Mental Health Outreach Engagement and Promotion Specialist Job at Mental Health

Mental Health America of Los Angeles (MHALA) has been a pioneer in mental health service, advocacy, innovation, and training for nearly a century, working to ensure that people with mental health needs achieve meaningful, healthy lives in their communities.

MHALA is among the largest and most comprehensive nonprofit mental health agencies in Los Angeles County. The agency supports over 19,000 low-income and no-income individuals annually with integrated services. MHALA achieves impact in the areas of mental and physical healthcare, homelessness and housing, supported employment, and wellness and financial services, with special programs for Veterans and transition-age youth.

MHALA also provides training programs for individuals joining the behavioral health workforce and for the larger community around mental health issues.

MHALA works to ensure that its employees are just as cared for as its members. Communication, collaboration, transparency and a healthy work/life balance are core components of the agency culture. Employees are encouraged to engage in self-care and can enjoy a 35-hour workweek.

MHALA fosters diversity at all levels of the organization. The agency promotes a team-oriented culture that offers opportunities for growth. We are proud to offer a competitive salary and full benefits package, including an employee assistance program, and generous paid time off.

Community Mental Health Promoter

35 hours per week / $24.00 per hour

(The actual compensation will be determined based on experience and other factors permitted by law.)

Summary: United Mental Health Promoters (UMHP) project is a community outreach and empowerment effort, which serves to strengthen communities. The project will utilize evidenced based outreach and engagement, education and awareness practices to reduce barriers to care and develop a supportive network.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: This is not an exhaustive task list, and other duties may be assigned as deemed appropriate or necessary by the supervisor or program director. Reasonable accommodation will be provided to any qualified person with a medical or psychiatric disability, providing it will not change the essential nature of the position, nor cause undue hardship to the Agency’s operations. MHALA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider. The agency will consider individuals with a criminal history in accordance with both the Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers (FCO) and the California Fair Chance Act (FCA).

• Conduct outreach and engagement within the community, to create community awareness and educational opportunities on the impact & development of mental illness
• Create and implement in-person activities, events and workshops to engage and outreach target population
• Recruit and conduct Community Resiliency Model workshops
• Provide training and informational events focused to support recovery related COVID-19 and other natural, manmade, or hybrid disasters linked to trauma
• Provide individual and community advocacy
• Facilitate educational groups such as community psychoeducation
• Provide trauma-informed activities such as art therapy, mindfulness, healing gardens, etc.
• Help to establish and maintain community led groups (peer-to-peer support)
• Implement a trauma informed approach, to include empathy and compassion
• Provide linkage and support to community members via community events and/or one-on-one
• Document all activities, service plans and input data on a regular basis into EHR
• Attend regular staff meetings, DMH required (meetings/trainings) as well as community meetings

Position Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED with one year of experience providing psychosocial rehab related services to homeless and/or disabled population
• Must exhibit good personal judgment, a non-bias attitude, sensitivity, and discretion when dealing with others
• Applicants with lived experience of homelessness, mental health concerns, or substance use desirable
• Driving with current class C driver’s license, a vehicle for transportation, proof of valid automobile insurance, the ability to be insured by MHA liability insurance are conditions of employment
• Ability to provide a welcoming environment and skill in engaging new members
• Must possess a high level of tolerance, patience and understanding for individuals who present for services with urgent multiple needs, issues and problematic behavioral characteristics
• Must be sensitive to racial, cultural, ethnic, or other community-based concerns that cause barriers to care
• Must have excellent communication skills.
• Must be able to juggle multiple tasks without losing productivity
• Must function well in a team-oriented approach to member services
• Knowledgeable in computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel Outlook
• Knowledge of social media, such as Facebook and Instagram, desirable
• TB clearance and re-testing every year are conditions of continued employment
• Must function well in a team-oriented approach to member services and fast-paced environment
• Must be able to maintain an empathetic view for individuals in severe need and be able to juggle a variety of barriers that keep individuals from successful personal and community living
• Knowledge and practical application of motivational interviewing and harm reduction desired
• Knowledge of juvenile justice systems, court systems, and foster care highly desirable
• Flexible work schedule to include some evenings or weekends, and on call cell phone services when necessary
• Spanish speaking a plus, but not required
• COVID vaccination is required for this position. Accommodations will be considered with proof of a legal exemption.