Peer Specialist - Cortland

About the role

The Peer Specialist plays a vital role in supporting adult individuals with mental health conditions by serving as a role model, educator, and advocate. They provide valuable insight based on personal experience and assist in promoting recovery and community integration. The purpose of Adult Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) is to meet the needs of individuals who have not been well served by traditional service delivery approaches. Grounded in a recovery-oriented practice, ACT offers evidence-based treatment, rehabilitation, case management, and support services through a mobile, multidisciplinary behavioral health treatment team.

This is a full-time position covering Chenango, Cortland, and Madison counties, with a salary range of $21-23 per hour.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a role model for individuals with mental health conditions
• Educate individuals about self-help techniques and self-help group processes
• Teach effective coping strategies based on personal experience
• Assist individuals in developing wellness management skills
• Help individuals clarify rehabilitation and recovery goals
• Assist in the development of community support systems and networks

Requirements

• Must self-identify as actively in recovery from a mental health condition and be willing to share personal mental health recovery journey
• Possess or be willing to become certified from an NYS OMH-approved certified peer specialist certification program
• Strong commitment to recovery-oriented practices and principles
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with individuals, families, and a multidisciplinary team
• Willingness to receive supervision from professional staff
• Driver's License and ability to maintain insurability throughout employment required
• High School Diploma / GED preferred

Benefits

• Student Loan and Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Discounts at the Southern Tier Community Center
• Opportunities for Professional Development
• Agency-Paid CEUs, License Prep Course, and License Exam
• 403(b) with 6% employer contribution
• PTO plus 9 paid holidays
• Childcare Reimbursement
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance (with HSA/FSA Accounts)
• Life Insurance