Peer Specialist

At Access: Supports for Living and our Access: Network partners, we help people live the healthiest and fullest lives possible - and we support our staff in doing the same. Across our family of organizations, team members work in mental health, substance use, disability, employment, housing, and family services, doing meaningful work in a collaborative and respectful environment. We offer supportive leadership, opportunities to learn and grow, competitive benefits, and the chance to build a career with purpose. If you’re looking for work that matters and a team that values what you bring, the Access Network is a great place to be. Job Title: Peer Specialist Location: Middletown, NY Pay: $17.50 Hours: 25 Overview Of Primary Responsibilities Provide direct services to people with serious mental illness, developmental disabilities, or substance use disorder. Support and connect individuals with serious mental illness, developmental disabilities, or substance use disorders to a broad range of services essential to successful living in a community setting. Primary Functions Inspire hope, welcome everyone to the services with warmth and caring Promote empowerment and self‑determination Provide opportunities for everyone to practice self‑efficacy through activities that emphasize the acquisition, development, and enhancement of life skills Build relationships based on mutuality and shared perspective and provide support to bring about a desired social or personal change Focus on the strengths of each individual Work in partnership with everyone receiving services and the providers of those services Offer living proof of the transformative power of recovery and encourage the celebration of recovery achievements Additional Functional / Organizational Support Work regularly in the community and in client’s homes Be a Resource Connector – Promote self‑advocacy and self‑sufficiency Be an Ally and Confidant – Share related experiences Be a Role Model and Mentor – A social bridge into recovery Be a Problem Solver and Planner – Help to resolve personal and environmental obstacles to recovery, while facilitating the interpretation of an individual’s treatment plan Be an Educator and Tour Guide – Provide information about the stages of recovery, while introducing individuals into the culture of recovery Be a life coach – support individuals through challenges arising from everyday activities and encourage the exploration of different activities Qualifications And Attributes Strong organization skills with accurate attention to detail Excellent communication skills and the ability to multi‑task Able to adapt and work in a fast‑paced environment Knowledgeable and skilled in understanding and educating others on healthcare, healthcare systems, healthcare reform, pathways to care, and communication with community providers Effective decision‑making skills, demonstration of creativity in problem‑solving, and influential leadership skills Excellent verbal, written and presentation skills Familiar with hospital resources, community resources and other related entities Proficient computer skills Education And Experience Personal and lived mental health and/ or recovery experience Experience facing life challenges while coping with a mental health and/or substance use diagnosis NY State Peer certification or Provisional Certification preferred Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus Physical Characteristics Must be capable to sit or stand in front of a computer for long periods of time Able to work in open space floor plan Must be capable to move throughout work day and work with people in the community (people we serve and providers) Work alongside co‑workers within 3 feet Occasional lifting of > 25 pounds Access offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental and vision coverage; an array of voluntary benefits (term life, whole life, identity theft protection and pet insurance); Healthcare and Daycare Flexible Spending Accounts; employer paid Short Term Disability, LTD and AD&D; a matching 403(b) retirement plan, generous paid time off, paid holidays, accelerated holiday pay and tuition assistance. ALL POSITIONS ARE SUBJECT TO A CRIMINAL BACKGROUND, FINGERPRINTING AND MOTOR VEHICLE REPORT CHECK. An Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and Veterans. #J-18808-Ljbffr