Certified Peer Specialist

Access: Supports for Living•Poughkeepsie, NY

About The Position

At Access: Supports for Living and our Access: Network partners, we help people live the healthiest and fullest lives possible - and we support our staff in doing the same. Across our family of organizations, team members work in mental health, substance use, disability, employment, housing, and family services, doing meaningful work in a collaborative and respectful environment. We offer supportive leadership, opportunities to learn and grow, competitive benefits, and the chance to build a career with purpose. If you’re looking for work that matters and a team that values what you bring, the Access Network is a great place to be. OVERVIEW OF PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITES: As a CCBHC Certified Peer, you will be a vital part of an integrated behavioral health team, providing hope, support, and guidance to individuals with serious mental illness, developmental disabilities, or substance use disorders. Your voice and perspective matter — you will help bridge the gap between clinical services and real-life recovery through authentic connection and empowerment.

Requirements

Personal lived experience with mental health and/or substance use recovery.
Experience overcoming life challenges while coping with a behavioral health condition.
New York State Peer Certification or Provisional Certification.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Willingness to work evenings/weekends as scheduled.
Ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team.
Peer support experience in a behavioral health or recovery setting.
Knowledge of local community resources and recovery-oriented supports.
Familiarity with trauma-informed and person-centered approaches.
Must be capable to access all rooms in a 2-story home
Able to work in open space floor plan
Must be capable to move throughout work day
Occasional lifting of > _25+ pounds

Responsibilities

Inspire Hope: Welcome individuals into care with warmth, compassion, and the belief that recovery is possible.
Promote Empowerment & Self-Determination: Support individuals in setting and achieving their personal recovery goals.
Model Recovery: Use your own lived experience to foster a recovery mindset and demonstrate what is possible.
Build Meaningful Relationships: Establish mutual, respectful, and trusting partnerships.
Provide Strength-Based Support: Help individuals identify and build on their personal strengths and life skills.
Encourage Community Integration: Support individuals in accessing community resources and building meaningful connections.
Resource Connector: Guide individuals toward community supports and services.
Ally & Confidant: Offer nonjudgmental listening and shared experiences.
Mentor & Role Model: Help others envision and navigate their own recovery paths.
Problem Solver & Planner: Assist with identifying barriers and exploring strategies to overcome them.
Educator & Tour Guide: Introduce individuals to the principles of recovery, including stages, tools, and culture.