Peer Support Specialist

Peer Support Specialist

Under general supervision, the Peer Support Coach uses intermediate skills obtained through lived experience and training to provide support and motivation to clients seeking treatment and services related to assigned functional area, including alcohol and drug dependency and mental illness. Assesses client needs, provides consultation, guidance, and advocacy to clients through direct assistance, information, and referral to internal and external resources. Develops, implements, and monitors clients' attainment of goals and objectives listed within treatment plans and individualized plans of services.

Engage and enroll clients in intervention and support services

Utilize program tools to develop a person-centered, individualized plan of service for each client, which will be used to identify goals, address barriers, and monitor progress towards recovery and self-sufficiency

Assist clients in recognizing and understanding "at risk" behaviors and coach client on redirecting those behaviors

Complete initial and follow-up review processes and necessary documentation related to services provided

Advocate on behalf of client in written and oral form when providing necessary referrals and contacts with other departments/agencies/companies

Coordinate delivery of benefits and various services the client was referred to ensure participation and program compliance based on assigned program

Provide peer coaching to clients in one-on-one or group settings to improve overall functioning, interpersonal relationships, integration into community, and support clients' efforts to meet their individual and program goals

Administer testing as needed - depending upon assigned functional area, this may include blood testing and the coordination of administering, preparing, and shipping samples and receiving test results

Establish and maintain relationships with appropriate client referral sources

Maintain currency on new services and referral sources as well as services provided to clients

Maintain program policies and procedures per funding guidelines

Maintain agency confidentiality and client privacy

Follow the funding sources requirements and CARF standards applicable to the services provided

May conduct presentations and awareness campaigns in order to raise awareness of services offered and increase participation

May support recruitment efforts for assigned program area

May translate and interpret information for non-English speaking clients as needed

Routine contact with internal and external clients is required to obtain, clarify, or provide facts and information

Operate standard office equipment and use required software applications

Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned

Knowledge of:

Community resources including social services agencies and crisis intervention providers

Processes, rules and regulations of various services and funding agencies surrounding the eligibility and maintenance of the services being received

HIPAA regulations based on assigned functional area

Skill in:

Operating standard office equipment and using required software applications for program area and other applications, including Microsoft Office

Community Outreach/Activism

Mentoring

Ability to:

Self-identify as a person who lived experience with assigned functional area and is prepared to use that experience in helping others

Partner with other functional areas to accomplish objectives

Facilitate meetings, ensuring that all viewpoints, ideas, and problems are addressed

Organize and prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines

Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

Speak and write in English. Ability to interpret, speak and write in Arabic, Spanish or other native language of the predominant service population is preferred

Receive general guidance and direction to perform a variety of non-routine tasks and responsibilities

Resolve most questions and problems and refers new or unusual issues to a higher level

Maintain confidentiality of agency and client information

Educational/Previous Experience Requirements:

High school diploma or GED equivalent

At least one year of experience working in social services or any equivalent combination of experience, education and/or training approved by Human Resources

Actively in recovery with (3-5) years lived experience in the field or other lived experience approved by Human Resources

Background check must show that candidate is fully off of probation/parole for a minimum of two years before date of hire.

Licenses/Certifications:

Valid Driver's license

Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) MDHHS

QMHP Adults - 5 hours within 90 days after the first day of employment, or

QMHP Children – 24 hours within 90 days after the first day of employment

Peer Support Specialist certification

Certified Mental Health Fist Aid (MHFA)

Working Conditions:

Hours: Normal business hours, some additional hours may be required. Non-traditional hours, including nights and weekends, may be required based on assigned functional area

Travel Required: Local, in-state, and national travel may be required based on approval from supervisor only

Working Environment: Climate controlled office.