Peer Specialist

Job purpose

The Peer Specialist helps individuals who have psychiatric disabilities develop a network for information and support. A Peer Specialist can share lived experiences of recovery, share and support the use of recovery tools and model successful recovery behaviors.

Qualifications

- Be at least 21 years of age; - Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent; - Must self-identify as present and/or former person(s)-served of mental health services; (Lived experience) - Must complete a State approved training program and pass a standardized examination. - Meet the minimum requirements to be clinically privileged by FCC Behavioral Health.

Core Job Duties

- Provides individual assistance to person(s)-served in assessing mental health services including accompanying person(s)-served to appointments to address medical or other health needs. - Acts as liaison/advocate between person(s)-served and community resources. - Training, coaching and supporting in daily living skills, including keeping a budget, paying bills and maintaining an independent residence. - Accompanying person(s)-served to activities in the community, if appropriate. - Following-up with person(s)-served regarding appointment, completion of forms, returning forms or receipts and other similar activities. - Maintains and improve professional competencies through in-service training and other educational responsibilities---especially related to co-occurring. - Development of self-help groups outside the agency. - Helping individuals develop skills and resources that foster success. Progress notes written accurately using the PIRP format and in compliance with the 5-Day Rule (and/or site policy). - Accurate and timely completion of group counseling and group education logs. - Ability to effectively utilize computer systems currently employed by FCC. - Maintain/improve professional competencies through training activities and/or other educational means. - Maintain awareness regarding the agency vision and assist staff in continuing motivation and empowerment. - Consistently complies with supervisory directives as it applies to enforcement of facility policies and procedures with person(s)-served. - Establish and maintain effective working relationships with individuals at all levels of the organization. - Listen to others to facilitate an open exchange of ideas and provide for effective communication. - Orally communicate information effectively and accurately. - Assure program operates within the constraints of the agency's certification (CARF, DMH) standards and strategic plan related to clinical care. - Maintain confidentiality, at all times, within the legal framework. Will adhere to established guidelines regarding confidentiality as well as the agency's adopted code of ethics. - Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of person(s)-served as outlined in the agency and site Policies and Procedure Manuals. - Maintain acceptable attendance record, respect break periods and work with supervisor to ensure coverage during any absence. - Exhibit a professional appearance, attitude and demeanor that reflects confidence, positive self-esteem and overall professionalism when working with person(s)-served, co-workers, families and referral sources. - Demonstrate initiative and a "can do" attitude. - Other job duties and special projects as assigned