Peer Support Specialist - Entry Level

Job Description

Job Description

Horizon House Inc. is a nationally recognized provider of services to adults with support needs due to developmental disabilities, behavioral health issues and substance abuse. Horizon House is Pennsylvania’s oldest psychiatric rehabilitation agency. Since 1952, Horizon House has been dedicated to helping people with mental illness, drug and alcohol addictions, developmental/intellectual disabilities and homelessness to help stabilize their lives and to help them live as independently as possible in the community. With over 100 locations, Horizon House provides services to a diverse population focusing on individual strength and choice.

We are seeking qualified Peer Support Specialist who are interested in joining our ACT Alliance team in Georgetown, DE.

The Peer Support Specialist as part of the Case Management team that provides the experience as a recipient of mental health services for severe and persistent mental illness and is willing to use and share his/her own personal practical experiences, knowledge and firsthand insight to benefit the team and its participants.

Other responsibilities include the following:

• Function as a fully integrated team member to provide expertise about the recovery process, symptom management and the persistence required by participants to have a satisfying life.
• Serve as a liaison between the team and consumer run programs such as self-help groups and drop-in centers.
• Serve as a mentor to participants to promote hope and empowerment.
• Maintain a permanent record of participant’s activities according to established methods and procedures.
• Help participants identify, understand and combat stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED, and experience working with adults with severe and persistent mental illness; or any combination of experience, education or training that would provide the level of knowledge, skill and ability required as defined by DSAMH’s Standards for ACT/ICM Peer Roles, Scope of Practice.
• Self-knowledge to manage their mental illness and be well along in their recovery.
• Skills and competence to establish supporting trusting relationships with persons with severe and persistent mental illness and respect for participants’ rights.
• Good communication skills both oral and written.
• Ability to work independently.
• Detailed oriented.
• Possess a valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.

Scope:

• Frequent talking and listening.
• Manual dexterity.
• Requires carrying a cell phone and being available to respond to emergency situations.
• Lifting and or carrying, not to exceed 25 lbs.
• Local travel required.

Horizon House offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefit package including medical and dental, (9) nine paid holidays and generous paid time off, retirement savings plan, voluntary tax shelter annuity, tuition reimbursement and opportunities for advancement and more.

To be considered for this position please complete the application by going to

Horizon House, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer