Media Contact:  Phyllis Jones
(202) 673.1937 desk
(202) 631.3077 mobile     
                                         
The deadline for submitting an application for a transitional specialist position at the District of Columbia Department of Mental Health is Wednesday, August 24, 2011. Self-identified current or former users of public mental health services or family members who have cared for someone with a mental health illness are encouraged to apply.

The Department of Mental Health is holding an informational meeting at 2 pm, Wednesday, August 24, 2011, in Conference Room B, 4th Floor, 64 New York Avenue NE, for people interested in applying for the part-time position. 

The primary role of a transitional Specialist is to offer peer support to people at Saint Elizabeths Hospital and in community based programs throughout the recovery process. Acting as an advocate, role model, and mentor, the transitional specialist helps build coping and community adjustment skills, including money management and social networking, which support independence and community integration.

Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and should have completed a peer related recovery course, such as WRAP or BRIDGES, within the last calendar year.  Other requirements:

• Able to establish trusting relationships with individuals with mental health or mental health and other co-occurring conditions such as substance abuse
• Full or part time paid or voluntary work experience (not necessarily consecutive)
• 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

Resumes along with two letters of reference must be submitted by close of business, Wednesday August 24, 2011. For more information, contact Alvin Hinkle, Chief of Continuity of Care, at (202) 741-0822 or [email protected], or Vivi Smith, Director of the Office of Consumer and Family Affairs, at (202) 673-4377 or [email protected].