Certified Peer Recovery Specialist - Ames

About the role

Primary Health Care (PHC) was founded in 1981 by Dr. Bery Engebretsen in Des Moines, IA. Our mission is to provide healthcare and supportive services to all, regardless of insurance, immigration status, or ability to pay. PHC offers a wide range of medical and dental services, including family practice, behavioral health, HIV care and services, and pharmacy. Our Homeless Support Services act as the entry point for serving people experiencing homelessness in Polk County. Enabling services such as benefits enrollment, case management, transportation, translation, and patient education are available.

Responsibilities

• Provides one-on-one support to assist peers in assessing needs, setting goals for recovery, establishing support networks, and developing relapse prevention plans.
• Supports peers in their recovery process through various means including in-person, virtual, or telephonically at PHC locations or other mutually agreed upon appropriate locations.
• Makes referrals and provides education about resources to peers who need assistance with appointments and treatment teams.
• Maintains accurate and complete peer support documentation.
• Advocates for the needs and perspectives of peers to support their goals and recovery.
• Participates in community events and presentations.
• Engages in performance improvement activities to evaluate programs and service systems.

Qualifications

• Completion of high school diploma or equivalent.
• Demonstrated competency in personal recovery and use of coping skills.
• Lived experience in substance use disorder, mental illness, or homelessness.
• Understanding and application of trauma-informed and culturally competent care principles.
• Knowledge of local community and housing resources.
• Excellent customer service, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Team-oriented approach and problem-solving skills.
• Professionalism and ability to remain composed in high-stress situations.
• Peer Recovery Specialist Certification from Iowa Board of Certification.
• Current Mandatory Reporter Training: Child Abuse and Dependent Adult Abuse recognized by the State of Iowa.
• Valid Iowa Chauffeur’s License (Class D).

Benefits

• Earn 4 weeks of PTO throughout your first year of employment and enjoy paid holidays.
• Continue to develop your skills and grow your career through PHC’s training opportunities including: PHC University, Emerging Leaders, and medical and dental assistant training programs.
• Your experience and skills determine your base pay. The hiring range for this position is typically $17.00 - $21.25 per hour. Additional compensation may be considered for candidates with extensive work experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package includes: Generous PTO accrual (equal to 4 weeks at end of 1st year) plus paid holidays; License/certification fee reimbursement; Paid time off for continuing education & continuing education reimbursement; Tuition reimbursement program; 401k with company match; Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; Flexible spending & health savings accounts; Supplemental accident & critical illness insurance; Discounts on pet insurance.