Peer Support Specialist

Description POSITION SUMMARY: The Forensic Peer Specialist is responsible for providing support and guidance, while mentoring clients who have been released from prison or jail, some with severe and persistent mental illness in a community setting. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Assists individuals with developing their individual service plans. Shares personal recovery stories and describes personal experiences to inspire and support individuals throughout the recovery process, as appropriate. Assists individuals with the development of mental health advanced preferences. Supports individuals with problem solving related to their reintegration into the community. Advises and informs individuals on community resources, including housing, employment, education, transportation, recreation, health, religious/spiritual, and other resources to meet their individual recovery goals. Provides individuals with support and guidance recognizing the early signs of crisis, developing crisis plans, and implementing identified coping strategies.Assists individuals with developing and maintaining positive personal and social support networks. Assists individuals with developing their self-help skills and cultivates their ability to make informed, independent choices. Plans and facilitates practical activities for individuals to increase their self-worth and improve their self-concepts. Assists in facilitating skills-based groups. Attends treatment/recovery team meetings. Documents services provided to individuals/groups. Acts as an advocate for individuals to facilitate positive changes in their recovery. Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with the Judiciary, District Attorneys, Public Defenders, Parole Agents, DSH staff, and local law enforcement officials as needed. Requirements Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist (CMPSS) certification required Experience working in a psychiatric hospital, behavioral health, correctional facility, or a community behavioral health center preferred. Strong understanding of the challenges faced by people reentering society after incarceration Knowledge of mental health peer support services required. Ability to interact with varied levels of managerial, clinical, court, and administrative staff in housing and community Ability to pay attention to detail One (1) year experience in mental health Experience working in the adult residential care industry is preferred. Ability to work independently and be self-motivated in an often-ambiguous environment. Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively work with individuals and groups. MS Office Suite proficiency: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook. Highly organized and detail oriented, with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. Proven track record with maintaining strict confidentiality and appropriately work with sensitive information/documents. Act as a team member providing input and reporting observations and concerns regarding client care. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. #J-18808-Ljbffr