Peer Support Specialist (ACT Team)

Description Job Summary: The incumbent will provide Peer Support (PS) services to adults within the ACT (Assertive Community Treatment) program. Peer Support services are consumer centered services with a rehabilitation and recovery focus designed to promote skills for coping with and managing psychiatric symptoms while facilitating the utilization of natural resources and the enhancement of community living skills. Activities included must be intended to achieve the identified goals and objectives as set forth in the consumer’s individualized treatment plan. The structured, scheduled activities provided by this service emphasize the opportunity for consumers to support each other in the restoration and expansion of the skills and strategies necessary to move forward in recovery. PS is a face-to-face intervention with the consumer present. Services can be provided individually or in a group setting. The majority of PS contacts must occur in community locations where the person lives, works, attends school and/or socializes. The position reports directly to the ACT Team Coordinator. Major Job Responsibilities Helps the consumer develop a network for information and support from others who have been through similar experiencesAssists the consumer with regaining the ability to make independent choices and to take a proactive role in treatment including discussing questions or concerns about medication, diagnoses or treatment approaches with their treating clinicianAssists the consumer with identifying and effectively responding to or avoiding identified precursors or triggers that result in functional impairmentsWorks in conjunction with other mental health center staff and participates in interdisciplinary team meetingsMeets deadlines for daily paperworkProvides quality documentationPerforms other duties as deemed appropriate by immediate supervisor or designeeCompletes all required trainings as assignedComplies with ELC policies and procedure Requirements Education and/or Experience: Must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalentCertification in the State of Kansas to provide the service (which includes criminal, abuse/neglect registry and professional background checks, and completion of a state approved standardized basic training program)The provider must self-identify as a present or former primary consumer of mental health services Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Ability to relate and work creatively and energetically with consumersRelates a positive approach to complex mental health issuesCommunicates directly and effectively in a cooperative mannerAbility to establish effective working relationships with staff and consumersAbility to be sensitive to cultural and ethnic differencesAbility to safely perform major job responsibilities with or without reasonable accommodations