Respite Specialist

Job title: Respite Specialist Reports to: Crisis Stabilization Team Lead Program: Crisis Stabilization Location: Tarrytown, NY Hours per week: 35 hours FLSA Status: Full-time Non-Exempt Annual Salary: $45,000 to $48,000 (Bilingual candidates are eligible for a pay differential) 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

403(b)-with employer contribution after 1 year of service Flexible Work Arrangements: subject to business needs, including hybrid options. Medical insurance Dental insurance Vision insurance Life insurance Paid time off-15 days per year Paid sick time-12 days per year Employer-paid holidays: 11 days per year 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)! Gym reimbursement through employer's medical insurance carrier. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): qualifying employer The Crisis Stabilization Team serves children/youth throughout Westchester County.

The team provides intensive crisis supports to youth who are determined to be at high risk of hospitalization, re-hospitalization, or placement. These services are intended to reduce acute symptoms, restore individuals to pre-crisis levels of functioning and to build and strengthen natural supports. Summary Description: The Respite Specialist provides short-term assistance to children/youth in the absence of, or need for, relief for the child or the child’s family caregiver.

The Respite Specialist supervises the child/youth and engages them in activities that support his/her constructive interests and abilities.

Responsibilities

Engage youth in a variety of strategies to work toward identified goals, including but not limited to: strengthening problem-solving skills; providing mentoring; engaging in community activities and resource exploration; and providing life skills support. Document progress and maintain a permanent record of activity according to established agency policy/procedures and program guidance.

Practice with a person-centered, trauma-informed philosophy in alignment with the values of GMH. Help to shape the team’s culture to one that promotes person-centered, recovery-focused, strength-based service delivery. Assist in youth engagement and retention activities to promote optimum involvement with the team, including helping the team maintain a family-focused, recovery-oriented approach.

Maintain appropriate professional standards. Responsible for adhering to all standards and guidelines established by applicable regulatory authorities. Participate in team meetings. Due to the nature of the position, the ability to work a flexible schedule is required. Other designated and related duties. Competencies: Knowledge of the signs of psychiatric crises, engagement skills, and de-escalation techniques.

Familiarity with and ability to use an Electronic Health Record system. Experience understanding family systems based on diversity of cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Highly organized, detail-oriented, and self-motivated. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Timely and accurate documentation in accordance with GMH documentation policy.

Ensure that all productivity expectations are met. Meet and maintain all professional development & training expectations. Demonstrated ability to relate well to and engage youth and their family members.

Requirements

The Respite Specialist must have a minimum of a high school diploma, high school equivalency preferred or a State Education Commencement Credential (e.g. SACC or CDOS). Experience working with children/youth (preference given to those with experience working with children/youth with special needs). Strong computer knowledge: typing, communication tools, scheduling tools and web browsers.

Must be reliable and able to work independently and understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality. Fluency in English (Reading, Writing, Speaking). 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.

Have no more than 6 points on your driving record. 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 be cleared and maintain clearance by applicable regulatory clearances as required. Must be legally eligible to work in the United States.

Special Considerations : 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.