Peer Specialist

Liberty Resources•Syracuse, NY

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Liberty Resources is seeking a part-time Peer Specialist for its Onondaga Crisis Residence Program. The Crisis Residence Program provides a therapeutic, community-based residential setting for adults experiencing a mental health crisis. Peer Support Services are delivered by staff with lived experience of mental health challenges who are willing to share their stories, alongside Crisis Support Staff. Services aim to stabilize guests, support their safe return to the community, and help prevent unnecessary emergency department visits and hospitalizations. The Peer Support Specialist supports guests experiencing challenges that may increase the risk of symptoms escalating beyond what can be managed at home or in the community. Using recovery-oriented services, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and intentional peer support, the specialist provides recovery support and contributes to the operation of the Supportive Crisis Residence. The position works with guests and community providers through a person-centered, self-directed approach to coordinate supports for success in the community. The role is scheduled Saturday through Monday, 4 p.m. to 12 a.m., with overnight program coverage required as reflected in the staffing plan. The starting rate is $20.00–$24.00 per hour, depending on certification status.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
Personal experience with emotional, behavioral, addiction, or co-occurring disorders, or experience as a parent or primary caregiver of a child with these disorders.
Certified or provisionally certified by the Office of Mental Health as a Certified Peer Specialist (NYCPS), Family Peer Advocate (FPA), Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA), or a peer specialist who has completed all required state-approved training for their title; alternatively, must be willing to complete the certification process within six months of employment.
Respect, compassion, and a high level of comfort around people experiencing psychiatric crisis.
Ability to use critical-thinking, problem-solving, and de-escalation skills to help create and maintain an environment that promotes recovery.

Nice To Haves

Relevant work experience in a behavioral health or related setting, preferably using the recovery model.
One to two years of personal recovery experience.
Current or provisional certification as a Certified Peer Specialist (NYCPS), Family Peer Advocate (FPA), or Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA), or completion of state-approved training for the relevant title.

Responsibilities

Provide required services to Supportive Crisis Residence guests, including assistance with personal care and activities of daily living, peer support, engagement, safety planning, integration of direct care and support services, case management, medication management, and medication monitoring.
Provide peer support consistent with Peer and Recovery-Oriented models of support.
Provide crisis intervention and help individuals view crises differently and use wellness tools to prevent future crises or reduce their intensity.
Work with Health Homes, hospitals, and treatment providers using a person-centered, self-directed approach to develop integrated plans of care covering mental health, physical health, substance use services, and community supports.
Provide advocacy, peer support, referrals, and linkage services to program guests as needed.
Provide program coverage in accordance with the staffing plan, including overnights as required.
Complete required documentation within program timelines, including Individual Service Plans, Social Determinants of Health Assessments, Strengths and Needs Assessments, Safety Plans, Daily Progress Notes, and Discharge Summaries.