Overview:

WJCS is currently seeking a per diem Peer Specialist to work in our Mobile Crisis and Response Team (MCRT), in Peekskill. Under the general supervision of the Program Director and the team’s Licensed Clinicians, the Peer Specialist will bring their expertise through sharing their lived experiences to engage clients and serve as an ally and mentor for clients of all ages and situations as they contend with difficulties and uncertainties surrounding their mental health crisis. The Peer Specialist will forge relationships with their team, community providers and will represent the voice of the client, when necessary, within the team or broader setting.

Our Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT) is an integral part of Westchester County’s Project Alliance, partnering with the police departments in Peekskill, Buchanan, Cortland, Croton-on-Hudson, and Yorktown to provide critical mobile crisis services.

In addition to a competitive salary of $50,000, you will receive specialized training and ongoing supervision from Licensed Clinicians.

Saturday day and evening hours, plus other coverage for staff vacations and sick days.

Responsibilities:

As a valued member of our team, your responsibilities will include (but are not limited to):

• Collaborating closely with Police and EMS, Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health (DCMH), 988, to deliver services to individuals who are in mental health crisis. This includes de-escalation, risk assessment and making referral to help clients live safely and prevent future crisis.
• Being a part of our cohesive team comprised of licensed clinicians, Peer Specialists, student intern and administrative assistant.
• Following-up with clients, typically up to 2 weeks after crisis response, with the aim to link client to appropriate services.
• Co-responding to mental health crisis with an MCRT licensed clinician and local police

Requirements:
We are seeking candidates who possess the following qualifications:

• State Peer Certification or Provisional Certification as a Peer Specialist/CRPA, or willingness to complete certification process in a capped time
• Minimum of 2 years of active participation in mental health, self-help activities, peer support, or peer advocacy programs, or similar experiences (preferred)
• Bilingual (Spanish-English) candidates are encouraged to apply
• Must possess a valid driver’s license
• Willingness to be flexible to work in a team to address mental health crises alongside local police
• Solid team focus and flexibility, in keeping with WJCS MCRT’s positive and supportive environment
• Strong work ethic – must work well in team and independently, plus across systems

Why join Westchester Jewish Community Services?

Founded in 1943, WJCS provides a vast range of supportive community services each year to 20,000 people of all ages and backgrounds. Across every division, WJCS employees are connected by their shared values and commitment to helping those in need.

We are dedicated to ensuring dignity and respect for all employees in an inclusive and safe environment that values diversity, experience, and merit. We are committed to racial justice and equal opportunity, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, class, ability, sexual orientation, and gender identity differences—for employment, professional development, and advancement for qualified individuals.

WJCS INC. IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER