Case Manager And Coach Advocate For Young Adult Homeless 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.

Personal Service Coordinator

35 hours per week / $24.00 per hour

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

Summary: Under direct supervision, serves as the primary support and case manager for young adults between the ages of 18-25 whom are experiencing mental illness, to support them in transitioning into adulthood by helping them achieve their quality of life goals including, but not limited to stable place to live, employment, education, and relationships.

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 Agencys operations. MHALA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider. The Agency will consider individuals with a criminal history.

• Develop a Recovery Plan and/or Personal Service Plan with each member that identifies his/her personal needs and goals.

• Provide clinical services within scope of practice of degree, including assessments, diagnosis, and individual and group therapy.

• Mediate and advocate on behalf of the member to help him/her obtain and keep housing, health care benefits, entitlements etc.

• Visit members in their place of residence, hospital or jail on an as-needed basis, in order to help them live successfully and to prevent them from becoming homeless.

• Transport members to appointments and on errands when appropriate.

• Oversee and monitor members individual and group activities both inside the program and out in the community.

• Provide coaching, counseling, mentoring, instruction, training, feedback and positive reinforcement for members in areas such as money management, grooming and hygiene, meal preparation, public transportation and other independent living skills.

• Devise and implement strategies for outreach to members who tend to isolate themselves.

• Knowledge of community resources, housing, social security and general relief systems and ability to navigate within these systems.

• Knowledgeable and practices in motivational interviewing and harm reduction.

• Assist members in achieving community integration and employment goals.

• Participate in staff and community meetings and in the day-to-day operations of the program as needed.

• Required to meet the monthly billing requirements 100 hours and enter notes into the Electronic Health Record within 24 business hour period.

• Maintains all records and documentation needed for program compliance and accountability in accordance with MHALA standards and funding source requirements including but not limited to recovery plans, progress notes, assessments, and outcome measurements.

• Maintain understating of HIPAA regulations and complies with these regulations when working with members.

Position Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED required.

• One year of experience providing psychosocial rehab related services to a disabled population.

• Bachelor degree in a human service or related field preferred.

• Driving with current class C drivers 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 have good basic English writing skills, good basic computer skills and be highly organized. Must have excellent communication skills.

• Must be able to have the ability 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 and Outlook.

• Must possess a high level of patience and tolerance for a work atmosphere that is very busy and highly unstructured.

• 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.

• Knowledgeable in computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.

• Must be able to maintain an empathetic view for the dilemma of individuals in severe need and be able to juggle creatively and successfully around a variety of barriers that keep individuals from successful personal and community living.

• 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 upon proof of a legal exemption.