Recovery Support Specialist - Training (RSS-T) (FT, PT, Pool/PRN)

About the role

We’re not just behavioral health people—we’re crisis people. Connections Health Solutions is a leading provider of immediate-access behavioral health crisis care. Our team combines medical and recovery-oriented treatment to stabilize individuals in crisis and connect them to community-based resources for ongoing recovery. Founded by emergency room psychiatrists Dr. Chris Carson and Dr. Robert Williamson, our model is physician-led and data-driven, drawing upon more than 15 years of crisis care expertise.

Our commitment remains consistent, to improve access, inspire hope, and provide the right support. Our values shape our decisions, define our culture, and foster continuous learning and growth. We accept people as they are, creating safe spaces where they feel valued and respected. We inspire hope by walking with people side-by-side, showing them grace and compassion. We act with intention, holding ourselves and each other accountable, and doing the right thing. We work as one team, trusting and supporting each other. We embrace change and innovation, striving to find better ways to fulfill our mission.

We are on a mission to change the face of behavioral health. Help us save lives and make a difference.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate or co-facilitate group and individual recovery sessions, creating safe spaces for connection and growth.
• Advocate for individuals throughout their treatment, ensuring their needs and perspectives are represented.
• Share personal recovery experiences to inspire, motivate, and empower others.
• Promote trauma-informed care, helping to reduce seclusion and restraint through strong therapeutic relationships.
• Work to lessen the instance of seclusion (if applicable) and restraint by building therapeutic alliance and exercising trauma informed care.
• Connect individuals to community resources that support their unique recovery goals.
• Support and promote multiple pathways to recovery, respecting each person’s chosen approach.
• Collaborate closely with a Multidisciplinary Team throughout all stages of care.
• Document all interactions in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) accurately and promptly.
• Provide encouragement and guidance through appropriate, thoughtful self-disclosure.
• Participate in required training, monthly meetings, and competency maintenance.
• Lead or support daily programming and group activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support recovery services.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Completion of (or enrollment in) the DBDHS 72-hour Peer Recovery Specialist training
• A minimum of 1 (one) year of personal recovery from mental health and/or substance use challenges, or 1 (one) year of experience as a family member supporting a loved one
• Registered with VA Board of Counseling and maintains registration throughout employment
• Agreement to adhere to the Peer Recovery Specialist Code of Ethics
• Must be able to perform Safe Clinch restraint techniques

The Company has a mandatory vaccination policy. All successful applicants must be fully vaccinated, including showing proper documentation, or otherwise be exempt pursuant to the Company’s exemption process prior to their start date as a condition of employment

Must be able to pass Virginia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services (VA DBHDS) background check

Must be able to pass Virginia Department of Social Services (VA DSS) Office of Background Investigations - Central Registry Search

Must be able to obtain a State of Virginia Food Handlers Card

Physical Requirements

• Safely perform physical interventions (e.g., standing, pivoting, reaching, kneeling, lowering to the floor, and supporting another person’s weight)
• Lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lbs. occasionally
• Tolerate prolonged walking, standing, and observation in a fast-paced environment
• Work with individuals who may exhibit agitation, aggression, or unpredictable behavior

Qualifications

It Would Be Great If You Had Behavioral Health/Substance Use Treatment or GMH Recovery experience

Three years or more of personal recovery desired

Completion of specialized peer certifications (WHAM, ASIST, etc.)

Knowledge of evidence-based/person-centered skillsets, such as Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Informed Care, Verbal De-escalation, Harm Reduction, and Person-centered language

Benefits

• Full-time only: Employees (and their families) are offered comprehensive health insurance, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity
• CHS pays for Basic Life, AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability
• Voluntary Life insurance option for employees and their families
• Health Savings Accounts (with $1,000 to $2,000 employer contribution depending on plan)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (health care and dependent care)
• 401k company match after 6 months (50% of deferrals up to 6% of compensation)
• Generous PTO starting at 160 hours accrued annually and 12 recognized company holidays
• Company‑paid parental leave available to eligible employees
• Employee Assistance Program to help with confidential emotional support, work life solutions, financial solutions, legal assistance, or online support
• After 90 days, you are auto enrolled in the 401k Plan

Pay

Virginia pay range $20 - $21 USD

Earn More with Shift Differentials Maximize Your Earnings With Additional Hourly Pay +$2/hr -> Monday-Thursday Nights+$3/hr -> Friday-Sunday Nights+$2/hr -> Saturday-Sunday Days