REQ #: 36000083
Research is showing that peer support can be some of the most powerful and effective treatment in mental health. The Blue Ridge Center is looking for someone with effective skills in their own recovery to aid in the empowerment of Region Ten consumers.
CLASSIFICATION TITLE: Community Services Associate B-Peer Support Specialist
GENERAL STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES:
This is a FLSA non-exempt position. This is a grant funded position and employment is contingent upon continued grant support.
The incumbent serves as a Peer Support Specialist who engages with individuals at our Adult Services locations in Charlottesville mainly the Blue Ridge Center and Peterson Building and is responsible for engaging with and connecting individuals who are referred from Region Ten Crisis services or a Community Partner within the crisis continuum to SUD inpatient treatment, BRC groups, additional resources, and overdose prevention supplies. In addition to office-based services, this position is part of the Community Outreach Team that provides outreach at Community events, and distributes overdose prevention supplies to individuals in the Region Ten catchment area. This Peer position is responsible for providing emotional and recovery support services both individually and in group settings to individuals over the age of 18, with mental health and/or co-occurring disorders in the Region Ten catchment area. The incumbent reports to the Program Manager of Recovery Support Services and performs duties by proceeding in consort with other treatment providers. The Peer Support Specialist is expected to perform duties as specified and according to the policies of Region Ten Community Services Board, as well as those of the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS).
QUALIFICATIONS: The incumbent will need to possess the following KSAs and meet the minimum requirements below.
EDUCATION:
- High School Diploma or Equivalency is required.
- Completion of a 72-hour DBHDS approved Peer Support Specialist Course is preferred
EXPERIENCE:
- Lived experience identifying as a person in recovery from mental health or substance use issues is required.
- 1-3 years of experience working with individuals with substance use disorders or mental health disorders is preferred.
- Sustained recovery is recommended
CERTIFICATION/LICENSE:
- Certification as a Peer Recovery Specialist through DBHDS is preferred but the ability to become a certified Peer Support Specialist within the 1st year of employment is required.
- To ensure the safe and efficient operation of the program, a valid Virginia Driver’s License plus an acceptable driving record as issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles are required. For business use of a personal car, a certificate of valid personal automobile insurance
must be provided.
POSITION LOCATION: 100 Burnett St. Charlottesville, VA 22902 and 800 Preston Ave. Charlottesville, VA 22903
GRADE: 8
SCHEDULE: Full Time (40 hours per week)
