Peer Support Specialist

About the role

The Guidance Center, a recognized leader in our field since 1958, provides a broad range of services that help children, adults, and families unlock potential and build better lives. With 25 programs, we offer treatment, prevention, growth, and education services to more than 15,000 people annually. As a Peer Support Specialist, you will join our Adult Behavioral Health (ABH) team to deliver peer support services consistent with Medicaid guidelines, promote and model recovery, and assist consumers in developing skills for community living, health, wellness, education, and employment.

Public speaking and committee work within and outside the agency are required. Regular business hours are 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, with some evening and weekend hours required for special events.

Responsibilities

• Deliver peer support services to individual consumers or groups, consistent with Medicaid guidelines.
• Promote and model recovery and assist consumers in developing skills to access community resources, live independently, improve health and wellness, continue education, and pursue meaningful work.
• Share personal recovery stories with consumers, groups, and at public speaking engagements.
• Participate in training and supervision to enhance effectiveness and understanding of recovery principles, peer support, and self-determination.
• Provide direct assistance with access to community resources, facilitate educational workshops, support groups, and recovery-oriented activities for consumers and their families.
• Engage in public speaking and committee work within and outside the agency.

Requirements

• Experience as a recipient of community mental health services and willingness to use personal recovery experience to help others.
• Willingness to share personal recovery stories in individual, group, and public speaking settings.
• Possess and retain a Chauffeur’s license and meet eligibility driving requirements as defined by the current insurance company.
• Demonstrate a nonjudgmental, culturally competent approach sensitive to the needs of people with mental illness and their families.
• Ability to establish working relationships with consumers, provide direct assistance with community resources, and facilitate workshops and support groups.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and comfort interacting with the public under various circumstances.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to complete tasks within established timeframes.
• Valid Michigan driver’s license and a good driving record.
• Willingness to become certified by the State of Michigan as a Peer Support Specialist within six months of hire.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefit package including affordable medical plans, employer-paid dental, vision, and long-term disability.
• 401(K) with employer contribution.
• Flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care.
• Paid time off and 11 paid holidays.
• Eligibility for biweekly incentives.

Pay

This position is classified as salary grade 102A, with hourly rates starting at $19.57. The estimated salary varies based on transferable work experience and qualifications.