Human Services Advocate

Do you have a passion for advocacy?

Looking for an exciting opportunity to make a real impact?

Join us and be part of a revolutionary team shaping the future!

Whiting Forensic Hospital (WFH), under the umbrella of the State of Connecticut, Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) is seeking a qualified individual for the position of Human Services Advocate (PCN 136226) to join our team. This position will be supporting Patient Advocacy within our forensic hospital. Find out more information on this great opportunity below!

POSITION HIGHLIGHTS:

• Work Schedule: Sunday - Thursday
• Work Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week
• Work Shift: First shift, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Location: 70 O'Brien Drive, Middletown, CT

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU:

State of Connecticut employees participate in a competitive comprehensive benefits plan that includes:

• A Platinum Healthcare Plan, the nation’s best for state employees and dependents, according to a report by Georgetown’s Center on Health Insurance Reform and article by Ellen Andrews, Ph.D
• Generous paid time off, include 13 paid holidays per calendar year
• Extensive pension plan and supplemental retirement offerings
• Retirement healthcare offerings
• Professional growth and development opportunities
• State of Connecticut is an eligible Public Service Loan Forgiveness employer, meaning you may be eligible to have qualifying student loans forgiven after 10 years of service. Click here for more information.
• A healthy work/life balance!

You'd be able to work for a Forbes top company: 'Forbes' State of Connecticut Ranked One of the Best Employers of 2023 - State of CT Receives National Recognition for Offering Job Growth, Competitive Benefits, and Flexible Schedule.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING:

• Investigating and resolving patient complaints and grievances.
• Interviewing patients regarding allegations of abuse.
• Conducting groups regarding patient skills enhancements such as patient rights and patient empowerment.
• Meeting individually with patients to assist in their recovery.
• Ensuring patients’ rights are protected.
• Maintaining confidential patient files documenting advocacy services provided.
• Preparing reports summarizing patient interviews.
• Coordinating services with agencies external to DMHAS.
• Attending weekly and monthly meetings regarding Patient Advocacy such as Patient Steering Committee.

MORE ABOUT THE AGENCY AND FACILITIES:

The State of Connecticut, Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), is a health care agency whose mission is to promote the overall health and wellness of persons with behavioral health needs through an integrated network of holistic, comprehensive, effective, and efficient services and supports that foster dignity, respect, and self-sufficiency in those we serve.

Whiting Forensic Hospital provides high quality, comprehensive, and individualized treatment and evaluation services for patients with mental health conditions who are involved in the criminal justice system or are not yet ready to be safely treated in less restrictive settings. This is accomplished with full respect for the civil and human rights of each patient. Our goal is to assist individuals to manage their illnesses and achieve personal recovery goals through developing the skills necessary to live safely in the community.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - GENERAL EXPERIENCE

Six (6) years of professional experience in a public or private agency or organization providing services to individuals with disabilities or to children.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - SPECIAL EXPERIENCE

One (1) year of the General Experience must have been in the provision of advocacy or direct services to individuals with disabilities or to children.

NOTE: Advocacy services are defined as speaking and working on behalf of a position, cause, or individual to further interests and ensure the preservation of rights.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - SUBSTITUTIONS ALLOWED

• College training may be substituted for the General Experience on the basis of fifteen (15) semester hours equalling one-half (1/2) year of experience to a maximum of four (4) years for a Bachelor's degree.
• Successful completion of a Connecticut Careers Trainee program approved by the Department of Administrative Services may be substituted for the General Experience and Special Experience.

Visit our website to apply today: https://www.jobapscloud.com/CT/sup/bulpreview.asp?b=&R1=240424&R2=1419SH&R3=001