Peer Specialist

Metrocare is the largest provider of mental health services in North Texas, serving over 55,000 adults and children annually. For over 50 years, Metrocare has provided a broad array of services to people with mental health challenges and developmental disabilities, including behavioral health care, primary care centers, services for veterans and their families, accessible pharmacies, housing, and supportive social services. Alongside clinical care, researchers and teachers from Metrocare’s Altshuler Center for Education & Research advance mental health beyond Dallas County while providing critical workforce to the state.

About the role

The Peer Specialist is an individual in recovery who has been trained to effectively share their lived experience and recovery story to help and support other individuals with their recovery. They provide flexible, community-based services designed to promote empowerment, recovery, and community integration of individuals with severe mental health challenges. The role involves facilitating opportunities for individuals to direct their own recovery and advocacy process, teaching and supporting skill acquisition, promoting knowledge of available service options, and helping develop a sense of wellness and self-worth.

The Peer Support Specialist performs a range of tasks through individual and group sessions to assist consumers in their recovery process, working with adults and families in a trauma-informed and culturally responsive manner. They collaborate with individuals and teams to develop person-centered recovery plans aimed at helping every individual and family achieve their goals.

Responsibilities

• Applies general knowledge of Recovery services to complete small projects or conduct tasks with limited supervision.
• Works with individuals to identify, develop, and access support for community integration and inclusion.
• Supports and teaches recovery tools, models personal responsibility, self-advocacy, and hopefulness.
• Facilitates self-review of progress with each individual during encounters.
• Partners with participants to assess hopes, strengths, accomplishments, and challenges to achieve stated goals.
• Develops recovery plans and support systems to promote self-sufficiency.
• Supports participants in self-managing critical or crisis situations.
• Assists participants in coordinating or choosing relevant supports to arrange services or resources.
• Conducts outreach to individuals who have missed appointments to engage them in treatment.
• Assists in preparation and recording of peer support recovery plans, encounter notes, and other documents using person-first language, adhering to quality and regulatory standards.
• Engages new individuals into services and assists with navigation.
• Provides capability training to model, coach, support, and advocate with participants.
• Escorts participants when necessary, ensuring their safety during events, visits, and interactions.
• Provides linkage to other services within Metrocare.
• Transports individuals as needed; maintains a good driving record.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• GED or high school equivalent (required).
• Individual in recovery (required).
• Active Certified Peer Specialist certification (preferred) or pursuit of certification within one year.
• At least 5 years of active involvement in personal recovery without relapse or crisis (preferred).
• Current State of Texas Driver License or equivalent from another state (must obtain Texas license within three months of employment).
• Liability insurance required if operating a personal vehicle on Center property or for Center business.
• Must be insurable by Center’s liability carrier if operating a Center vehicle or driving a personal car for Center business.
• Acceptable driving record.
• Certification as a Certified Peer Specialist within one year of employment.

Skills

• Strong interpersonal and engagement skills.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to problem solve, exercise good judgment, and make sound decisions.
• Sensitivity to cultural diversity and workplace dynamics.
• Ability to juggle multiple projects with accuracy.
• Exceptional customer service skills, both over the phone and in person.
• Basic math skills.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out duties.
• Ability to remain organized and prioritize work based on urgency and client needs.
• Proficiency with computers, printers, and software (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Ability to utilize the Internet for resources.

Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Retirement plan with employer matching.
• Health Savings Account with employer matching.
• Professional development allowance up to $2,000 per year.
• Bilingual stipend – 6% of base salary.
• Many other benefits.