Peer Counselor

Peer Counselor

The Peer Counselor provides peer recovery support to clients by sharing life experiences, assisting clients to develop a recovery plan, and linking clients with community-based programs supportive of recovery. Peer services may be provided onsite or in the community.

Essential Duties:

• Assist clients in developing a Recovery Plan.
• Maintain communication with the treatment team on behalf of clients.
• Document delivered peer services in the Electronic Health Records (EHR).
• Attend supervision/staff meetings as appropriate.
• Accompany clients to appointments as needed.
• Support program participants in pre-crisis or crisis situations.
• Teach participants recovery skills based on shared life experiences.
• Help participants transition from different levels of care as needed.
• Share information with participants about benefits, entitlements, and other supports.
• Interact with staff, clients, students, and visitors in a courteous, professional and respectful manner that is consistent with the agency's mission and values.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

• High-School Diploma/GED and 2 years of work or volunteer experience in a recovery-oriented setting.
• NYS Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA)
• At least 1 year as a volunteer or paid experience working as a Recovery Coach or Provisional CRPA.
• Lived experience in mental health, substance use, and criminal justice preferred.
• Familiarity with community-based resources and programs related to substance use recovery, housing transportation, child care, food, and other supports.
• Valid/Clean Driver's License.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in documenting Wellness/Recovery Plans.
• Prioritize and plan work time efficiently.
• Verbal and written communication skills.
• Neat and punctual.