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.

Wellness Advocate

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 the general supervision of program manager, outreach, assess and engage members for FSP services. Assist individuals in finding and accessing requested services through the application of intensive case management services. Assist members in transitioning to appropriate levels of care or services as needed on the bases on psychosocial rehabilitation model of treatment and services.

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

• Provides direct services to program members experiencing mental health barriers, supporting them in achieving their recovery goals in areas such as mental wellness, physical wellbeing, housing, employment, education, social support, etc. Services are provided in the community, from program office, and/or remotely.
• Provide targeted case management to connect members with needed resources, including but not limited to housing, employment, education, legal services, food, benefits, etc.
• Provide individual rehabilitation services in support of skill development including positive coping strategies and independent living skills such as money management, hygiene, meal preparation, and transportation.
• Provide group services as needed to facilitate member development of coping and independent living skills.
• Assesses members’ needs and facilitates creation of a Recovery Plan to guide services.
• 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
• Collaborates with multi-disciplinary team in coordinating services for members.
• Document services in agency’s Electronic Health Record, following L.A. County Department of Mental Health and MHALA policies. Complete paperwork as assigned, including data entry for admissions, discharge, Recovery Plans (Client Treatment Plans), financial eligibility inquiries, etc.
• Must meet billing quota of member services as assigned by supervisor. Responsible for entering outcomes into Electronic Health Record per program funder requirements.
• Participates in staff and community meetings and in the day-to day operations of the program as needed.
• Maintain understating of HIPAA regulations and complies with these regulations when working with members

Position Requirements:

• Knowledge of community resources and able to navigate these systems.
• Knowledgeable in the practice of motivational interviewing and harm reduction
• High school diploma or GED required. Bachelor degree in a human service or related field preferred.
• At least one year of experience providing psychosocial rehab related services to a disabled population
• Driving with current class C driver’s license, a vehicle for transportation, proof of valid automobile insurance, the ability to be insured by MHALA liability insurance are conditions of employment
• Ability to provide a welcoming environment and skill in engaging new members
• Must possess a high level of empathy, patience and understanding for individuals who present for services with urgent multiple needs. Must be able to think creatively about how best to support individuals overcome mental health barriers and achieve quality of life.
• 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
• TB clearance and re-testing every year are conditions of continued employment
• 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 with proof of a legal exemption.