Mental Health Advocate

The Child and Youth Advocacy Center is hiring a Mental Health Advocate. This position will provide trauma-focused therapy for children who have experienced traumatic events and their non‑offending family caregivers. Services include crisis intervention, clinical assessments and trauma-focused treatment, comprehensive case management, intake appointments and team-based coordination. The role also supports Family Advocacy for clients who have pre‑existing mental health services outside CYAC, providing trauma-informed support, completing intakes and coordinating referrals.

CYAC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. CYAC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, or ability.

Master’s degree in social work, counseling, psychology or other related field, or willingness to obtain within the first year of employment. Licensure as an LCSW or LPC is required, or license‑eligible with supervision available. Experience with children of all ages and developmental levels who have experienced trauma (sexual abuse, severe physical abuse, witnessing violence, problematic sexual behavior) is preferred. Understanding of trauma‑informed practice, family systems, and community resource knowledge is preferred.

Deep commitment to child welfare and trauma-informed care, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced multidisciplinary environment, emotional resilience, strong self‑care practices, cultural sensitivity and awareness, flexibility, and willingness to support organizational needs beyond direct client service.

• Provide outpatient therapy using evidence based/informed modalities (e.g., TF‑CBT, CFTSI, CCPT, expressive therapies; training will be provided) to children and non‑offending family members to attain treatment goals.
• Participate in team-based outreach for new referrals to determine initial treatment needs and recommend caregivers.
• Conduct initial intake sessions using trauma assessment measures to identify trauma‑related symptoms, coping skills, referral needs, caregiver protective factors, and preliminary DSM‑5 diagnoses.
• Provide crisis intervention for children who have experienced trauma and their non‑offending family members as needed for active caseload clients.
• Provide case management services including maintenance of electronic health records, online appointment scheduling, ongoing contact with caregivers and professionals, court testimony when requested, and referrals to community resources as needed.
• Provide ongoing research, development and implementation of therapeutic interventions for children who have experienced trauma and their families.
• Participate in a team‑based approach with CYAC staff and multidisciplinary partners.
• Provide Family Advocacy Services for clients not needing mental health services at CYAC.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

$41,000-$50,000 depending on experience.

• IRA Matching Program
• Health and Dental Insurance
• Paid Time Off
  • Earned and State Holidays
• Paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
• Sabbatical Offering

Primarily in person; some remote work available.

Meaningful work that directly impacts children’s lives and healing. Collaborative, supportive work environment. Professional development opportunities. Comprehensive training in evidence‑based practices. Opportunity to be part of a mission‑driven organization.