Overview
University Settlement is one of New York City’s most dynamic social justice institutions, with an impressive legacy as the first settlement house in the nation. For 135 years, University Settlement has been an anchor in the low-income and immigrant communities where we work, offering pioneering programs in early childhood care and education, youth development, eviction prevention, literacy, theater and visual arts, senior services, and mental health. Each year, we engage over 40,000 New Yorkers through our network of 32 sites in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Our mission is to empower residents by building on their strengths through comprehensive, quality services that meet the current needs of the community; innovation that anticipates future needs; and advocacy to improve the community as a whole.
University Settlements flexible multi-tiered Mental Health Initiative will address the current mental health needs of older adults. Through the multi-tiered, multi-directional approach, the Settlement seeks to increase awareness, provide psychoeducation, mental health counseling and support groups for older adults who walk through University Settlements doors at various points of entry.
Responsibilities:
- Introduce older adults to light touch mental health courses and activities by offering monthly special events focusing on mental and emotional health open to all seniors and aimed towards positive social participation and positive mental health
- Coordinate special outreach efforts to engage individuals identified as needing mental health support through screening assessments
- Initiate follow up with identified individuals to ensure that they are connected to resources and support they need
- Work with older adults through closed group work and theme-based groups. The groups will aim to reduce mental health related symptoms in older adults, and increase their coping strategies for dealing with mental health issues
- Provide scheduled, on site, individual mental health counseling services in a community based setting, work with the individual to increase emotional well-being
- Guide participants through the intake and assessment process at the University Settlement Mental Health Clinic, working in collaboration with Program and Mental Health Clinic staff, work to transition and engage participants into treatment planning and clinical supports to address mental health needs.
- Work with the Program Director and Social Worker in gathering and analyzing data for reporting
- Perform other tasks consistent with this job description as assigned by the Supervisor
Qualifications:
- Master of Social Work required
- New York State Social Work License (LMSW) preferred
- One to two years of post master experience in a mental health setting
- Must speak, read, and write one of the following : Ukrainian, Russian, Polish, Cantonese, or Mandarin
- Excellent communication skills
- Prior experience working with older adults and knowledge of gerontology preferred
- Knowledgeable of mental health resources in Lower Manhattan
Work Schedule: Part time, Flexible work schedule, 7 hours per week
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive community. We support a broadly diverse team who will contribute to our organization. We are an equal employment opportunity for all regardless of race, color, citizenship, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran or reservist status, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.