Peer Specialist

Peer Support Program Assistant

Responsible for assisting with the overall operation of the Center's peer support programs. The person in this position has the responsibility for assisting with the planning and implementation of consumer activities. He/she will assist in providing support and educational opportunities provided by the Center's peer programs.

Qualifications: Knowledge and Required Training:

• The person must have at least a High School Diploma or GED. An individual who does not have a High School Diploma or GED may be considered for this position if they are currently enrolled in a GED program.
• The person must have, or be willing to obtain first aid, CPR, CPI, and Peer Counselor Training.
• The person must also be willing to obtain other trainings required to obtain their Peer Specialist Certification.
• The person must be able to demonstrate self-motivation, and excellent communication skills, and ability to work well with others.
• The person must be a good listener, possess the ability to be supportive, and be able to help others to achieve a feeling of well-being.
• The person occupying this position must be a past or current consumer of mental health services, and possess the ability, knowledge, and personal insight to maintain mental stability.

Duties and Responsibilities Can Include Any of the Following:

• To participate in the development of consumer recovery activities.
• To participate in the maintenance of records, and all required reports as established by the Center, the State of Tennessee, TennCare Bureau, etc.
• To obtain training in peer counseling techniques and to provide peer counseling to consumers of the Center.
• To obtain other trainings in recovery focused programs, such as WRAP or Bridges, required for certification as a Peer Specialist.
• Provide peer counseling and support to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis both face-to-face and on the telephone to help reduce their level of distress.
• Introduce clients to WRAP in Respite and CSU settings to aid consumers in their recovery.
• Provide linkage and referral to peer run Peer Support Centers and other community support groups to individuals served in the Center's programs.
• Aid in service and discharge planning for individuals served in the Center's programs. Provide follow-up after referral or discharge, to encourage the individual to keep appointments and to aid in continuity of care.
• Participate in clinical staffing of individuals being served with Center staff from other disciplines.
• Performs other duties as requested.

Personal Relationships:

In order to appropriately accomplish his/her duties, the person occupying this position will be required to maintain effective relationships with a wide variety of clinical staff people, as well as mental health consumers.