OC FSP HFW Youth Peer Specialist

PROGRAM SUMMARY

Beginning July of 2026, all Behavioral Health Plans in California will be required to implement High-Fidelity Wraparound (HFW) to fidelity under the Full Service Partnership (FSP) program. All FSPs for children and youth must align with the principles, values, and standards of the HFW model.

HFW provides a comprehensive, holistic, evidence-based, child/youth and family-driven process for responding when children and youth experience significant mental health or behavioral challenges, including children and youth involved in multiple child/youth serving systems. HFW is a team-based and family-centered evidence-based practice that includes an "anything necessary" approach to care for children and youth with the most intensive mental health or behavioral challenges.

The HFW model combines a team-based case management and facilitation approach with individualized and community-based mental health services and supports tailored to meet the individualized needs of the child/youth and family.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Youth Peer Specialist serves as a peer ally and mentor to children and youth receiving Wraparound services. Drawing from their lived experience in systems such as child welfare, behavioral health, and juvenile justice, the Youth Partner offers authentic support, fosters trust, and champions the voice and choices of the child/youth (referred to as “youth” in this document). They are a symbol of resilience and hope, modeling the possibility of healing and success.

Unlike the Family Specialist, whose role is focused on behavior strategies and skill building, the Youth Peer Specialist prioritizes emotional support, peer connection, and advocacy. Throughout the Wraparound process, the Youth Peer Specialist advocates to ensure the youth’s lived experience is recognized, their voice is heard, and their autonomy is respected.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Education/Experience
• Lived experience in child-serving systems as a minor/youth
• Commitment to practice cultural respectfulness and relevance
• Strong peer engagement and communication skills
• Able to maintain healthy boundaries while building trust
• Self-aware, resilient, and a collaborative team member

Licensure, Registration, Certification

• Valid CA driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance.
• Completion of CPR/First Aid/ProACT certification within the first thirty (30) days of employment
• CMPSS preferred

Preferred Training/Experience in one or all of the following Evidenced Based Practices:

• High Fidelity Wraparound (HFW)
• Intensive Case Management (ICM)