Mental Health Peer Provider (233)

HELEN FARABEE CENTER•Graham, TX

1d•$11 - $0•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of the supervising QPS and LPHA, this position is responsible for the delivery of support services to individuals with severe and persistent mental illness, as defined by the state authority, The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Services must be provided in accordance with the Performance Contract, Community Service Standards, HFC policy and procedures, Medicaid standards, and HHSC guidelines. Applicant must be able to pass a background check. The Peer Provider provides support services, serves as a consumer advocate, and provides individuals receiving services information and peer support in an outpatient setting. The Peer Provider will perform a wide range of tasks to assist individuals in regaining control over their own lives and over their own recovery process. These tasks may include recovery and wellness support, mentoring and advocacy. Assisting an individual in his or her recovery can include but is not limited to individual and group sessions. Peer Provider will model personal responsibility, self-advocacy and hopefulness by sharing their recovery story to help individuals identify and experience recovery in his or her own life. The Peer Provider will support individuals and learning teams (staff and community) providing hope, encouragement, support, self-determination and connection to the community. Teamwork, initiative and positive example in work habits are expected at all times. This position requires an aptitude for working with severely mentally ill, often impoverished people; and for seeing this as work in which we take great pride. The Mental Health Peer Specialist II should have experience and knowledge of what it is like to live with mental illness as well as a basic understanding of the importance of psychotherapeutic medications and adherence to treatment plans. HFC incorporates principles of trauma-informed care, which includes cultural sensitivity, in all areas of service delivery. All job descriptions include the responsibility to learn about and implement trauma-informed practices within the scope of work for the position. Reassignment is a condition of employment that may occur at the employer’s discretion. Work location and hours could change based on contract and program needs.

Requirements

Graduation from a standard high school or GED.
Eligible for certification as a Mental Health Peer Specialist according to the State Authority’s guidelines and ViaHope policies and procedures.
One year of successful treatment for a mental health issue.
Willingness to disclose lived experience and work toward recovery.
Valid driver’s license and insurable to drive Center vehicles.
Must pass and maintain all Center mandated trainings.
Must obtain certification as a Mental Health Peer Specialist (MHPS) within eighteen months of employment.
Knowledge of programs for persons with behavioral and intellectual challenges.
Knowledge of peer philosophy and role.
Knowledge of recovery models.
Knowledge of trauma informed care.
Skill in sharing personal challenges.
Skill in listening.
Skill in documenting and monitoring interactions with persons served.
Ability to write progress notes according to standard with acceptable spelling and grammar.
Display a customer service orientation; at all times treating patients as equals and partners.
Ability to work in teams.
Ability to follow policies and procedures.
Ability to work with persons in challenging situations.
Ability to communicate effectively.
Ability to relate verbal instructions.
Ability to communicate in a courteous and effective fashion with co-workers, individuals served and families, agencies and the public.
Skilled in the use of network computers, word processing, database software, SmartCare, as it relates to documenting patient and family contacts.

Nice To Haves

Experience and knowledge of what it is like to live with mental illness.
Basic understanding of the importance of psychotherapeutic medications and adherence to treatment plans.

Responsibilities

Provide support services to individuals with severe and persistent mental illness.
Serve as a consumer advocate.
Provide individuals receiving services information and peer support in an outpatient setting.
Assist individuals in regaining control over their own lives and recovery process.
Provide recovery and wellness support, mentoring, and advocacy.
Conduct individual and group sessions.
Model personal responsibility, self-advocacy, and hopefulness by sharing recovery stories.
Support individuals and learning teams (staff and community) by providing hope, encouragement, support, self-determination, and connection to the community.
Demonstrate teamwork, initiative, and positive work habits.
Learn about and implement trauma-informed practices within the scope of work.