Certified Peer Recovery Specialist

Peer Recovery Specialist

The Peer Recovery Specialist plays a vital role in supporting individuals on their journey to recovery from substance use disorders and related challenges. This position focuses on providing empathetic, non-clinical support by leveraging lived experience to inspire hope and model recovery. The specialist collaborates closely with clients, families, and treatment teams to develop personalized recovery plans and connect individuals with community resources. Through advocacy, education, and mentorship, the Peer Recovery Specialist empowers clients to build resilience and maintain long-term recovery goals. Ultimately, this role contributes to improving overall well-being and fostering a supportive recovery community within diverse populations across the United States.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must have lived experience with recovery from substance use disorder and be willing to share this experience appropriately.
• Certification as a Peer Recovery Specialist or equivalent credential recognized within the state of employment.
• High school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require additional education or training in behavioral health.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with diverse populations.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality in all client interactions.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in behavioral health, addiction treatment, or social services settings.
• Additional certifications such as CPR, First Aid, or Mental Health First Aid.
• Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) and case management software.
• Bilingual in Spanish a plus.
• Post-secondary education in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field.

Responsibilities:

• Provide one-on-one peer support and mentorship to individuals in recovery, sharing personal experiences to foster trust and motivation.
• Assist clients in developing and implementing individualized recovery plans that address their unique needs and goals.
• Facilitate access to community resources such as housing, employment, healthcare, and support groups to promote holistic recovery.
• Advocate for clients' rights and needs within treatment settings and the broader community to ensure equitable access to services.
• Conduct outreach and education activities to raise awareness about recovery options and reduce stigma associated with substance use disorders.
• Document client interactions and progress accurately while maintaining confidentiality and adhering to ethical standards.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including counselors, social workers, and healthcare providers to coordinate comprehensive care.
• Will assist substance abuse counselor in group facilitation.

Skills:

The Peer Recovery Specialist utilizes strong interpersonal and communication skills daily to build rapport and trust with clients, creating a safe space for open dialogue. Active listening and empathy are essential to understand client needs and provide meaningful support based on shared experiences. Organizational skills are employed to manage caseloads, document progress, and coordinate with multidisciplinary teams efficiently. Problem-solving and advocacy skills enable the specialist to navigate complex systems and connect clients with appropriate resources. Additionally, cultural competence and adaptability are critical to effectively serve individuals from diverse backgrounds and tailor support to their unique recovery journeys.

This position is a part-time position Hours: Monday – Thursday, 4-8