NC Start Peer Support Specialist

Daymark Recovery Services•Reidsville, NC

79d•Onsite

About The Position

An individual who is or has been a recipient of mental health services with a mental illness. Provides highly individualized services in the community and promotes individual self-determination and decision making. Under indirect supervision, provides consumer education and individual/system advocacy, Self Help skills, Pre-crisis support, Housing assistance, Education/employment support, Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) plan support, and independent/social skills support. The Peer Support Specialist is an integral member of an array of services.

Requirements

Life experience of being diagnosed with a serious mental illness or substance addiction problem, and are currently in recovery, stable, and living without relapses.
High school diploma, or GED.
At least five years of life experience with a serious mental illness or substance addiction.
Self identifies as an individual with a psychiatric or addictions disability.
At least one full year in his/her own life without crisis, relapse, or psychiatric or substance abuse inpatient treatment, or criminal justice involvement.
May not be a family member or related to the consumer.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to make effective use of time and prioritize work assignments.
Ability to communicate effectively with professionals and clients/families.
Ability to make sound decisions in emergency situations.

Nice To Haves

If with an approved WRAP facilitator or trainer, this can include skill maintenance and enhancement around meals and social activities to build peer relationships where eating is not the core activity.

Responsibilities

Ensures that consumer/legally responsible person receives information regarding rights and assistance as needed in exercising rights.
Assists consumer/legally responsible person in obtaining information about available service providers.
Helps the consumer make informed independent choices and develop a network of supportive individuals.
Assist the consumer with development, modification and use of the crisis plan, advanced directives, and provide relapse prevention support.
Supports the consumer to maintain stable housing, improve housing situation, and enhance independent living skills.
Assists the client in gaining information about going back to school or job training.
Developing and implementing a Mental Health Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP).
If with an approved WRAP facilitator or trainer, this can include skill maintenance and enhancement around meals and social activities to build peer relationships where eating is not the core activity.