Certified Peer Specialist Outpatient

COMHAR INC•Philadelphia, PA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

COMHAR is a nonprofit, community-based organization dedicated to providing health and human services that empower individuals, families, and communities to live healthier, self-determined lives. We are currently seeking a Certified Peer Specialist to join our Enhanced Outpatient Program team in Philadelphia. The Enhanced Outpatient Program provides behavioral health services including outpatient therapy, medication management, peer support, and care coordination services to adults and select adolescents. The Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) works within a recovery-oriented framework to provide peer support services that promote hope, empowerment, wellness, and self-determination. This role supports individuals experiencing mental health and/or substance use challenges through individual and group interactions, community engagement, harm reduction support, and recovery-focused skill development. The CPS serves as a positive role model by sharing lived experience and supporting individuals in achieving their personal recovery goals through trauma-informed and culturally competent care.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required
Current Pennsylvania Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) Certification required
Minimum of 1 year of direct mental health or substance use service experience (paid or volunteer)
Experience working with individuals experiencing mental health and/or substance use challenges
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Knowledge of recovery-oriented and trauma-informed care principles
Ability to engage individuals through empathy, advocacy, and lived experience
Familiarity with community resources and harm reduction practices
Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems

Responsibilities

Serve as a recovery role model by sharing lived experience, hope, and practical coping strategies.
Provide one-on-one peer support and facilitate recovery-focused group sessions.
Assist individuals in developing skills identified in their recovery plans, including wellness management and positive coping techniques.
Educate and support individuals through the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) process.
Support individuals in areas including social skills, vocational readiness, employment, health and wellness, community integration, and daily living skills.
Connect individuals to community resources, peer supports, and harm reduction services.
Encourage healthy relationships and support individuals in reconnecting with family, friends, and natural supports when appropriate.
Promote recovery awareness and reduce stigma related to mental health and co-occurring disorders through advocacy and education.
Co-facilitate therapeutic groups, including groups supporting individuals participating in Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) services.
Participate actively in team meetings and collaborate with staff to foster a recovery-oriented environment.
Provide support and guidance to new staff regarding peer culture and recovery principles.
Maintain accurate, timely, and thorough documentation of all client interactions.
Perform additional duties as assigned to support program operations and client care.