Peer Recovery Support Specialist

Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one peer support to individuals with substance use disorders, utilizing lived experience to establish trust and encourage hope.
• Aid clients in identifying and setting recovery goals, offering emotional support, and helping them navigate challenges in their recovery process.
• Facilitate peer recovery groups or support meetings, encouraging clients to share experiences and support each other.
• Act as a role model for individuals in recovery, promoting healthy coping strategies, decision-making, and positive lifestyle changes.
• Help clients access necessary resources, such as housing, employment, healthcare, and social services, by linking them to appropriate community agencies and resources.
• Assist with the development of individualized recovery plans, ensuring clients understand the steps they need to take to maintain sobriety and well-being.
• Collaborate with clinical teams to ensure clients receive comprehensive care, including therapy, counseling, and medical treatment.
• Provide education about the recovery process, coping skills, relapse prevention, and maintaining sobriety.
• Encourage clients to actively participate in support groups, 12-step programs, and other recovery-focused activities.
• Support clients in identifying and managing triggers, high-risk situations, and cravings.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential records of interactions with clients, documenting progress and any changes in treatment or recovery status.
• Participate in case meetings with clinical staff to ensure continuity of care and to update progress on recovery goals.
• Track and report on client outcomes, contributing to program evaluation and improvement.
• Work closely with the clinical team, including counselors, therapists, and case managers, to ensure clients receive comprehensive, holistic care.
• Participate in regular supervision meetings and team training to enhance skills and maintain compliance with program standards.

Qualifications

• Lived experience in recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) or addiction is required.
• Peer Support Specialist certification (e.g., Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, CPRS, or similar) preferred or must be obtained within [X months] of hire.
• Knowledge of the 12-step program and other recovery methodologies.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries while offering empathy and support.
• Ability to work with diverse populations, including individuals with complex needs.
• Basic knowledge of community resources for individuals in recovery (housing, employment, legal, healthcare, etc.).

Education

• A High school diploma with experience noted below is required. An associate’s degree in a Healthcare related field is preferred.

Experience/Skills

• Experience working in a behavioral health or substance use disorder treatment setting.
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care principles and practices.
• Experience facilitating group support or recovery meetings.
• Bilingual in [language] (if applicable).

Physical Effort

• Requires sitting for long periods of time, viewing computer monitors, and keyboarding and must be able to lift 20 pounds.

Background

• Must pass all Federal and State background checks. Other background checks will be conducted for licenses and certifications according to company policy.

Schedule

• Flexible schedule based on availability.

Benefits

• This position does not offer benefits.