Peer Support Specialist

Job Summary: Certified Peer Specialists play a vital role in fostering recovery-oriented environments by utilizing their own lived experiences. They actively contribute to building supportive communities and empowering individuals through hope, personal responsibility, education, and self-determination.

General Accountabilities:

• Initiate and maintain mutual support and education groups to facilitate a sense of community and promote recovery.

• Facilitate discussions and dialogues on topics related to recovery and resilience, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

• Teach and demonstrate effective symptom management skills to help individuals better cope with their challenges.

• Teach and model problem-solving skills to empower individuals in overcoming obstacles and achieving their goals.

• Support individuals in their efforts to obtain and sustain paid employment, providing guidance and resources.

• Utilize the stages of recovery concept to encourage individuals' self-determination and active involvement in their own recovery journey.

• Assist peers in setting goals and providing ongoing support to ensure engagement in wellness and health-promoting activities.

• Conduct recovery-supportive groups to provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and receive support.

• Intervene in crisis situations, offering immediate support and assistance either in person or via phone.

• Process intake documents to ensure accurate and comprehensive information is collected.

• Maintain detailed case notes using the SIRP documentation format to track individual progress and support continuity of care.

• Conduct urine analysis (UA) tests when required and maintain proper documentation of results.

• Adhere to the CPS Code of Ethics as per DMH (Department of Mental Health) standards.

• Depending on the assigned department, additional office duties may be assigned as needed.

Note: The specific office duties may vary based on the department and organizational requirements.

Skills/Job Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.

• Experience: Possess one to two years of relevant experience.

• Certification: Hold a valid Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) certification.

• Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing Google Suite.

• Preferred Knowledge: Familiarity with Combat Connections (CCL) is highly desirable.

• Substance-Free Lifestyle: Maintain a minimum of six months to one year of abstaining from drugs and alcohol.

Skills:

• Active Listening: Ability to attentively listen to individuals and understand their perspectives and needs without judgment.

• Peer Support: Provide empathetic and non-judgmental support to peers based on personal lived experiences.

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey information and engage in productive conversations with individuals and teams.

• Empowerment: Promote a sense of empowerment and self-determination in individuals, encouraging them to take charge of their own recovery journey.

• Problem-Solving: Assist individuals in developing problem-solving skills and finding effective solutions to challenges they may encounter.

• Cultural Competence: Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and understanding to effectively engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities.

• Confidentiality: Adhere to strict confidentiality standards and maintain the privacy of individuals' personal information.

• Documentation: Accurately and efficiently document relevant information, progress notes, and other required documentation using prescribed formats and guidelines.

• Crisis Intervention: Possess the ability to provide support and intervene appropriately during crisis situations, both in-person and over the phone.

• Teamwork: Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and professionals to ensure comprehensive care and support for individuals.

• Organization and Time Management: Efficiently manage time, prioritize tasks, and maintain organized records to ensure smooth operations and meet deadlines.

• Adaptability: Quickly adapt to changing situations, needs, and priorities in a dynamic work environment.

• Computer Literacy: Proficiently utilize computer applications, including Google Suite or similar software, for documentation and communication purposes.

• Self-Care: Practice self-care strategies and maintain personal wellness to sustain emotional well-being while providing support to others.

Physical Demands

• Physical Stamina: The role may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, and being actively engaged with patients and employees during work and employee interactions.

• Lifting and Carrying: There may be occasional requirements to lift or carry lightweight equipment or materials, such as tools or paperwork.

• Manual Dexterity: The position may involve tasks that require the use of hands and fingers, such as typing, writing, and handling materials.

• Visual and Auditory Acuity: The may need to closely observe patients and accurately interpret verbal and non-verbal cues during calls or interviews

• Mobility: The role may involve the ability to move freely within the facility to conduct interviews, attend meetings, and other office duties.

• Sensory Abilities: This position may require the ability to perceive and respond to environmental and situational factors that are relevant to patient interactions.