HIV Early Intervention Counselor

Job description

MISSION STATEMENT
Are you ready to give back to the community while pursuing your passion? For over 50 years, Acacia Network and its affiliates have been committed to improving the quality-of-life and wellbeing of underserved communities in New York City and beyond. We are one of the leading human services organizations in New York City and the largest Hispanic-led nonprofit in the State, serving over 150,000 individuals every year. Our programs serve individuals at every age and developmental level, from the very young through our daycare programs to mature adults through our older adults centers. Our extensive array of community-based services are fully integrated, bilingual and culturally competent.
POSITION OVERVIEW
Provide HIV counseling, testing, referral services, and education session to patients receiving services in the integrated outpatient treatment programs.
KEY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
• Conduct screening and intake with patients presenting for HIV Counseling and/or Testing within the integrated outpatient treatment program.
• HIV Pre and Post Test counseling.
• Conduct oral and/or intravenous blood testing for the detection of HIV antibodies, if necessary.
• Provide information and referrals services to HIV positive individuals and high risk negatives.
• Conduct an assessment of client’s needs and personal support system.
• Work with staff to coordinate for individuals testing positive for HIV.
• Provide necessary referrals to HIV primary medical care, behavioral health services and support services.
• Provide group HIV education and group awareness sessions.
• Enter patient service data into the electronic health record.
• Work with the Program Director to submit required data and grant reports.
• Maintain and cultivate referral relationship with health and human service providers in the area.
• Conduct Quality Improvement Project for HIV Early Intervention Services.

REQUIREMENTS
• NYS HIV Pre and Post Test Counseling Certification and/or Certified Prevention Specialist Certification.
• Experience in drawing blood preferred.
• Two (2) to five (5) years of experience in HIV/AIDS field.
• One (1) year of individual and group counseling experience in a social service environment, particularly in HIV/AIDS related services.
• Bilingual: Spanish strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of HIV/AIDS and sensitive to the needs of HIV+ individuals and those at high risk of infection.
• Aware of the varying cultures and ethnic diversity of minority communities, particularly in Hispanic cultures.
• Understanding of issues experienced by active and recovering substance abusers.
• Bachelor degree preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational and communications skills.
• Must be able to work in multi-tasked environment.

WHY JOIN US?
Acacia Network provides a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. In addition to a competitive salary, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage. We also offer generous paid time off, including vacation days and paid holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance. We prioritize the well-being of our employees both professionally and personally.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.