Peer Support Specialist

About the Role

The Peer Support Specialist provides advocacy and support to individuals with substance use disorders (SUD) or mental health disorders who are receiving services through DCCCA, Inc. Behavioral Health Services. The primary focus is on establishing and maintaining recovery from addiction, while also supporting stabilization in areas such as physical health, mental health, social, recreational, and life skills coaching.

Responsibilities

• Provide information and support on health and wellness issues, and assist in acquiring new skills.
• Collaborate regularly with other staff members (nurses, case managers, therapists, physicians, etc.) involved in the client’s treatment.
• Engage individuals in treatment, medication compliance, support groups, and other activities of daily living, including referrals to social detox programs.
• Engage family members and other supports as appropriate.
• Assist clients individually and in group settings to establish an Individual Wellness Recovery Action Plan.
• Assist clients in acquiring life skills and employment readiness.
• Support clients in finding decent, affordable housing through self-advocacy.
• Provide concrete assistance with complaint applications, entitlements, child care, transportation to support group meetings, and access to food and clothing pantries.
• Assist clients in connecting with the recovery community, especially through recreational activities in a drug-free environment.
• Use electronic documentation to complete Individual Wellness Recovery Action Plans, participate in treatment planning, and maintain required case file documentation.
• Maintain client charts in a site-visit-ready manner at all times.
• Transport and link clients to required services.
• Share personal recovery experiences, demonstrate and model effective coping techniques and self-help strategies.
• Help clients modify attitudes and behavior patterns by increasing self-awareness and understanding of personal problems.
• Develop discharge/transition plans with the primary counselor as appropriate.
• Regularly drive to various DCCCA locations and other business locations, including early morning or evening hours.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Regular and predictable attendance.
• Adherence to all policies and procedures relating to position certification.