Peer Recovery Specialist Trainee - Addiction Recovery

Carle Health•Normal, IL

About The Position

The peer recovery specialist in training is a team member working towards requirements for CPRS/CRSS (certified peer recovery specialist). This individual will be trained and supervised to assist patients in accessing evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders, with a focus on low-threshold access to MAR (medication assisted recovery), treatment programs, and harm-reduction. The peer in training provides mentoring and support to individuals in recovery, using their lived experience to help others navigate treatment and achieve their goals, while also learning the necessary skills and knowledge for the role. At Carle Health, the organization is committed to fostering a workplace where every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered, where passion and purpose come together to positively impact the lives of patients and communities. Carle Health has nearly 17,000 team members and providers supporting patient care across central and southeastern Illinois, including eight award-winning hospitals and a multispecialty provider group with over 1,500 doctors and advanced practice providers. They are also involved in developing future healthcare professionals through Carle Illinois College of Medicine and Methodist College. Several Carle Health facilities hold Magnet® designations for nursing care, and the organization offers opportunities for growth and lifelong careers.

Requirements

Working towards requirements for CPRS/CRSS (certified peer recovery specialist)
Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, (CPRS) within 2 years - Illinois Alcohol and Othe Drug Abuse Professional Certification Association (IAODAPCA)
Nonjudgmental, energetic, positive, harm-reduction approach to assisting patients with Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
Understanding of SUD as a medical condition and the role of MAR in treatment and harm reduction
Ability to use computer information systems, computer literacy, and knowledge of word processing
Ability to interact with patients in a culturally relatable manner
Ability to communicate clearly verbally and in writing
Works well independently and within a team

Responsibilities

Conduct initial brief assessments; introduce and connect patients to recovery programs and services with supervision.
Assist with the facilitation of appointments at outpatient treatment clinics including Carle Addiction Recovery Center (CARC) and external agencies with the community.
Assist with access to other services such as financial counseling, primary care, mental health services, social services, and residential treatment facilities.
Assist with navigating barriers to patients obtaining substance use treatment.
Establish professional relationships with patients and communicate with them to help navigate obstacles to follow up treatment and provide encouragement.
With guidance from supervisor, provide ongoing recovery support service to ensure patient arrives and is engaged by intake staff, and ensure that patient remains engaged in treatment overtime – helping the patient navigate stages of change and practical considerations.
Respond to calls or messages directly from patients and providers, as appropriate.
Use motivational interviewing techniques to communicate with patients in a respectful, culturally appropriate, non-judgmental manner.
Maintain up-to-date information about the effects of various substances, withdrawal symptoms, and treatment options in order to effectively educate and counsel patients.
Provide education/information to patients, families and other interested parties on addiction, signs of overdose, and administration of naloxone products