Recovery Support Specialist - Treatment Pathways Program

Job Description
The Village was one of the first agencies in the country to provide homes for neglected children. Today, we continue to achieve our mission "to build a community of strong, healthy families who protect and nurture children" by providing a full range of behavioral health, early childhood and youth development, substance use treatment and support services for children, adults and families in the Greater Hartford, Connecticut region.

Named a Connecticut Top Workplace for six consecutive years with national distinction for workplace culture and diversity, equity and inclusion practices, you can be sure you're joining an organization that's just as committed to your success as we are to those we serve.

Salary: $50,000

Position is located in Middletown CT

Job Summary:

The Recovery Support Specialist (RSS) has lived experience with recovery from mental health issues, Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) or other substance use issues or has family members who have experienced such issues. This lived experience allows the RSS to serve as a role model and resource to assist others in their own recovery. The RSS works with individuals, family/significant others and the community to engage and assist people affected by these mental health and/or substance use issues. The RSS will connect people to a closely linked network of services and supports with a focus on dignity, respect and personal growth. The network will include inpatient and outpatient treatment programs, including community-based treatment services for mental illness, substance use disorders and OUD, including Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), as well as other supports in areas such as housing and employment. Through knowledge of the recovery community and other community support resources, each RSS will help connect individuals to services that enhance their recovery plans, while supporting their goals in developing a safe support network. The RSS does not replace clinical services, but rather enhances them. If recovery support services occur within a clinical setting, the RSS acts as a member of the person's clinical team.


Treatment Pathways Program

The Recovery Support Specialist (RSS) is a vital member of the CSSD Treatment Pathways Program team, providing peer-based recovery support services to individuals involved in the criminal justice system who are experiencing substance use and/or mental health challenges. The RSS uses their lived experience in recovery to inspire hope, promote wellness, and support clients in achieving their recovery goals. This position works 35 hours in the courthouse and 5 hours for the clinic and VERV RV.

Key Responsibilites

• Provide peer support and mentorship to clients in accordance with recovery-oriented principles.
• Assist clients in developing individualized recovery plans and identifying personal goals.
• Support clients in navigating the criminal justice and behavioral health systems.
• Use motivational interviewing and stage-wise interventions to promote engagement and progress.
• Document client interactions and progress in accordance with program and agency standards.
• Collaborate with clinical staff, probation officers, and other stakeholders to support client success.
• Participate in team meetings, supervision, and ongoing training.

Experience and Skills
Required Experience

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate's or bachelor's degree in human services or related field preferred.

Experience:

• Certification as a Recovery Support Specialist (or willingness to obtain certification within the first 6 months).
• Lived experience with substance use recovery and a minimum of two years in sustained recovery.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong computer skills for using two different data entry systems.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care and recovery-oriented systems of care.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bilingual (English/Spanish)
• Knowledge of local community resources and support systems.
• Experience working with justice involved populations

Work Environment:

• Office and community-based settings.
• Will require travel to court, probation offices, treatment facilities, and client homes.
• Must have reliable transportation, and an active license.

Job Benefits
Our benefits package supports your whole life with comprehensive health coverage, generous paid time off, and employer matched retirement savings. We also invest in your growth through tuition assistance (Loan Forgiveness Program - NHSC, tuition reimbursement and Student Loan Repayment).