Coordinates services, information, and support from community-based providers as clients transition to independent living. Coordinates with clients, their families and the agency staff to determine if client’s needs and human rights are met in a residential facility or community program of a state agency. Develops recommendations to address individual problems for a program/facility.
Employees in this class serve clients who are institutionalized, incarcerated, and/or seeking social services in preparation for transition to more independent and/or stable living. Employees in this class may supervise other Client Advocates.
Evaluates clients’ medical, vocational and personal information. Manages assigned caseload including maintaining case files and responding to correspondence and telephone inquiries. Interviews client, family and any service providers serving the client to assess the client's level of functioning, ego strengths and deficits and emotional status. Develops a comprehensive evaluation of the client's service and treatment needs. Coordinates, evaluates and directs the development and implementation of special training programs for clients and staff. Monitors and evaluates performance to assure policy and program standards are met and goals are achieved. Makes recommendations on strategies for correcting problem areas. Intercedes and advocates on behalf of clients to ensure appropriate, timely and consistent services. Interviews, interprets and evaluates clients, family, and staff to determine program adequacy and effectiveness. Procures and/or requisitions services for clients. Serves as a member of the treatment team in the diagnostic evaluation of clients and the identification of treatment objectives. Develops and implements in-service training programs for staff. Informs public of services rendered and rights and benefits of potential clients. Prepares records of client assessments. Monitors interagency efforts to secure services appropriate to client needs. Serves as agency contact with external advocacy systems and programs. Participates in human rights committee meetings in each facility to coordinate development of procedures consistent for all agency facilities. Represents agency at state or regional meetings on advocacy and client/consumer affairs.
Thorough knowledge of agency organization, community resources, and public assistance programs. Knowledge of federal, state and local laws or regulations pertaining to social service programs. Ability to conduct interviews and surveys. Ability to conduct detailed investigations, draw conclusions and recommend action required. Ability to initiate effective relationships with clients, their family, and personnel from various agencies and external advocacy agencies. Ability to communicate effectively. Ability to organize and maintain a caseload. Ability to exercise discretion in interpreting and applying established objectives. Ability to supervise the work of subordinates.
Some positions may require special certification (i.e. Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) or National Certified Peer Specialist (NCPS) Certification)
A bachelor's degree and professional experience in human services or social services programs.