Job Summary: Certified Peer Specialists play a vital role in fostering recovery-oriented environments by utilizing their own lived experiences. They actively contribute to building supportive communities and empowering individuals through hope, personal responsibility, education, and self-determination.
General Accountabilities:
- Initiate and maintain mutual support and education groups to facilitate a sense of community and promote recovery.
- Facilitate discussions and dialogues on topics related to recovery and resilience, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Teach and demonstrate effective symptom management skills to help individuals better cope with their challenges.
- Teach and model problem-solving skills to empower individuals in overcoming obstacles and achieving their goals.
- Support individuals in their efforts to obtain and sustain paid employment, providing guidance and resources.
- Utilize the stages of recovery concept to encourage individuals' self-determination and active involvement in their own recovery journey.
- Assist peers in setting goals and providing ongoing support to ensure engagement in wellness and health-promoting activities.
- Conduct recovery-supportive groups to provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and receive support.
- Intervene in crisis situations, offering immediate support and assistance either in person or via phone.
- Process intake documents to ensure accurate and comprehensive information is collected.
- Maintain detailed case notes using the SIRP documentation format to track individual progress and support continuity of care.
- Conduct urine analysis (UA) tests when required and maintain proper documentation of results.
- Adhere to the CPS Code of Ethics as per DMH (Department of Mental Health) standards.
- Depending on the assigned department, additional office duties may be assigned as needed.
Note: The specific office duties may vary based on the department and organizational requirements.
Skills/Job Qualifications
Qualifications:
- Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Experience: Possess one to two years of relevant experience.
- Certification: Hold a valid Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) certification.
- Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing Google Suite.
- Preferred Knowledge: Familiarity with Combat Connections (CCL) is highly desirable.
- Substance-Free Lifestyle: Maintain a minimum of six months to one year of abstaining from drugs and alcohol.
Skills:
- Active Listening: Ability to attentively listen to individuals and understand their perspectives and needs without judgment.
- Peer Support: Provide empathetic and non-judgmental support to peers based on personal lived experiences.
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey information and engage in productive conversations with individuals and teams.
- Empowerment: Promote a sense of empowerment and self-determination in individuals, encouraging them to take charge of their own recovery journey.
- Problem-Solving: Assist individuals in developing problem-solving skills and finding effective solutions to challenges they may encounter.
- Cultural Competence: Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and understanding to effectively engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities.
- Confidentiality: Adhere to strict confidentiality standards and maintain the privacy of individuals' personal information.
- Documentation: Accurately and efficiently document relevant information, progress notes, and other required documentation using prescribed formats and guidelines.
- Crisis Intervention: Possess the ability to provide support and intervene appropriately during crisis situations, both in-person and over the phone.
- Teamwork: Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and professionals to ensure comprehensive care and support for individuals.
- Organization and Time Management: Efficiently manage time, prioritize tasks, and maintain organized records to ensure smooth operations and meet deadlines.
- Adaptability: Quickly adapt to changing situations, needs, and priorities in a dynamic work environment.
- Computer Literacy: Proficiently utilize computer applications, including Google Suite or similar software, for documentation and communication purposes.
- Self-Care: Practice self-care strategies and maintain personal wellness to sustain emotional well-being while providing support to others.
Physical Demands
- Physical Stamina: The role may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, and being actively engaged with patients and employees during work and employee interactions.
- Lifting and Carrying: There may be occasional requirements to lift or carry lightweight equipment or materials, such as tools or paperwork.
- Manual Dexterity: The position may involve tasks that require the use of hands and fingers, such as typing, writing, and handling materials.
- Visual and Auditory Acuity: The may need to closely observe patients and accurately interpret verbal and non-verbal cues during calls or interviews
- Mobility: The role may involve the ability to move freely within the facility to conduct interviews, attend meetings, and other office duties.
- Sensory Abilities: This position may require the ability to perceive and respond to environmental and situational factors that are relevant to patient interactions.
