Peer Specialist – Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT)

Overview:

WJCS is currently seeking two full-time Peer Specialists to work in our Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT), in Greenburgh/White Plains. Under the general supervision of the Program Director and the team’s Licensed Clinicians, the Peer Specialist will bring their expertise through sharing their lived experiences to engage clients and serve as an ally and mentor for clients of all ages and situations as they contend with difficulties and uncertainties surrounding their mental health crisis. The Peer Specialist will forge relationships with their team, community providers and will represent the voice of the client, when necessary, within the team or broader setting.

Our Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT) operates out of Greenburgh, NY and supports Westchester County’s Project Alliance by delivering mobile crisis interventions in conjunction with the Greenburgh, White Plains and Scarsdale police departments.  In this role, you will work closely with a Licensed Clinician to co-respond alongside local police, making an immediate impact in these community.

In addition to a competitive salary of $50,000, you will receive specialized training and ongoing supervision from Licensed Clinicians. Must be willing to become Peer Specialist certified; Current Peer and CRPA Certification is a plus

Schedule options are as follows but *may* be slightly shifted to accommodate the needs of the catchment area police. Shifts reflect a 35-hour work week, excluding breaks:

• 8/9:00am-5:00/6 pm with one evening (2pm-10pm) and occasional weekend shifts
• 2pm-10pm with one 9:00/8am-5:00/6pm shift and occasional weekend coverage
• Coverage of 3 agency holidays (your preferences are strongly considered)

-or-

• Three 12-hour shifts (9am – 10pm, subject to slight shift, as above)

Responsibilities:

As a valued member of our team, your responsibilities will include (but are not limited to):

• Collaborating closely with Police and EMS, Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health (DCMH), 988, to deliver services to individuals who are in mental health crisis. This includes de-escalation, risk assessment and making referral to help clients live safely and prevent future crisis.
• Being a part of our cohesive team comprised of licensed clinicians, Peer Specialists, student intern and administrative assistant.
• Following-up with clients, typically up to 2 weeks after crisis response, with the aim to link client to appropriate services.
• Co-responding to mental health crisis with an MCRT licensed clinician and local police

Requirements:
We are seeking candidates who possess the following qualifications:

• State Peer Certification or Provisional Certification as a Peer Specialist/CRPA, or willingness to complete certification process in a capped time
• Minimum of 2 years of active participation in mental health, self-help activities, peer support, or peer advocacy programs, or similar experiences (preferred)
• Bilingual (Spanish-English) candidates are encouraged to apply
• Must possess a valid driver’s license
• Willingness to be flexible to work in a team to address mental health crises alongside local police
• Solid team focus and flexibility, in keeping with WJCS MCRT’s positive and supportive environment
• Strong work ethic – must work well in team and independently, plus across systems

What WJCS has to offer you:

In addition to meaningful work and a supportive team environment, we offer a competitive benefits package including:

• Generous paid time off
• Comprehensive Health Benefits, flexible spending (FSA) and a generous Healthcare Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
• 403(b) Plan and Agency-Paid Pension Plan
• Training and ongoing supervision by will be provided

Why join Westchester Jewish Community Services?

Founded in 1943, WJCS provides a vast range of supportive community services each year to 20,000 people of all ages and backgrounds. Across every division, WJCS employees are connected by their shared values and commitment to helping those in need.

We are dedicated to ensuring dignity and respect for all employees in an inclusive and safe environment that values diversity, experience, and merit. We are committed to racial justice and equal opportunity, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, class, ability, sexual orientation, and gender identity differences—for employment, professional development, and advancement for qualified individuals.

WJCS INC. IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER