Mental Health Peer Support Specialist

Job Description Job Summary The Peer Support Specialist provides emotional and mental health–focused support, encouragement, and guidance to individuals facing mental health and/or substance use challenges. Drawing from lived experience, the Peer Support Specialist helps clients build healthy coping skills, improve emotional well-being, navigate recovery and mental health resources, and work toward personal goals. This role emphasizes empathy, mutual respect, empowerment, and overall wellness. Key Responsibilities Provide one‑on‑one peer support based on shared lived experience with mental health and/or substance use recovery Assist clients in developing recovery, wellness, and mental health stability goals and action plans Offer emotional support, validation, and encouragement during mental health challenges or crises Help individuals access mental health services, community resources, and support systems Facilitate peer support groups and workshops focused on mental health awareness, coping skills, and recovery Share recovery tools, self‑care practices, and mental health coping strategies in a supportive manner Promote self‑advocacy and empowerment in managing mental health and overall well‑being Maintain accurate and timely documentation of client interactions and progress Collaborate with clinical staff and other team members to support holistic mental health care Promote a recovery‑oriented, person‑centered, and trauma‑informed approach to care Uphold confidentiality, ethical standards, and professional boundaries Requirements Qualifications Lived experience with mental health and/or substance use recovery High school diploma or equivalent (Bachelor’s degree preferred in psychology, social work, or related field) Certification as a Peer Support Specialist (if required by state or organization) Strong interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written) Ability to build trust and rapport with individuals experiencing mental health challenges Basic computer skills for documentation and communication Preferred Skills Experience working in mental health, behavioral health, or community services Knowledge of local mental health resources, crisis services, and support systems Group facilitation experience, especially around mental health topics Crisis intervention awareness and ability to respond appropriately to mental health concerns (non‑clinical) May work in community settings, mental health clinics, hospitals, or outreach programs Some travel may be required for client visits or community engagement Flexible hours, including evenings or weekends, may be needed Core Competencies Empathy and active listening Non‑judgmental and mental health‑affirming attitude Reliability and professionalism Strong boundaries and ethical conduct Commitment to recovery, wellness, and mental health advocacy #J-18808-Ljbffr Tobias Solutions