Peer Support | ACT

About the role

The Peer Support Advocate and Associate Behavioral Health Counselor positions at Sanford Health's Bemidji clinic are dedicated to supporting individuals with serious and persistent mental illness and substance abuse challenges. These roles involve collaboration with healthcare professionals to provide peer support and counseling services.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to ensure best practices and high-quality care are maintained across the continuum.
• Provide recovery support to individuals dealing with addictions, assisting them through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery processes.
• Assist patients in connecting with essential social services and support groups.
• Advocate for patients in the care system or other appropriate settings.
• Maintain HIPAA compliance and articulate the recovery process.
• Utilize principles of cultural mindfulness and demonstrate healthy choices for one's own health, recovery, and wellness.
• Conduct scheduled face-to-face counseling sessions in a clinic setting.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate treatment plans in a hospital setting.
• Coordinate and provide treatment for patients in a residential setting.

Requirements

• At least 21 years of age with a primary diagnosis of a mental illness and a history of mental health services.
• Willingness to share personal experience and demonstrate leadership and advocacy skills.
• A high school diploma, GED, or equivalent education.
• A valid driver's license may be required, depending on department/facility.
• Preferred successful completion of the Minnesota Department of Human Services approved Certified Peer Specialist training.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) training and certification within six months of hire.

Qualifications

• Peer Support Advocate: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent; leadership and advocacy skills; willingness to share personal experience; preference for a valid class D driver's license and auto insurance.
• Associate Behavioral Health Counselor: Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in behavioral sciences or related field preferred; at least 4,000 hours of supervised experience in delivering services to persons with mental illness, substance use disorders, or emotional disturbances; or at least 2,000 hours of supervised work experience in the same field.

Skills

Both roles require strong communication skills, empathy, and the ability to build rapport with clients. Knowledge of addiction recovery and peer support principles is beneficial.

Benefits

Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, work/life balance benefits, and a generous time off package.

Pay

Peer Support Advocate: $19.50 - $26.50 per hour
Associate Behavioral Health Counselor: $23.00 - $36.00 per hour

Schedule

Full time, 8-hour shifts, Monday through Friday.