Basic Function/Overall Responsibilities :

The Parent Support Advocate is responsible for providing outreach, support, and advocacy to caregivers and families of youth in care. The Parent Support Advocate acts as a liaison between families and treatment providers. Through identification of family needs and strengths, the Parent Support Advocate will work with a multidisciplinary treatment team to support the efforts of family-driven care and empower families/caregivers to become an active participant and decision maker in the treatment process.

Principal Assigned Responsibilities :

Utilize "lived experience" to support and empower families/caregivers through treatment process. Act as a liaison between families/caregivers and treatment team members by helping providers identify family needs via strengths based and family-driven treatment approaches. Provide families and caregivers with emotional support through face to face and phone contacts. Assist family/caregivers in understanding the roles of treatment providers and navigating systems and services. Work with families/caregivers to identify and connect with supportive services/resources in their home community. Empower families/caregivers to advocate for service needs and become involved in decision making/treatment processes. Identify parenting skills that need to be developed. Develop these skills through education and modeling of skills. Develop and co-facilitate parent/caregiver support groups.

Education and Experience Requirements :

Bachelor's degree, preferably in human services or a related field, required for positions with Uniform Case Record (UCR) documentation responsibilities. Minimum of one-year successful human service experience in a behavioral health setting, preferably working with children. Case Management experience preferred.

Required Knowledge, Skill, Abilities and Competencies :

Commitment to the following and embracing the Seven Commitments of our Sanctuary. Ability to engage in collaborative working relationships with agency staff and service providers in children's home communities. Ability to work independently and confidently in various communities. Understanding of basic needs and developmental issues of children in a way that respects individuality. Demonstrate knowledge of behavioral treatment, social skills and age-appropriate developmental milestones of youth. Demonstrate the ability to form effective relationships with youth and families. Strong written, verbal, and organizational skills. Practices infection control, including appropriate hand washing procedures. Valid New York State driver's license. Equal Opportunity Employer The House of the Good Shepherd is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. HGS encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities, including people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and those with disabilities. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access throughout the hiring process.