Peer Support Specialist

Job Title: Peer Support Specialist

Job Summary:

The Peer Support Specialist is a vital part of our behavioral health team, providing recovery-oriented support and assistance to individuals facing mental health and/or substance use challenges. Drawing upon personal experience in recovery, the Peer Support Specialist helps clients navigate their recovery journey, offering empathy, advocacy, and encouragement. This role emphasizes peer-to-peer connection, promoting wellness, personal responsibility, and empowerment.

Key Responsibilities:

Build trusting relationships with clients, offering emotional support and encouragement as they work towards recovery goals. Serve as an advocate for clients, ensuring their voices are heard in their care and treatment plans.

Assist clients in accessing community resources, such as housing, employment, healthcare, and social services, to support their recovery and overall well-being.

Provide education and coaching on life skills, coping strategies, and self-care techniques. Facilitate group discussions, workshops, and peer-led activities focused on recovery and wellness.

Work closely with clinicians, case managers, and other team members to coordinate care and services for clients. Attend team meetings and contribute to care planning.

Maintain accurate and timely records of client interactions, progress, and any concerns, in accordance with organizational and state requirements.

Recognize signs of crisis and respond appropriately, providing immediate support and connecting clients to necessary crisis services.

Adhere to the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) standards and guidelines for peer support, maintaining confidentiality and ethical boundaries.

· Willingness ongoing learning and development in trauma informed care, de-escalation techniques and all other state required trainings.

Qualifications:

Lived experience with mental health challenges and/or substance use recovery, with at least one year of sustained recovery.

Must have Certified Peer Recovery Supporter (CPRS) in Ohio.

High school diploma or equivalent required. Some college coursework in social work, psychology, or a related field is a plus.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Knowledge of local community resources and recovery-oriented services.

Valid Ohio driver’s license and ability to pass a background check and drug screening.

Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed.

Some travel within the community to meet with clients and attend meetings.

Must be comfortable working in a variety of settings, including office, community, and home environments.

Ability to perform job duties in various environments, which may include standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods.

Any other duties assigned by direct report as needed.

We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.