Community Health Worker, Psychiatry Research (per diem)

Position: Community Health Worker, Psychiatry Research

STEPPS – Behavioral Health Coaching for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Location: Boston, MA

Schedule: Per-diem, Hybrid

ABOUT BMC:

At Boston Medical Center (BMC), our diverse staff works together for one goal — to provide exceptional and equitable care to improve the health of the people of Boston. Our bold vision to transform health care is powered by our respect for our patients and our commitment to ensure everyone who comes through our doors has a positive experience.

You’ll find a supportive work environment at BMC, with rich opportunities throughout your career for training, development, and growth and where you’ll have the tools you need to take charge of your own practice environment.  

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the supervision of the Dr. Sarah Valentine, the Community Health Worker (CHW) will support an NIMH-funded study entitled, “Stepped Care for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Study” (STEPPS) which aims to develop a stepped care treatment model for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at Boston Medical Center. 

The CHW will be responsible for providing telehealth coaching for a brief online PTSD treatment program, called web-administered Skills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Regulation (webSTAIR). WebSTAIR educates patients about trauma and related mental health symptoms, and teaches patients skills to manage their emotions and improve relationships. The webSTAIR program will be provided in English and Spanish. 

The CHW will receive training in motivational interviewing, cognitive and behavioral techniques, and approaches to enhance engagement in treatment programs. CHWs will receive receive ongoing case consultation on coaching visits from Dr. Marylene Cloitre, the psychologist who developed webSTAIR and a leading expert in the field. CHWs will also receive professional development support from a CHW supervisor/expert outside of the study which will provide an opportunity for the CHW to reflect on their experience with providing trauma focused mental health supports and connect with other CHWs.   

This is a hybrid position. The CHW will mostly work remotely but may occasionally work on-site to assist with in-person research activities and coordination.   Generally the work schedule will be Monday through Friday though some evenings and weekends may be required depending on specific patient needs.  

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Must adhere to all of BMC’s RESPECT behavioral standards.

• Demonstrates sensitivity and respect for the culture of the participant. 

• Functions a key member of an inter-disciplinary team (social workers, behavioral health clinicians, clinical support staff, etc.) 

• Provides coaching and support, including outreach to and engagement with study participants to define ind