Case Manager (CORE Guide)

firsthand Health•Grand Rapids, MI

About The Position

The Core Guide (internally referred to as a firsthand Guide or fG, and externally listed as a Peer Recovery Specialist) supports individuals living with serious mental illness (SMI) and/or substance use disorder (SUD) through a peer-led, whole-health approach. Working closely with clinicians and other members of the firsthand Care Team, the Core Guide serves as a trusted point of contact, helps individuals connect with healthcare and community supports, advocates for their needs, and supports them in setting and pursuing personal recovery goals. The role involves outreach in community and care settings, care coordination, documentation, and continued training. The role may evolve as firsthand grows. Team members complete a paid training period and must pass assessments before serving individuals. Employment is contingent on attesting to medical clearance requirements, including applicable vaccination or immunity evidence. Exemption requests for valid religious or medical reasons may be reviewed as described by the company. firsthand is unable to offer sponsorship at this time.

Requirements

Lived experience with SMI and/or SUD; personal or family lived experience in recovery and willingness to constructively share the journey with individuals.
Must hold or obtain active National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (NCPRSS) credentialing through NAADAC. Application must be in process within 90 days to 6 months of hire, and full certification must be achieved within one year.
Valid driver’s license in good standing, ability to operate a vehicle, and eligibility to drive under the company’s insurance policy.
Demonstrated proficiency with technical tools such as email, messaging services, and apps; basic proficiency with smartphone and computer technology.
Empathy, compassion, approachability, and personal knowledge of recovery.
Excellent listening, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Patience, persistence, and a desire to support individuals experiencing SMI and/or SUD on their wellness journey.
Comfort working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
Openness to feedback and commitment to professional growth.
Must complete paid training and pass assessments before serving individuals.

Nice To Haves

Experience with direct in-person outreach and engagement for individuals with SMI and SUD.
Expertise in recovery education and coaching.
Understanding of whole-health and trauma-informed approaches to peer support.
Familiarity with local community resources, behavioral health systems, and the criminal justice system, including mental health and drug courts.
Eagerness to expand knowledge about a broad range of health conditions.

Responsibilities

Conduct community outreach to individuals with SMI in homes, community locations, shelters, hospitals, and emergency departments.
Help individuals schedule healthcare appointments, attend and complete clinical visits, and access telehealth.
Build trusting relationships by addressing immediate needs and empowering individuals to identify and pursue personal recovery goals.
Serve as the primary point of contact and use engagement techniques to support ongoing connection with services.
Help address social determinants of health by facilitating access to benefits, resources, and transportation.
Coordinate care, advocate for individuals’ goals, accompany them to appointments, and address post-discharge needs.
Document encounters thoroughly and promptly, and participate in case reviews and team collaboration.
Conduct initial and ongoing telephone outreach.
Participate in ongoing training and professional development.

Benefits

Equity and potential performance bonus as part of the full-time compensation package.
Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and mental wellness coverage.
401(k) with company match.
16 weeks of paid parental leave for both parents.
120 hours of accrued vacation annually during the first year, increasing to 160 hours annually after one year.
Paid training period.
Company vehicle may be provided.

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