Peer Support Specialist

Job Description

Benefits:

Health insurance

Paid time off

Job Title: Peer Support Specialist Department: Behavioral Health Services

Reports To: Clinical Director FLSA Status: Non-Exempt / Full-Time Job Level: H5

Position Summary

The Peer Support Specialist (PSS) is a vital member of the community mental health team who uses personal lived experience with mental health recovery to inspire hope, promote self-determination, and support individuals in achieving their personal wellness goals. Working in partnership with clinicians, case managers, and community partners, the PSS provides recovery-oriented, person-centered services that empower individuals to build skills, connect with resources, and thrive in their communities.

Key Responsibilities

Build trusting, supportive relationships with individuals receiving mental health services through empathy, active listening, and shared experiences.

Provide peer-led individual and group support sessions that foster recovery, wellness, and resiliency.

Assist clients in identifying personal strengths, setting goals, and developing individualized recovery plans.

Support clients in navigating community systems (housing, healthcare, transportation, employment, benefits, education).

Promote social inclusion by connecting clients with community support, activities, and peer networks.

Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members to coordinate care and ensure client needs are met holistically.

Advocate for clients rights, self-advocacy, and participation in treatment and recovery planning.

Maintain timely, accurate documentation in compliance with agency, state, and Medicaid standards.

Participate in ongoing supervision, training, and professional development.

Uphold trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices in all service delivery.

Qualifications

Required:

Self-identification as a person with lived experience of mental health and/or substance use recovery.

Completion of state-approved Peer Support Specialist Certification or willingness to obtain certification within six months of hire.

High school diploma or GED.

Strong communication, interpersonal, and boundary-setting skills.

Commitment to recovery principles, person-centered care, and empowerment.

Basic proficiency in electronic documentation and computer use.

Preferred:

Experience working in community mental health, social services, or peer-led recovery programs.

Knowledge of local community resources, public benefits, and behavioral health systems.

Familiarity with trauma-informed, harm reduction, and recovery-oriented practices.

Valid drivers license and reliable transportation for community-based work.

Core Competencies

Empathy & Respect: Builds trust through authenticity and shared experience.

Recovery Orientation: Promotes wellness, self-determination, and personal growth.

Cultural Humility: Demonstrates respect for diverse experiences and backgrounds.

Team Collaboration: Works cooperatively within multidisciplinary teams.

Professional Integrity: Adheres to ethical standards and maintains confidentiality.

Work Environment

Work occurs in community settings such as client homes, clinics, shelters, hospitals, and outreach sites. Travel within the service area is required; flexible scheduling may include evenings or weekends.

Physical Requirements

Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods. Occasionally lift or move up to 25 pounds. Comfort with working in diverse community environments.

Full-time