth recovery and engagement
- Assist young clients in developing self-advocacy skills, setting personal goals, and navigating systems (school, mental health, social services)
- Encourage engagement in treatment and promote resilience and hope
- Support youth in building social and community connections
- Deliver services onsite and in-community to increase access and reduce barriers
- Maintain timely documentation in line with OMH and agency requirements
- Participate in supervision, team meetings, and ongoing training for professional growth
Qualifications
- Youth Peer Advocate (YPA) credential in New York State (Provisional or Professional) required or eligibility to obtain
- Must be 18–30 years old, with lived experience receiving mental health or related youth services
- Strong communication and mentoring skills, with the ability to engage youth effectively
- Knowledge of recovery-oriented, youth-guided, and trauma-informed care principles
- Ability to provide services in schools, homes, or other community-based settings
- Bilingual skills a plus
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: $22.00 - $27.00 per hour
License/Certification:
- YPA Provisional/Professional credential from FTNYS (Required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Brooklyn, NY 11215
