Peer Support Specialist (CRU)

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionJob SummaryThis position supports clients during their stay by providing compassionate care, de-escalation, and coordination of services. Responsibilities include developing discharge and safety plans, offering follow-up support, and connecting clients to community resources.The specialist collaborates with the interdisciplinary team and maintains accurate documentation while upholding confidentiality and professional standards. Some evening or weekend hours may be required based on client and program needs.Essential FunctionsEngage and collaborate with clients presenting for care at the Resource and Crisis CenterProvide continuity of care throughout the client’s stay, including: Developing discharge plansProviding consistent follow-up post-discharge to support engagement in servicesEncourage client participation in the care process during a crisis, clearly communicating all options and aligning with client preferences whenever possibleFunction as an integral member of the Crisis Center interdisciplinary team to maximize client careWelcome clients to the Crisis Center and create a safe, supportive rapportDe-escalate clients as needed, interacting from a posture of dignity and respectProvide information and assist clients with referrals to preferred community servicesContribute to interdisciplinary treatment team decisionsCollaborate with clients to create and implement safety plansProvide follow-up support post-discharge, assisting with service access and navigating barriersInteract with clients as peers by sharing common experiences when appropriateAssist clients in understanding and managing their symptomsConnect clients to self-help groups when appropriateMaintain strict confidentiality at all timesParticipate in weekly clinical supervision with licensed/certified staffAdvocate for client needs, preferences, rights, and responsibilitiesAssist clients in accessing local programs and services and track follow-up activitiesComplete required electronic and paper medical record documentationAttend staff meetings and crisis debriefings as scheduledSupport clients while completing tasks such as: Contraband searchesClose observationsEnvironmental checksMeals and paperworkCommunicate and document critical incidents involving clients or staff to supervisorsPerform other duties as assignedJob Requirements and QualificationsEducationHigh school diploma or GED requiredAssociate’s degree or higher preferredTraining / CertificationsMDHHS Certified Peer Support SpecialistFamiliarity with community resources for mental health and substance use treatmentExperienceTwo years of experience in mental health, substance use treatment, or discharge planning in a hospital or community settingTwo years of professional crisis experience (hospital, crisis center, child welfare, etc.)Job-Specific Competencies / SkillsAbility to work independently and as part of a teamExcellent organizational and time-management skillsStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsAbility to remain calm and focused under pressureEmpathy and strong ethical standardsStrong documentation and record-keeping skillsKnowledge RequirementsHIPAAMicrosoft 365Recipient RightsMental Health CodeMedicaid ManualRegulatory complianceOakland Community Health Network’s Core CompetenciesIntegrity / Building Trust Demonstrates ethical behavior, professionalism, and alignment with organizational valuesCustomer Focus Prioritizes client needs and builds strong, supportive relationshipsContinuous Learning Actively pursues growth and applies new knowledge on the jobWork Standards Maintains high performance standards and accountabilityCommunication Clearly conveys information in a way that engages and informs othersAdditional InformationMust be available for meetings and events outside standard office hours as neededWork is performed primarily in a crisis center environmentMust be able to meet physical job requirements with or without reasonable accommodationEqual Opportunity StatementOCHN is committed to building a diverse team and fostering an inclusive and equitable culture. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that embraces and encourages employees’ differences.This includes (but is not limited to) ability, age, color, family type, gender expression and identity, individual expression, medical conditions, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, and other diverse characteristics.