Peer Specialist

North Central Health Care•Town of Wausau, WI

1d•$17 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

The Peer Specialist provides recovery-oriented support and rehabilitation services for individuals experiencing challenges related to substance use disorders, including those enrolled in the Substance Use Program or residing in Sober Living Homes. Drawing upon personal lived experience in recovery, the Peer Specialist offers encouragement, mentorship, and a sense of belonging to clients. Working collaboratively with the treatment team, the Peer Specialist facilitates a supportive environment that inspires wellness and recovery, while encouraging strength and self-direction. This position supports and empowers clients living with mental health and/or substance use disorders by building trust, encouraging recovery, and fostering a sense of belonging, connection, and independence within the community.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Certification as a Peer Support Specialist through the State of Wisconsin or completion of an approved Peer Specialist training (CCAR or equivalent) within two weeks of hire.
Must possess a valid Wisconsin driver's license and maintain unrestricted driving privileges throughout employment.
Must be authorized to operate any vehicle to transport clients, patients, or staff as required by the position.
Required to obtain and maintain auto insurance coverage at the amounts required by North Central Health Care.
Lived experience in recovery from substance use and/or mental health challenges, with the ability to apply that experience in a professional setting.

Nice To Haves

One or more years of relevant experience in peer support, recovery services, or behavioral health.
Familiarity with recovery-based practices, harm reduction, and trauma-informed care

Responsibilities

Use lived recovery experience to engage, encourage, and empower clients on their recovery journey.
Share personal strategies, coping tools, and recovery principles to model hope and self-efficacy.
Assist clients in setting personal goals, developing individualized recovery plans, and building natural community supports.
Advocate for client needs during team meetings and community appointments.
Model and teach self-advocacy skills to promote client independence and informed decision-making.
Support clients in accessing resources such as housing, treatment, education, and community-based support systems.
Develop and co-facilitate group sessions focused on wellness, relapse prevention, and community integration.
Provide education on recovery concepts, harm reduction, and substance use awareness.
Offer encouragement and feedback to support ongoing motivation and progress toward goals.
Work effectively with interdisciplinary team members.
Maintain consistent, professional communication with clients, staff, and community partners.
Participate in treatment planning, clinical supervision, and program development meetings.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation in accordance with agency and billing requirements.
Ensure confidentiality and compliance with HIPAA standards and agency policies.
Participate in program quality improvement efforts and outcomes monitoring.
Recognize potential crises and offer proactive support to prevent escalation.
Utilize de-escalation and motivational techniques to ensure client and staff safety.
Collaborate with team members to address emergent needs and ensure appropriate follow-up.
Maintain current Peer Specialist certification and continuing education requirements.
Participate in supervision, staff meetings, and relevant professional trainings.
Demonstrate adherence to ethical boundaries, confidentiality, and recovery-based values.
Will transport clients throughout the community when needed.
Other duties as assigned.