Certified Peer Support, Intensive Outpatient Treatment

Position Summary

The IOP Certified Peer Specialist provides recovery-oriented peer support services to individuals participating in the Intensive Outpatient Program. Drawing from their own lived experience with mental health and/or substance use challenges, the Peer Specialist serves as a mentor, advocate, and support system to promote hope, recovery, and wellness. The Peer Specialist works as an integral part of the interdisciplinary IOP team.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide peer support services to individuals enrolled in the IOP, both in group and individual settings.
• Share personal recovery experiences to model hope, empowerment, and personal responsibility.
• Support clients in identifying recovery goals and developing self-directed wellness plans.
• Facilitate peer-led groups and co-facilitate psychoeducation groups with clinical staff.
• Absorb participants in navigating mental health, substance use, physical health, housing, and community resources.
• Collaborate closely with clinical staff to support recovery planning and crisis de-escalation.
• Promote engagement and retention in treatment by building trusting, authentic relationships.
• Support clients in developing skills for self-advocacy, social connection, and coping.
• Document services provided in accordance with agency, licensing, and billing standards.
• Uphold confidentiality, ethical boundaries, and professional standards at all times.
• Participate in team meetings, supervision, and required training.

Qualifications

• Lived experience with mental health and/or substance use challenges, and in stable recovery for at least 1 year.
• Certified Peer Specialist (or willingness to obtain certification within a designated time frame)
• High school diploma or equivalent (preferred).
• Knowledge of recovery principles, person-centered planning, trauma-informed care, and harm reduction.
• Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and cultural humility.
• Ability to work as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Familiarity with local community resources.
• Basic computer skills for documentation and communication.