Washington, DC—The District of Columbia Department of Mental Health is hosting a meeting for self-identified current or former users of public mental health services interested in part-time employment as a transition specialist. The meeting is 2 pm to 4 pm, Tuesday, September 4, 2012, at 609 H Street NE, Room 402.  Family members who have cared for someone with a mental health disorder also are encouraged to apply.

The primary responsibility of a transitional specialist is to offer peer support to individuals in care at Saint Elizabeths Hospital before and after discharge. The transition specialist must be able to demonstrate and model effective recovery techniques, including the importance of self-care.  Working with a treatment team, the transitional specialist supports independence and community integration by helping to build coping and community adjustment skills, including money management and social networking.

An applicant must have a high school diploma, GED or equivalent, and prior work or volunteer experience. Other requirements:

• Able to establish trusting relationships with individuals with mental health or mental health and other co-occurring conditions such as substance abuse
• Able to work independently and as a member of a team
• Able to work evenings and weekends, if necessary
• Demonstrated proficiency in reading and writing
• Able to perform administrative duties as needed 

The maximum employment is 20 hours per week.  For more information contact Vivi Smith, Director, Office of Consumer and Family Affairs at [email protected] or (202) 673-4377.