Teen Mental Health Program Coordinator
Job Type: Part-time 15 hours/week. Flexible schedule
Pay: $30-35/hr
Preferred Credentials: LMSW, LMHC, Psychology
Location: Greater Capital Region (Albany NY and surrounding areas)
Mode of Service: In-Person and Virtual Services
Background:
Mental health concerns have been rapidly rising for the past decade, particularly among the adolescent population. This was exacerbated by, and brought into focus during, the COVID-19 pandemic. In December 2021, the US Surgeon General issued recommendations to improve school-based efforts to expand evidence-based programs to increase recognition of mental health challenges, educate and empower youth about mental health, and promote access to high-quality mental health care (Office of Surgeon General, Protecting Youth Mental Health: The US Surgeon General Advisory). JFS, long known for its compassionate counseling services, listened and began working collaboratively with community stakeholders to identify strategies and action plans to build resilience in community and school-based settings.
In 2022, JFS joined a national discussion spearheaded by Jewish Federations of North America, to examine community needs and develop responses specific to the needs of adolescents and young adults. JFS convened a local Resiliency Roundtable to bring in voices of local stakeholders into the discussion. JFS was well poised for this undertaking as the provider of on-site mental health support services for two local private schools for the past 8 years, centered on providing group counseling to middle school and high school aged students, and one-on-one supports for all ages as requested.
Through the guidance of the roundtables, JFS piloted various modalities, evaluated efficacy, and developed an action plan that directly addresses increased awareness, identification, and direct intervention to help adolescents address warning signs of, and navigate, mental health issues to move forward successfully. The work we are doing is cultivating PREresilience within the community by empowering teens to help themselves and their peers. It is also cultivating resilience by engaging stakeholders in response to the mental health crisis. We are allowing the client’s needs and industry trends to dictate where we need to focus and meet these needs as best we can.
This effort will be part of a larger community discussion facilitated by the United Way of the Greater Capital Region, disseminate and share best practices, and have a broader impact on the community. Additionally, this role will be critical to learn from others and develop a larger community response to the needs of the Capital Region youth.
Description:
JFS is seeking a motivated professional with experience in behavioral health, sociology, and/or psychology, who encompasses strong interpersonal skills. The program coordinator position will oversee an agency program aimed at improving mental health related concerns amongst youth and teens.
The desired applicant should have confidence networking with community agencies, stakeholders, and schools to advocate for increased awareness of mental health related challenges amongst youth, ages 12-21.
The applicant should possess comfort in engagement with both youth and community leaders, along with providing clinical related services to clients, including groups, trainings, and individual counseling.
Responsibilities:
- Work with schools, camps and youth groups on integrating PREsilience programming, including teen and youth Mental Health First Aid (MHFA).
- Provide Support Groups to connect teens with shared experiences in a safe space to process emotions and reinforce skills to move forward.
- Provide Individual Counseling in person and via telehealth.
- Expand community participation in Roundtable discussions to ensure that all stakeholders are represented.
Qualifications:
- Proficient with Microsoft Office 365, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Zoom
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Ability to collaborate well with team members, outside agencies, and service providers
- Valid New York State driver’s license with reliable, personal transportation
- Ability to travel throughout the greater Capital Region, as needed.
How to apply:
Interested candidates should send cover letter and resume to Jane Ginsburg, President & CEO, jginsburg@jfsneny.org or call 518-516-1101.