Certified Peer Specialist - CPS-MH, CPS-AD, CARES - Tues-Sat 11:00am-7:45pm

Claratel Behavioral Health • Decatur, GA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Claratel Behavioral Health is hiring a Certified Peer Specialist for the DeKalb Regional Crisis Center in Decatur, Georgia. The center provides crisis intervention, stabilization, withdrawal management, walk-in evaluations, temporary observation, short-term stabilization, crisis counseling, and discharge planning to adults experiencing mental health challenges and substance use disorders.

The Certified Peer Specialist uses personal recovery experience and training to support people navigating crisis situations. The role provides advocacy, encouragement, peer support, and resource navigation to help clients move toward stabilization and recovery. The position works with clinical and support staff and helps clients develop self-directed recovery goals.

Work takes place in a fast-paced crisis environment and may involve interaction with individuals exhibiting high-risk or unpredictable behavior. The employee must complete CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute) training. Regular standing and walking, as well as occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds, are required. Reliable transportation and professionalism are essential. Pre-employment drug screening and successful completion of a criminal history background check are required.

Requirements

• Georgia Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) or Certified Addiction Recovery Empowerment Specialist (CARES) certification.
• At least 6 months of experience working or volunteering as a peer support specialist.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic computer and documentation skills.
• Understanding of recovery principles, client engagement, and care coordination.
• Ability to complete CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute) training.
• Reliable transportation and commitment to professionalism.

Nice To Haves

• At least 2 years of experience in a crisis or behavioral health setting.
• Experience facilitating group sessions and developing individualized recovery plans.
• Compassionate communication, strong interpersonal skills, ability to relate to people from diverse backgrounds, calmness under pressure, and a passion for recovery.

Responsibilities

• Provide early engagement, orientation, and emotional support to clients during crisis intake.
• Lead and co-facilitate recovery-focused groups, including groups on Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAP), discharge planning, and community resources.
• Offer peer-driven counseling, skill-building, and problem-solving support.
• Work with clinical teams, discharge planners, nurses, and other staff to provide holistic, compassionate care.
• Support individuals in developing self-directed recovery goals.
• Assist with Georgia Supportive Housing Surveys and aftercare follow-up.
• Document client interactions and progress accurately in electronic medical records.
• Educate families and caregivers about recovery models and advocate for client-centered care.
• Follow the CPS Code of Ethics and maintain a trauma-informed, recovery-oriented approach.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED