Peer Support Specialist (CSU)

Job Summary

This position supports clients during their stay at the Resource and Crisis Center by providing compassionate care, de-escalation, and coordination of services. The role includes developing discharge and safety plans, offering follow-up support, and connecting clients to community resources. The specialist collaborates with the interdisciplinary team, maintains accurate documentation, and upholds confidentiality and professional standards.

Schedule

The position works three 12-hour shifts per week, including every other weekend (Saturday and Sunday). As a 24/7 facility, both day and night shifts are available:

• Day Shift: 7:00 AM – 7:30 PM
• Night Shift: 7:00 PM – 7:30 AM

Essential Functions

• Engage and collaborate with clients presenting for care at the Resource and Crisis Center
• Provide continuity of care throughout the client’s stay, including discharge planning and post-discharge follow-up
• Encourage client participation in the care process, communicating clearly about available options and aligning with client preferences whenever possible
• Function as an integral member of the interdisciplinary care team to maximize client outcomes
• Welcome clients to the Crisis Center, establishing a safe and supportive environment
• De-escalate crises while interacting with clients with dignity and respect
• Provide referrals and connect clients to preferred community services
• Collaborate with clients to create and implement safety plans
• Assist clients in accessing services and navigating barriers post-discharge
• Share lived experience when appropriate to support client engagement
• Aid clients in understanding and managing their symptoms
• Support connections to self-help groups when appropriate
• Maintain strict confidentiality at all times
• Participate in clinical supervision, staff meetings, and crisis debriefings
• Advocate for client needs, rights, and preferences
• Complete all required electronic and paper documentation accurately and timely
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Job Requirements & Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED required. Associate degree or higher preferred.
• Certifications & Training: MDHHS Certified Peer Support Specialist required.
• Experience: Minimum of two (2) years of experience in mental health, substance use treatment, or crisis services in a hospital or community setting. Familiarity with community resources for mental health and substance use treatment.
• Skills & Competencies: Ability to work independently and collaboratively, strong organizational and time-management skills, effective problem-solving and critical thinking skills, ability to remain calm and focused under pressure, strong interpersonal and communication skills, accurate documentation and record-keeping, Knowledge Requirements: HIPAA compliance, Microsoft 365, Recipient Rights Mental Health Code, Medicaid Manual, Regulatory compliance standards, Core Competencies: Integrity / Building Trust, Customer Focus, Continuous Learning, Communication, Work Standards, Equal Opportunity Statement: Oakland Community Health Network is committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply.