Peer Specialist

Peer Specialist Job Description:

Established in 1948, The Mission of ASCEND Mental Wellness is to improve the quality of life for those affected by mental illness and to promote the awareness and importance of mental well-being in the community.

ASCEND is looking for Peer Specialists on a part-time basis for various needs within our Dual Recovery Program. Main responsibilities would include facilitating support groups for individuals with co-occurring disorders, as well as offering one-on-one peer support.

Individuals should have lived experience, defined as personal experience with the challenges of addiction or mental health struggles, who are stable in their recovery and draw upon that experience to inspire, advocate for, and support the recovery goals of those they serve.

The ideal candidate will have relevant work experience (paid or voluntary) within the last three years and will have acquired or are actively pursuing certification as a NYCPS. CRPA is welcomed but not required

Peer Specialist Qualifications:

• Possess a personal understanding of the challenges of recovery through lived experience with a mental health condition and history of substance use


• Willingness to draw upon personal experience to serve as a role model and advocate while supporting the recovery goals of individuals served


• Relevant work experience preferred within the last three years (paid or voluntary)


• High School Diploma or equivalent.


• New York Certified Peer Specialist/New York Certified Peer Specialist – Provisional preferred. Active pursuit of NYCPS is required upon hire.


• Certified Recovery Peer Advocate is welcomed but not required


• Provisional certification must be completed within 6 months from start date or at discretion of the supervisor with a written plan.


• A valid NYS driver's license is preferred and must be up to Agency insurance standards.

Peer Specialist Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

• Provide opportunities for peers to direct their own recovery process (self-determination) and advocate for peer's needs and rights.


• Support peers in groups and on a one-to-one basis by offering recovery supports and outreach, both on-site and in the community.


• Share personal recovery experiences to develop authentic, mutual peer-to-peer relationships.


• Offer support and guidance to help peers develop skills that will help identify their passions and reach their goals.


• Support peers in developing social networks in their community.


• Support peers in navigating the mental health service system and exploring resources available in their community at large.

ASCEND Mental Wellness provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.