Peer Specialist, Veterans Services

Primary Job Function and Responsibilities

• Provides support and guidance to fellow veterans, leveraging their own lived experience to help others navigate recovery and wellness goals.
• Builds relationships, offers support, and connects veterans with resources.
• Promotes self-determination, recovery, self-advocacy, and self-direction; assists individuals in identifying strengths, wellness goals, setting objectives, and identifying barriers.
• Establishes rapport and trust with veterans through shared experiences, acting as a role model for recovery.
• Affords assistance in obtaining information about veterans' benefits (SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, etc.).
• Identifies and engages with veterans who may benefit from peer support services, including outreach to those in various settings like hospitals, community centers, or even on the streets.
• Engages individuals in outpatient programs and services to encourage recovery.
• Models self-advocacy skills; connects veterans with relevant VA and community resources, such as mental health services, housing assistance, and employment programs.
• Shares his or her own personal story to model how to choose, obtain, and maintain stability.
• Supports individuals in making informed decisions about treatment, housing, benefits, and building community connections.
• Supports the individuals in developing crisis plans and safety plans.
• Maintains accurate records of interactions and reports relevant information to the treatment team.
• Assists in overcoming barriers to recovery and addressing challenges.
• Seeks supervision and consultation as needed.
• Accepts and employs suggestions for improvement.
• Maintains confidential files containing required information.
• Provides timely documentation that meets requirements of various funding sources including, Medicaid, and others.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent and Peer Specialist Certification through State of Alabama Department of Mental Health.
• A crucial requirement is the peer specialist's own recovery journey from mental health challenges or substance use.
• Must be 23 years of age, maintain a valid Alabama driver license and an acceptable driving record, and have proof of current liability insurance.
• Proof of status as a current or former service in one of the five branches of United States Armed Services.
• Knowledge of psychiatric disorders in the adult population.
• Knowledge of Veteran-specific issues.
• Knowledge of cultural diversity.
• Knowledge of behavior management, crisis intervention and interventions common to acute psychotic consumers; as well as, to non-violent crisis intervention practices.
• Knowledge of psychiatric rehabilitation principles.
• Knowledge of available community employment resources.
• Knowledge of educational methods appropriate to adults with psychiatric disorders.
• Experience providing employment services, and knowledge of the work world are preferred.
• Ability to work as an effective team player is essential.