Peer Specialist

Peer Specialist (CRPA)

The Peer Specialist (CRPA) provides peer-based recovery support services to individuals enrolled in an OASAS 822 outpatient substance use disorder program. The Peer Specialist uses lived experience, training, and certification to support participants in building recovery capital, engaging in treatment, navigating systems of care, and sustaining long-term recovery. Services are delivered in alignment with OASAS regulations, agency policies, and recovery-oriented principles.

Responsibilities:

• Provide individual and group peer support services consistent with CRPA scope of practice and OASAS 822 standards.
• Support participant engagement, retention, and adherence to treatment plans through recovery coaching and mentorship.
• Share lived recovery experience in a purposeful, professional, and recovery-focused manner.
• Assist participants in identifying recovery goals and developing personalized recovery plans.
• Facilitate linkage to community resources, including self-help groups, vocational services, housing supports, and medical/behavioral health providers.
• Provide crisis support and de-escalation within the scope of peer services and refer to clinical staff as needed.
• Collaborate with counselors, supervisors, and multidisciplinary team members to support coordinated care.
• Maintain timely, accurate, and compliant documentation in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) in accordance with agency and OASAS requirements.
• Participate in supervision, team meetings, trainings, and required professional development.

Competencies:

• Knowledge of recovery-oriented systems of care and peer support principles.
• Familiarity with and ability to use an Electronic Health Record system.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and engagement skills.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and self-motivated.
• Cultural humility and the ability to work with diverse populations.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Meeting established productivity expectations for peer services.
• Timely and accurate documentation in accordance with agency and OASAS documentation standards.
• Engagement and retention of participants in services.
• Compliance with supervision, training, and certification requirements.

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in human services or related field preferred.
• One of the following credentials is required: NYS Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA), Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC), or Care Manager with demonstrated substance use disorder (SUD) experience.
• Experience working with adults with substance use disorders, including outreach or field-based services.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel locally as required.
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and data systems.
• Fluency in English (reading, writing, speaking); bilingual skills a plus.
• Must maintain all applicable regulatory clearances.
• Legally eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Special Considerations :

• Ability to work evenings or flexible hours to meet participant needs.
• Hours per week, reporting structure, and location are subject to change based on program needs.

Mandated Reporter:

This is a Mandated Reporter position. The NYS Justice Center legislation defines anyone who has regular and substantial contact with any person with special needs as a "custodian" under the law and, therefore, a mandated reporter. You can be held liable by both the civil and criminal legal systems for intentionally failing to make a report.

Greater Mental Health of New York is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Greater Mental Health of New York is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request a reasonable accommodation, contact the Human Resources Department.