First Episode Psychosis Family Partner

First Episode Psychosis Family Partner

General Description

Denton County MHMR Center employees are to be committed to fostering an open, inclusive, and supportive environment that welcomes and embraces diversity in all forms. Denton County MHMR Center defines diversity broadly to include race, ethnicity, abilities (mental/physical), gender, gender identity, immigrant status, language, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, veteran status, age, and other groups.

Denton County MHMR Center employees are to strive to maintain a trauma sensitive workplace, to embrace trauma sensitive and informed practices, and to foster a supportive and welcoming environment of care.

Under the direction of the COMPASS Program Manager and within federal, state and local guidelines performs complex human services support work. Work involves providing information to clients or assisting staff in the delivery of social services.

The Family Partner will provide services to families that are receiving Coordinated Specialty Care - Early Onset (COMPASS) program services in accordance with the standards defined in TAC, Title 26, Part 1, Chapter 301, to help with referrals, advocacy and empowerment through informal skills training. The Family Partner is a formal member of the Coordinated Specialty Care - Early Onset (COMPASS) program team whose role is to serve the family and help them engage and actively participate on the team and make informed decisions that drive the process. Family Partners have a strong connection to the community and are very knowledgeable about resources, services and supports for families. The Family Partner's personal experience is critical to earning the respect of families and establishing trusting relationship that is valued by the family. The Family Partner can be a mediator, facilitator or bridge between families and agencies. Family Partners ensure each family is heard and their individual needs are being addressed and met. Works under moderate supervision.

Education, Training and Experience (including licensure and certification)

High School Diploma or GED is required to qualify as a Family Partner. Must begin process of being a Certified Family Partner within 3 months of employment start. Must have at least one year experience of raising a child with special needs. Must have experience navigating the Mental Health System, Special Education or Juvenile Justice System. Need a good knowledge base of mental illness diagnoses and behavior disorders. Must be able to collaborate closely with family members and professionals to develop and implement individualized plans of care. Must have a flexible schedule in order to meet with the family at times that are convenient to the family.

REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION, LICENSURE OR OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:

• All job specific training must be completed within 30 days of hire.
• Must maintain a valid Texas driver's license, auto liability insurance and a driving record acceptable to the Centers insurance requirements.
• Must be able to obtain certification as a Certified Family Partner within one year of hire.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of the needs, problems, and community environments of persons with disabilities; of community and government service delivery systems; of case management systems; and of community welfare resources.
• Skill in conducting individual needs assessments and in the operation of computers and applicable computer software.
• Ability to negotiate services, to communicate effectively, and to train others.
• Understanding and practice of Trauma Informed Care principles.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written and the ability to be assertive with authorities in other agencies as needed.

Essential Duties

1. Serves as a positive role model demonstrating professional and caring attitudes and behaviors toward clients and members of their families.
2. Teach problem solving techniques with individuals and groups within the Coordinated Specialty Care - Early Onset (COMPASS) Program.
3. Maintain productivity goal of meeting with at least 50% of individuals enrolled in Coordinated Specialty Care - Early Onset (COMPASS) Program per quarter.
4. Maintains accurate and concise documentation of contacts with family, team members and providers, including follow-up on referrals made. Enter all documentation for services rendered according to Center Policy
5. Research sources and educates families about resources in their community which meet their specific needs; assists parents/caregivers/consumers in accessing social supports.
6. Teaches families/caregivers effective advocacy skills.
7. Serves as Peer Mentor to parents/caregivers of families served and lending informal support.
8. Facilitates caregivers' ability to work collaboratively with professionals in the community.
9. Scheduling and overseeing of Family Support Groups for the purpose and re-enforcement of family coping skills, stronger family unity, and achieving fluidity in functioning with day-to-day needs of family members with mental illness.
10. Maintains acceptable driving record as required for DCMHMR insurance. Perform additional duties as deemed necessary by department supervisor within designated time frames.
11. Delivers services and supports that reflect the unique cultural values and practices of the family.
12. Is present and on duty with no excessive time off. All use of vacation, compensatory, personal leave time is authorized in advance. Is aware of and demonstrates safe working habits. Complies with all facility safety standards realizing they are intended to protect employees and individuals served.
13. Provides emergency intervention when necessary according to Department of Human Services (DHS) and Center Policies and Procedures. Provides verbal and physical PMAB intervention correctly when necessary; provides CPR in an emergency until other medical aid arrives; provides emergency and non-emergency first aid until professional medical aid arrives or as directed by a licensed medical professional.