Certified Peer Specialist (Adult Community Services)

Brightli • Columbia, MO

1d

About The Position

The Certified Peer Specialist provides recovery-focused support to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Drawing on personal experience with mental illness and formal training, the specialist offers hope, inspiration, and guidance to help individuals manage symptoms, navigate complex systems, and reclaim their lives. The role supports growth, independence, wellness, and recovery through person-centered assistance and advocacy.

The position is in Adult Community Services in Columbia, Missouri, and is full time. It requires a Certified Missouri Peer Specialist credential and at least a high school diploma or GED, as well as a valid driver's license and reliable vehicle. The specialist must maintain required certifications, training, and continuing education, accept supervision and direction, and accurately complete computerized clinical documentation.

The role involves light physical work, including occasional lifting or moving objects up to 20 pounds, and may require significant walking or standing or prolonged sitting with pushing or pulling. Burrell Behavioral Health describes its workplace as supportive and focused on employee well-being, belonging, and connection. The organization is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and a Smoke and Tobacco Free Workplace.

Requirements

• Certified Missouri Peer Specialist.
• At least a high school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license and reliable vehicle.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
• Compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to help others.

Responsibilities

• Empower individuals with mental illness to recognize their strengths, set goals, and make informed decisions.
• Support individuals in self-advocacy and accessing resources and services, and advocate on behalf of consumers to improve systems and policies.
• Provide emotional support through listening, validation, encouragement, and sharing personal experiences appropriately.
• Assist during crises by helping de-escalate situations, connecting individuals with services, and supporting coping-skill development.
• Teach practical skills, including problem solving, communication, stress management, symptom management, and relapse prevention.
• Connect individuals with community resources such as housing, employment, education, vocational training, transportation, financial assistance, and peer support groups.
• Guide individuals through service systems by explaining options and benefits, facilitating appointments, and accompanying them to meetings with service providers.
• Promote a recovery-oriented philosophy focused on wellness, self-determination, and person-centered planning.
• Follow ethical guidelines by safeguarding privacy, obtaining consent, avoiding dual relationships, and practicing self-care.
• Read, understand, and follow written, oral, and diagram-based instructions; perform basic math and problem-solving.
• Communicate clearly in writing, individually, and with groups, and build effective professional relationships.
• Use sound judgment in routine and crisis situations involving diverse human needs.
• Complete computerized clinical documentation accurately.
• Maintain required certifications, training, and continuing education, and accept supervision and direction.

Benefits

• Employee Assistance Program with 24/7 counseling, legal assistance, and financial consultation for the employee and household at no cost.
• Mileage reimbursement for work functions requiring travel.
• Employee discounts for hotels, theme parks and attractions, and college tuition.
• Paid time off package for full-time employees.
• Health, dental, vision, retirement, and life benefits for full-time employees.
• Initial, ongoing, comprehensive, and supportive training.
• Advancement opportunities and promotion from within.
• Supportive workplace culture focused on employee well-being, health, and happiness.

What This Job Offers

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