Mental Health Advocate

Work Unit Overview: Madison County Public Health Departments mission is to protect and promote the health of county citizens and the environment through the efforts of dedicated and skilled employees and application of sound public health principles. The departments role is to identify community health problems; assess and investigate health problems and health hazards in the community; and enforce laws and regulations that protect health and ensure safety.

Job Summary: The Mental Health Advocate will support Madison County residents by providing education on mental health, offering community resources, and advocating for mental health awareness and services. While the role will not involve providing billable therapeutic services, the Mental Health Advocate will engage in community outreach, resource referrals, and advocacy for individuals and families dealing with mental health challenges. The Mental Health Advocate will also provide light case management services, promote available mental health resources, and support local efforts to improve community health. · Maintain confidentiality of all client-related records and sensitive information.
· Conduct outreach activities in the community, including schools, local agencies, and other
health providers.
· Gather and analyze information on community mental health needs and available resources.
· Plan and conduct educational programs on mental health awareness and substance abuse
prevention.
· Establish and lead community support groups for mental health.
· Act as an advocate for clients, helping them access the services they need or resolve urgent
concerns in crisis situations.
· Collaborate with other community organizations and mental health professionals to provide
clients with appropriate referrals and resources.
· Assist in developing and implementing community-based programs to improve mental health
outcomes and promote available resources.
· Serve as a liaison between clients, families, schools, probation officers, and law enforcement
to facilitate access to necessary mental health services.
· Provide guidance and support to clients in navigating the mental health system and connecting
with resources.
· Provide educational materials and resources on mental health topics to local organizations and
the public.
· Maintain records of outreach efforts, client interactions, and community involvement, ensuring
accurate documentation of activities.
· Prepare regular reports on community engagement, client referrals, and the impact of
educational programs.
· Participate in local advocacy efforts to improve access to mental health resources in the
community.
· Stay informed about new mental health developments through professional literature,
seminars, and networking with other social service agencies.
· Other duties as assigned..· A Masters degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field, is perferred.
· Experience in community mental health advocacy, resource referral, or case management.
· Familiarity with mental health resources, community services, and public health systems.
· Must maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant mental health practices and community
needs.
· Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed for outreach events or
community meetings.
Must maintain a drug-free and alcohol-free workplace and be free from chemical dependency throughout employment.
Ineligible for employment if found guilty of abuse, neglect, or mistreatment of individuals in a healthcare setting.
Must pass a background check.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of mental health issues, community resources, and public health principles, along with knowledge of advocacy strategies, resource referral processes, and case management practices. They should possess excellent communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills, and be able to work collaboratively with a diverse group of individuals and organizations. Empathy and cultural competence are essential when engaging with clients and community members, and the candidate must demonstrate strong organizational skills with the ability to maintain accurate and up-to-date records.