Forensic ACT Peer Specialist

Core Responsibilities

• Serve as a recovery role model by sharing lived experiences in a respectful, purposeful, and trauma-informed manner.
• Engage participants in one-on-one and group peer support activities that promote recovery, reduce isolation, and enhance community integration.
• Support individuals in navigating reentry, probation/parole, and court compliance, while promoting recovery-focused strategies for reducing justice involvement.
• Collaborate with team members to inform the development and implementation of individualized service plans (ISPs) that reflect the participant’s voice and choice.
• Create crisis prevention and safety plans with participants, incorporating strengths, support networks, and wellness strategies.
• Participate in daily team meetings and contribute lived experience perspectives to inform risk management, crisis response, and recovery strategies.
• Educate individuals about their rights, recovery options, and self-advocacy practices.
• Facilitate peer-led groups focused on empowerment, recovery, harm reduction, conflict resolution, and self-care.
• Advocate with external systems (e.g., housing, social services, probation/parole) to support the individual’s recovery goals and reduce barriers.
• Document services provided in accordance with OMH, Medicaid, and agency policies using the Electronic Health Record (EHR).

Qualifications

• A high school diploma or equivalent required.
• Must identify as a person with lived experience in recovery from a mental health condition, substance use disorder, justice involvement or combination.
• Certified Peer Specialist (OMH) or Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA – OASAS) required or must obtain provisional certification within 90 days and achieve full certification within 18 months of hire.
• One year of demonstrated recovery and three letters of reference required for certification applications.
• Previous experience in justice-involved, community-based, or ACT/FACT programs preferred.
• Must have a valid NYS Driver’s License and reliable transportation.