Peer Support Specialist

Peer Support Specialist Responsible for engaging and motivating identified population to seek needed services. Explains, guides, supports and assists clients with goals of improved stability and self‑sufficiency, independent living, self‑advocacy, and development of supportive relationships. Responsible for assisting individuals with serious mental illness to increase skills in independent living and self‑advocacy. Co‑leads client activities. Schedule Hours: 37.5 hours. Monday – Friday (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.). Evening and weekend hours are required as needed to support program operations and client needs. Advance notice will be provided whenever possible. Responsibilities Assists in the planning and implementation of activities of the Drop‑In Center Assists in the development and leading of mental health recovery groups. Assists in the development and leading of advocacy training groups. Provides supportive peer counseling. Assists in implementing independent living skills and leading independent living skills classes and groups. Assist with transportation of client(s) to and from home and outings. Assists in providing community consultation and education, as assigned. Assists in the development and facilitation of training for clients and the community. Explains LCHD programs to the client and/or family. Assists family through the intake, referral, and connection with other agencies. Provides support and advocacy for families receiving services. Qualifications High school diploma or G.E.D. certificate required. Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) strongly preferred. Requires one year of direct and personal experience with the mental health system as a primary consumer of services. Demonstrated ability to utilize lived experience to provide peer support, advocacy, and encouragement to clients. Must possess a valid driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record. Requires use of personal vehicle when an LCHD fleet vehicle is not available for outreach activities or to respond to crisis calls in the field. Eligibility At this time, you must live in Illinois or Wisconsin to be eligible to work at Lake County Health Department. Benefits & Policies Any offer of employment is conditioned on the successful completion of a background screening, drug and alcohol testing and may include a pre‑employment medical exam. Equal Opportunity The Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other protected characteristics. #J-18808-Ljbffr