Peer Specialist - Forensic PATH Program

Thurston Mason BH-ASO/OHRS•Lacey, WA

2d•$25 - $32•Hybrid

About The Position

Olympic Health and Recovery Services is a dynamic organization serving the most vulnerable in our communities. Join us in our mission to provide access to an effective, reliable safety net of behavioral health crisis and recovery support services throughout our region. We take pride in our staff that come to work with us and are seeking a Peer Specialist with a passion for supporting individuals experiencing mental health and/or substance use disorders who are at risk of incarceration. The Peer Specialist position serves as part of the OHRS Forensic Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (FPATH) team, providing outreach and engagement to connect people to services who are at risk of referral for Competency Evaluations. FPATH provides voluntary, person-centered, low-barrier, assertive and intensive case management for individuals identified as at risk for needing additional Competency Restoration Services. This position works to build relationships with eligible people in the community and help connect them with supports including housing, basic needs, Behavioral Health, and health care to reduce the likelihood of future criminal legal system and Competency Services involvement and aim to increase long-term stability and wellness.

Requirements

Washington State Certified Peer Counselor (CPC) or Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) is required.
Washington State Dept of Health (DOH) Registered Agency Affiliated Counselor or Peer Support Specialist license is required.
Lived experience of mental health recovery or substance use recovery and the willingness to share their own experiences.
Experience working with individuals with behavioral health, substance, use, and criminal justice
High School diploma or GED required.
Must have satisfactory background checks as required by state and federal contracts.
Must be able to obtain clearance at Thurston County Jail, Mason County Jail, and Western State Hospital.
Must have satisfactory Motor Vehicle Report.
Valid Washington State driver's license and proof of insurance or have requested and obtained an appropriate accommodation.
Knowledge and ability to utilize computer systems to include electronic health records system and Microsoft office Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.
Ability to promote activities that foster recovery, self-efficacy, and empowerment.
Ability to utilize the Recovery Model, Evidence Based Practices, and effectively engage with program participants.
Ability to navigate and access systems related to, but not limited to, food, cash, and other medical public benefits through Apple Health, DSHS, and Social Security Department.
Ability to navigate and access systems , resources and services related to Behavioral health Services, medical and/or dental care, and basic needs.
Ability to navigate and access systems , resources and services related to emergency, transitional, supportive, and permanent housing.
Ability to utilize various skills, methodologies, and approaches including motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, harm reduction approach.
Familiarity with trauma-informed care for people with complex needs.
Familiarity and knowledge of best practices for alcohol/drug abuse treatment and prevention programs, mental health and developmental disabilities programs as well as with local social service agencies.
Knowledge of symptoms, common behavioral and social characteristics, and other manifestations of the behavioral health challenges affecting the population served.
Knowledge of the various presentations of behavioral health related illnesses the participants may experience.
Ability to work in high stress, high demand environment while communicating clearly and effectively.
Ability to write clear and concise clinical documents, reports, and correspondence including documentation of all client interactions utilizing DAP style documentation within 24 business hours.
Ability to work collaboratively utilizing strong written and verbal communication skills as part of a multidisciplinary team while respectfully managing differences, opposing perspectives, opinions, and interests.
Ability to remain flexible and adaptable to change while maintaining effective time management skills.
Knowledge of and ability to recognize compassion fatigue and the need for self-care.
Strong critical thinking skills, ability to conceptualize and implement creative solutions.
Promote and champion the values of partnership, teamwork, compassion and integrity in all dealings within and outside of OHRS.

Nice To Haves

Two (2) years working as a peer counselor is preferred.

Responsibilities

Conducts outreach, in-reach, and engagement with FPATH eligible referrals and FPATH participants.
Shares lived experience regarding criminal justice involvement, overcoming barriers, modeling self-help and wellness activities to empower participants on their recovery journey, when appropriate.
Provide supportive navigation, advocacy, information, and coaching during enrollment processes.
Provide education and/or training to assist participants in acquiring skills that will maintain community stability and independence.
Conducts regular community-based street and/or encampment outreach in partnership with existing PATH programs, Homeless Continuum of Care organizations, or other local programs that locate, enroll, and/or engage FPATH eligible referrals and FPATH participants.
Conducts regular in-reach to local jails, hospitals, crisis facilities, court systems, and additional agencies to locate, enroll, and/or engage FPATH eligible referrals and FPATH participants.
Builds rapport with FPATH eligible referrals and completes enrollment into FPATH program if/when the participant consents to services.
Provides case management services to FPATH enrolled participants to include completing assessment of needs, developing a person-centered goal/service plan, supporting participant with achieving their goal/service plan, and connected enrolled participants to resources and services that provide social determinants of health.
Provides voluntary, person-centered, low-barrier, assertive case management to program participants at risk for needing additional Competency Restoration Services.
Develops relationships with available community resources and provides coordination, support and advocacy services to program participants and their families facing a variety of challenges. These challenges may include a history of homelessness, chronic mental, behavioral or other health issues, legal challenges and/or substance abuse issues.
Develops and maintains partnerships with local behavioral health, housing, and healthcare agencies to streamline referrals to additional services and enhance a Continuum of Care for eligible participants.
Records EHR (Electronic Health Record) recordkeeping items.

Benefits

medical/dental/vision plan options (many with no employee paid monthly premium depending on plan choice, and dependent coverage options)
life insurance
disability insurance options
WA State PERS retirement plans
pre and post tax deferred compensation retirement options
PTO package earning a minimum of 140 hours annually
12 paid holidays
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
Public Student Loan Forgiveness employer
fees for required DOH licenses
annual professional development funds