CS Therapist I - Certified Peer Support Specialist (HIDTA Grant funded)
About The Position
Prince William Community Services (PWCS) is seeking a dedicated Clinical Services Caseworker Associate - Peer Support Specialist to join an innovative new initiative aimed at improving the lives of justice-involved individuals with opioid use disorder. This role offers you the chance to be a vital connector, supporting people in their most vulnerable moments and guiding them toward recovery, stability, and a second chance. In collaboration with the Prince William Regional Adult Detention Center and George Mason University’s Jail MAT (JMAT) program, this HIDTA Grant-funded role directly supports individuals receiving Medications for Opioid Use Disorder while incarcerated and continues that support through their reentry into the community. As a Peer Support Specialist, you’ll provide group and one-on-one motivational support, overdose prevention education, and reentry planning. In addition, you’ll help ensure participants have access to the services they need post-release, from continued MAT services to transportation, housing, employment, and more. Your lived experience will not only offer hope and connection but also improve outcomes like reduced overdose risk and lower recidivism, making a lasting impact on individual lives and community health. This position qualifies for a $5,000 hiring bonus. This bonus will be paid in two equal installments as funds permit. The first installment of $2500 is payable after (90) days of employment have been completed. The final $2,500 installment will be payable following the completion of the probationary period .
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- 5 years of related experience providing support services to individuals challenged with substance use issues.
- Must possess a valid driver's license
- Must pass DMV record check
- Must pass TB test
- Offer of employment is contingent upon the candidate passing a fingerprint-based National Criminal History Record Check
- Certification in First Aid and Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation, as required
- A search of the registry of founded complaints of child abuse and neglect maintained by the Department of Social Services.
Nice To Haves
- Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, or have completed 72-hour DBHDS Peer Recovery Specialist training, and are able to sit for the exam
- Lived experience with substance use and/or mental health-related challenges.
- Ability to connect and develop a rapport with the client population.
- Have received training in providing person-centered, strengths-based support services
- Experience in completing documentation necessary to maintain client records, including wellness recovery plans and progress notes.
- Bilingual/Spanish-speaking
Responsibilities
- Facilitate peer-led support groups and individual mentoring inside the Adult Detention Center.
- Provide overdose prevention education and distribute naloxone kits.
- Collaborate with jail, GMU, PWCS Staff, and other community-based partners to support treatment continuity.
- Offer reentry navigation and warm handoffs to community MAT services and social supports.
- Help participants meet court-mandated goals and coordinate with supervision officers.
- Advocate for client needs in accessing housing, employment, medical care, and more.
Benefits
- Retirement from the Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
- 401a and 457 retirement savings and investment plans
- Paid Annual Leave
- Paid Personal Leave
- Paid Sick Leave
- Paid Holidays
- Optional Group Medical and Dental Health Plans
- Optional Group Life Insurance
- An Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Career Development Opportunities
- Full time positions with Prince William County Government qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
