START Family Mentor, Behavioral Health

Nature of Work:

Function as a non-clinical, peer-based individual who engages, educates and supports an individual to make life changes necessary to recover from disabling mental illness and/or substance use disorder conditions. Works closely with the Maryland Department of Health Behavioral Health Administration Local Addiction Authority, Maryland Department of Human Services, Local Department of Social Services child welfare staff, and community substance misuse providers as a member of the Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Team (START).

Activities are educational and coaching in nature. A key element that enhances and distinguishes this position is that the candidate appropriately highlights their personal experience in recovery. As part of a team, works with pregnant women and women with children with Opioid Use Disorder achieving recovery by accessing Medication Assisted Treatment.

Take the lead on recovery coaching for the parent and other family members and on contact with the substance use disorder treatment provider. Provide specialized engagement of parents to build parenting capacity, ensure access to and retention in treatment and enhance sobriety and participation in ongoing recovery supports. Work with the entire family as a coach and guide to child safety, adult recovery and family well-being. Family mentors are paired with a Child Protective Services worker and share caseloads of 12 to 15 families. This special pairing allows for intensive case management and intensive efforts to engage parents and caregivers. Serves as a bridge between the birth family and the child welfare and treatment agencies, reducing the parent’s sense of being alone, and providing hope and role models for recovery.

Experience:

• At least two years of sustained and successful recovery from substances and have been a part of recovery-based support systems (i.e., 12-step community, Celebrate Recovery, faith-based recovery supports, etc.)
• Experiences with the Child Welfare System that sensitizes them to the needs of families and children
• If an individual had a previous child welfare case, the individual’s case must be closed for at least a year to be considered
• Experience working with individuals with substance use disorders
• Strong desire to support individuals challenged with substance use disorders
• Knowledge of principles, procedures and methods for behavioral and/or substance use rehabilitation; help individuals develop unique sobriety approaches
• Working knowledge of Microsoft applications
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate in both written and oral form in a satisfactory manner including but not limited to the use of assertive communication
• If not already certified, will complete Certified Peer Recovery credentials within 18 months of hire
• Ability to use a productive problem-solving approach
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

Desired or Preferred Qualifications:

Certified Peer Recovery credentials

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications can apply. Send a completed County application or resume to: 

Human Resources   
3 Harry S. Truman Parkway   
Annapolis, MD 21401 

Fax to 410-222-4392 or email hdrecruiter@aacounty.org.