Peer Support Specialist-New Directions (PRN)

Job Description Summary: 

The Certified Peer Specialist is responsible for providing supportive rehabilitation and recovery support services to individuals impacted by a variety of behavioral health issues who are learning to manage aspects of their mental illness/substance abuse recovery.

Education:

• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Work Experiences:

• Must be a recipient of or have received mental health services in the recent past.

Responsibilities:

• Provide ongoing emotional support and guide, teach and coach skills for managing mental health issues.
• Train, coach and support individuals in learning social and daily living skills.
• Accompany to appointments to provide support, advocacy and encouragement in discussing issues with doctors and therapists.
• Provide community living skills coaching and teaching to develop independence and self-sufficiency.
• Assist individuals in accessing public services to include financial, housing, emergency service needs, food, shelter and clothing resources.
• Assist in accessing support groups in the community.
• Assist in developing Wellness and Recovery Plans with clients.
• Assist in learning Illness Management and Recovery skills to become familiar with signs and symptoms of mental illness.
• Teach stress reduction exercises.
• Certified Peer Specialist shall report to and perform other work-related duties as assigned by the Assistant Director of Crisis Services.
• Performs specified administrative tasks as determined by the Assistant Director of Crisis Services and/or Director of Crisis Services
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements:

• Normal office environment. 
• Typical demands include prolonged sitting, frequent standing, bending, stooping, and occasional lifting up to 25 pounds. 
• Requires normal range of hearing and manual dexterity sufficient to operate keyboard, telephone, photocopier, calculator, and other office equipment as needed. 
• Requires ability to work under stressful conditions and to work irregular hours and deal with irate individuals.
• TB test upon hire.