Peer Specialist

We are searching for a passionate and motivated Peer Specialist to work in our Oneida Crisis Residence Program. Liberty Resources has four Crisis Residence locations with 3‑8 beds in Syracuse, Oneida, Oswego, and Auburn. The respite homes are community‑based residential programs that provide a therapeutic environment for adults experiencing a mental health crisis. The program offers Peer Support Services delivered by individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges and a willingness to share their story, complemented by Crisis Support Staff with extensive experience in the field. Services include health and wellness coaching, recurrence prevention planning, wellness activities, family support, conflict resolution, and referrals and linkage services. The goal is to stabilize crises to support a guest’s safe return to their community and to provide preventive measures for reducing unnecessary emergency department visits and hospitalizations. What We Offer Home‑like setting Relaxed atmosphere Variety of work hours Mentorship and entry‑level experience with opportunities for growth in the agency Peer certification hours Peer Specialist Position Summary The Peer Support Specialist provides support to individuals enrolled in the Supportive Crisis Residence who are experiencing challenges in daily life that create risk for escalation of symptoms that cannot be managed in the individual’s home and community environment. Through the use of recovery‑oriented services, harm reduction, trauma‑informed care, motivational interviewing and intentional peer support, the specialist will offer recovery support, health and wellness coaching, recurrence prevention planning, wellness activities, family support, conflict resolution, and any other responsibilities related to the operations of a Supportive Crisis Residence. Peer Specialist Job Responsibilities Provide required services to guests enrolled in the Supportive Crisis Residence as outlined in 14 NYCRR XIII Part 589, including assistance in personal care and activities of daily living, peer support, engagement, safety planning, integration of direct care and support services, case management, medication management, and medication monitoring. Provide peer support in fidelity with the Peer and Recovery‑Oriented models of support. Provide any needed crisis intervention, teach individuals to view crises differently and utilize wellness tools to prevent future crises or reduce the intensity of personal crises. Work closely with Health Homes, hospitals and treatment providers through a person‑centered/self‑directed approach to develop an integrated plan of care including mental health, physical health, substance use services, and community supports necessary for individuals to succeed in the community. Provide advocacy, peer support, referral and linkage services for program guests as needed. Provide coverage for the program as reflected in the staffing plan, including overnights as required. Complete all required documentation, such as Individual Service Plan, Social Determinants of Health Assessment, Strengths and Needs Assessment, Safety Planning, Daily Progress Notes, and Discharge Summary in timelines in accordance with program standards. Peer Specialist Qualifications Work experience in a behavioral health or related setting, preferably using the recovery model, with one to two years of personal recovery experience preferred. Personal experience as a recipient of mental health services with a willingness to share personal, practical experience, knowledge, and first‑hand insight to benefit program guests. Certified by the Office of Mental Health (OMH) as a Certified Peer Specialist or willing to complete the certification process within six months of employment. Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). A respect for, compassion and high level of comfort around people experiencing psychiatric crisis. Ability to utilize critical thinking, problem‑solving and de‑escalation skills to assist with creating and maintaining an environment that promotes recovery. Peer Specialist Required Skills and Abilities Ability to understand, support and operate from a strength‑based recovery‑oriented model; display professionalism in all settings; recognize the importance and benefits of relationship‑building and collaborating with other service providers. Ability to solve complex problems using creative solutions and act consistently in a manner that demonstrates dignity and respect for peers. Ability to de‑escalate in times of crisis. Hours and Pay Hours: Evenings, weekends, and overnights. Pay rate: $20‑$24 per hour depending on certification status. Equal Opportunity Employer Liberty Resources is committed to creating a diverse inclusive environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We offer equal employment opportunities to all persons without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, parental status, housing status, source of income or military status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local EEO laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr