Certified Peer Support Specialist

About the role

We are seeking passionate Certified Peer Support Specialists (CPSS) to provide recovery-focused services to individuals with serious mental illness and/or substance use disorders. Peer Support Services are person-centered and grounded in lived experience—supporting others in navigating challenges, accessing resources, and building independence.

You will serve as a mentor, motivator, and bridge to community integration—using your own recovery journey to inspire hope and promote wellness.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct outreach to connect with individuals who may benefit from services.
• Facilitate regular community-based visits with participants, as assigned.
• Use your personal recovery story to model resilience, coping, and empowerment.
• Teach independent living skills and promote social interaction and inclusion.
• Aid participants in navigating systems (mental health, medical, housing, legal).
• Support participants in developing and pursuing their own recovery goals.
• Educate individuals about their rights and support self-advocacy.
• Document services and follow Medicaid Clinical Coverage Policy 8G standards.
• Respond to emerging behavioral health or crisis needs in the field as appropriate.
• Collaborate with clinical team and Qualified Professional (QP) for supervision and planning.

Requirements

• A high school diploma or GED
• Current NC Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) Certification (required)
• Ability to share lived experience in a way that is supportive and respectful
• Knowledge of recovery principles and community resources
• Ability to work independently and in a team setting
• Comfortable providing services in the community (home, shelters, public spaces)
• Strong documentation and time management skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Reliable Transportation & Valid Driver’s License required for community-based services
• 6+ months of experience working with adults with SPMI or co-occurring disorders
• Familiarity with Medicaid documentation and service standards
• Knowledge of local resources (housing, employment, food, etc.)

Pay and Schedule

• Job Type: Part-Time (with potential for Full-Time based on caseload)
• Pay Range: $18.00–$20.00 per hour (based on experience)
• Schedule: Flexible, some evening/weekend availability may be required

Location

• Mecklenburg County and surrounding counties, including:
• Union County
• Cabarrus County
• Gaston County
• Lincoln County

Benefits

• Make a real impact using your lived experience
• Join a supportive and mission-aligned team
• Receive ongoing training, supervision, and career growth opportunities
• Help shape the future of recovery-focused services in your community