ACT Peer Support Provider

TITLE: ASSERTIVE COMMUNITY TREATMENT PEER SUPPORT SPECIALIST

REPORTS TO: ASSERTIVE COMMUNITY TREATMENT TEAM LEAD/PROGRAM DIRECTOR

STATUS: EXEMPT

MAIN FUNCTION: The Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Peer Support Specialist provides support to clients enrolled in ACT. This position acts as a mentor and role model who can provide guidance and role modeling through insight gained from their own personal healing journey. This position is part of the ACT team, as well as collaborating with other mental health professionals such as therapists and care coordinators in order to provide clients with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully cope.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide all services in accordance with the policies and procedures of Heartland Counseling, applicable professional code of ethics, and all payor, licensing, and governmental rules.


• Attend and participate in training sessions and related training opportunities as made available, as well as appropriate staff meetings and team huddles, specific to ACT.


• Complete a minimum of 20 hours of training specific to the position.


• Document client services provided according to the clinical standards, rules, regulations, and procedures at Heartland Counseling.


• Function as a mentor who can provide guidance and role modeling through insight gained from their own personal journey.


• Provide clients with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully cope with their mental illness.


• Share personal stories as appropriate to support and encourage clients on their own journey of healing.


• Promote and exhibit positive health and wellness activities.


• Advocate for and with clients, assisting them in preparing for meetings and accompanying them to meetings, court hearings, team meetings, and other related activities when needed.


• Work as part of a multidisciplinary team with other mental health professionals such as therapists, nurses, and care coordinators.


• Assist with the collection, maintenance, and analysis of participant data.


• Serve as a bridge between clients and service providers, supporting a productive and respectful partnership by assisting clients to express their strengths, needs, and goals.


• Model and teach problem-solving and coping skills to individuals and their families.


• Provide education to the ACT Team regarding their own experience.


• Assist the ACT Team in meeting health outcome measures for assigned clients.


• Identify support group needs of clients and work to develop these when necessary.


• Assist with care coordination as determined by the client’s care plan and collaborate with the client to develop health and recovery goals.


• Provide crisis support for clients and be a part of the on-call rotation to support the needs of ACT clients 24/7/365.


• Support the clients in discovering their strengths and concerns; assist clients to identify and set goals and short-term objectives.


• Enhance the quality of life by integration and support for clients in their own communities, identifying barriers and improving access to community and natural supports.


• Performs other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES: 

• Maintains confidentiality when dealing with all clients.


• Must utilize effective problem-solving skills as appropriate.


• Must be flexible to change and have the ability to work effectively in a team environment.


• Coordinates workflow with other team members to ensure a productive and efficient environment.


• Skills in verbal and written communication.


• Maintains ethics as dictated by profession.


• Maintains state licensure without disciplinary action.


• Knowledge of skills building concepts and community resources.


• Ability to form positive relationships with clients.


• Strong interpersonal skills in working with diverse


• Possess a valid driver’s license and an insurable driving record.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or GED required.


• Certified as Peer Support Specialist or one continuous year as current or former recipient of treatment and eligibility to obtain Peer Support Specialist certification.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.


• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.