Certified Peer Recovery Specialist - Ames

Primary Health CareAmes, IA
Hybrid

About The Position

Primary Health Care (PHC) is seeking a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist to provide one-on-one peer support and serve as a role model for peers in substance use and/or mental health recovery. This role assists individuals in gaining independence and mastery over their recovery process. The CPRS collaborates with healthcare and program team members to provide support. PHC's mission is to provide healthcare and supportive services to all, regardless of insurance, immigration status, or ability to pay. PHC offers a spectrum of medical and dental services including family practice, behavioral health, HIV care and services, and pharmacy. PHC’s Homeless Support Services is the entry point for serving people experiencing homelessness in Polk County. Enabling services are available to help patients with benefits enrollment, case management, transportation, translation, and patient education. This position is for Ames & Marshalltown.

Requirements

  • Completion of high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Demonstrates competency in personal recovery and use of coping skills.
  • Lived experience in substance use disorder, mental illness, or homelessness.
  • Understands and applies principles of trauma informed and culturally competent care.
  • Knowledge of local community and housing resources.
  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Team oriented.
  • Proficiency using computers including Microsoft Office applications and ability to learn the electronic health record and/or homeless management information systems.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a diverse group of individuals.
  • Problem solving skills.
  • Demonstrates professionalism with ability to remain composed in high stress situations and show empathy.
  • Peer Recovery Specialist Certification from Iowa Board of Certification
  • Current Mandatory Reporter Training: Child Abuse and Dependent Adult Abuse recognized by the State of Iowa
  • Valid Iowa Chauffeur’s License (Class D)

Nice To Haves

  • Familiarity with case management systems as a participant or professional.
  • Work experience with vulnerable populations.
  • Work experience in a community health center.

Responsibilities

  • Provides one-on-one support to assist peers in assessing needs, setting goals for recovery, establishing support networks, and developing relapse prevention plans.
  • Support may be provided in person, virtually, or telephonically at PHC locations or other mutually agreed upon appropriate locations.
  • May transport peers to assist in their recovery process based on department needs.
  • Assists peers to work with their treatment team and/or case manager to achieve their goals including setting appointments, making referrals, and providing education about resources.
  • Provides continuity of communication between peers, care providers, and social supports.
  • Maintains accurate and complete peer support documentation.
  • Advocates for the needs and the perspectives of peers to support their goals and recovery.
  • Teaches the value of every individual’s recovery experience, and emphasizes strength of the peer’s voice throughout the recovery process.
  • Participates in community events and presentations.
  • Participates in performance improvement activities to evaluate programs and service systems.

Benefits

  • Generous PTO accrual (equal to 4 weeks at end of 1st year)
  • Paid holidays
  • License/certification fee reimbursement
  • Paid time off for continuing education
  • Continuing education reimbursement
  • Tuition reimbursement program
  • 401k with company match
  • Medical insurance - PHC Pays, on average, 80% of medical premiums for all plan types (employee, employee + family, etc.)
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life & disability insurance
  • Flexible spending & health savings accounts
  • Supplemental accident & critical illness insurance
  • Discounts on pet insurance
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