Peer Support Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary

The Peer Support Specialist provides peer-based support to individuals experiencing mental health challenges, with a focus on promoting recovery, independence, and self-advocacy. Drawing from personal lived experience, the Peer Support Specialist offers guidance, encouragement, and insight to help clients navigate their recovery journey.
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Note : This position works 3 12-hour shifts per week, including working every other weekend (Saturday and Sunday)

Essential Functions

• Support clients in managing symptoms and pursuing recovery through shared experiences and role modeling.
• Encourage client engagement in treatment and personal growth.
• Promote self-advocacy and help clients build natural support systems.
• Assistwith daily living skills, vocational goals, housing access, and financial stability.
• Facilitate social and recreational activities to enhance socialization and community integration.
• Connect clients toadditionalresources and peer support networks.
• Participate in team meetings and provide consultation to providers from a consumer perspective.
• Maintain awareness of client rights, cultural sensitivity, and relevant social service regulations.
• Use American Sign Language and other communication tools to support clients effectively.
• Travel to various community settings to provide direct support.

Job Requirements and Qualifications

Education:

High school diploma or GED required; Associate degree or higher preferred. 

Training Requirements (licenses, programs, or certificates):

• Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS)
• BLS 
• RecipientRight’s
• Completion of agency-specific onboarding and crisis intervention training.
• Ongoing professional development in trauma-informed care and recovery coaching.

Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of two (2) years' experience in the healthcare industry within ina patientsafety, patient relations, and/or risk management role accepted in lieu of college degree.

Preferred Experience:

• Experienceincustomer service
• Experience in crisis de-escalation
• Experience working withadultswithseveremental illness, substance use disorder orintellectual/developmental disabilities
• Background in recovery-oriented or trauma-informed care environments
• Experience in working with Electronic Health Record systems

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Job Specific Competencies/Skills:

• Ability to remain calm and supportive in high-stress situations
• Flexibility to adapt to evolving needs and schedules.
• Strong Organizational Skills
• De-escalation and conflict resolution
• High emotional intelligence and empathy
• Clinical knowledge of mental health and suicide prevention
• Strong time management
• Strong critical thinking and decision-making abilities

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Knowledge Requirements:

• HIPPA
• Microsoft 365
• RecipientRight’s
• Mental Health Code
• Medicaid Manual