PEER SPECIALIST

Onondaga County (NY)•Syracuse, NY

41d

About The Position

The work involves responsibility for performing outreach, education, support, and referrals for individuals experiencing substance use disorders. An employee in this class is responsible for identifying, engaging, and retaining individuals in need of peer support services. Direct supervision is received from a Peer Supervisor. Supervision is not typically a function of this class. Does related work as required.

Requirements

Candidates must be high school graduates or holders of a high school equivalency diploma issued by an education department of any of the states of the United States or holders of a comparable diploma issued by any territory commonwealth, or possession of the United States or by the Canal Zone or holders of a report from the United States Armed Forces certifying successful completion of the tests related to general education development, high school level at time of appointment; or,
One (1) year of work experience participating in substance use disorder self-help activities, peer support or advocacy programs; or,
Permanent or provisional certification by the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (OASAS) as a Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) at the time of appointment or be willing to pursue certification within one year of hire.
Good knowledge of effective skills for managing behavioral health symptoms.
Working knowledge of local agencies and Health Department services.
Ability to maintain personal wellness and utilize recovery tools.
Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
Ability to understand and interpret written information.

Responsibilities

Conducts street and community outreach to individuals who might not otherwise seek assistance for issues related to substance abuse.
Assists individuals in identifying, developing and practicing personalized coping and crisis management skills.
Helps individuals develop care plans and assists with carrying out tasks defined in the plan.
Acts as a referral agent for patients to other Health Department and community-based programs and services.
Assists participants in understanding and accessing available community supports and resources.
Coordinates and collaborates with care managers and patient navigators from community agencies.
Advocates for the needs of clients and provides education and training on their perspectives to other service providers.
Maintains contact with clients, including phone contact and field visits.
Completes required documentation, including progress notes and care plans, in accordance with agency standards.
Participates in public health preparedness activities as trained and assigned.
Utilizes appropriate methods for interacting effectively and professionally with persons of all ages and from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, educational, racial and ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, lifestyles and physical abilities.