Peer Support Navigator

Eskasoni Health Centre•Eskasoni 3, NS

About The Position

Eskasoni Mental Health Services is introducing a new role within the Crisis Team: the Peer Support Navigator. This position has been created to strengthen culturally grounded, relationship-based support for individuals and families accessing crisis services. The Peer Support Navigator plays a unique and important role within the multidisciplinary team by offering non-clinical, peer-based support rooted in lived experience, empathy, and respect. This role focuses on walking alongside clients during times of crisis, helping them feel heard, supported, and connected to community resources and services. Reporting to the Crisis Supervisor, the Peer Support Navigator provides one-on-one and group-based support, assists clients in navigating systems, and contributes to a holistic “circle of care” approach. This position does not provide clinical counselling or medical advice, but instead focuses on advocacy, connection, and supporting clients in their own healing journey in a culturally safe and meaningful way.

Requirements

High school diploma (minimum required)
Lived experience related to mental health, addictions, homelessness, or personal healing journeys is strongly valued
Knowledge of Mi’kmaq culture, traditions, and community supports is highly valued
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to build trust and maintain respectful, supportive relationships
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
Strong organizational and time management skills
Ability to maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and boundaries
Understanding of culturally safe, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approaches
Respect for Mi’kmaw culture, values, and ways of knowing
Knowledge of community-based supports and services
Ability to support clients in a holistic and relationship-based way
Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and during emergencies (e.g., storms)
Valid Police Vulnerable Sector Check and clear Sexual Abuse Registry check required

Nice To Haves

Certificate in Social Services or undergraduate degree considered an asset
Ability to speak and/or understand Mi’kmaq is an asset
Experience in peer support, mental health, or social services preferred
Experience working with Indigenous communities is an asset
Experience facilitating groups or community-based programming is considered an asset
Training in ASIST, Mental Health First Aid (First Nations), SafeTALK, or similar is an asset (training will be provided if needed)

Responsibilities

Provide one-on-one peer support to clients accessing crisis services
Support clients in navigating community resources, including housing, income support, and legal services
Act as a liaison between clients and service providers to ensure client voices, rights, and choices are respected
Accompany clients to appointments as appropriate
Facilitate peer support groups and workshops on topics such as self-esteem, life skills, journaling, and employment readiness
Support the development of a “circle of care” by coordinating with service providers (with client consent), including social workers, schools, child welfare, and law enforcement
Assist in organizing and participating in talking circles and other culturally meaningful gatherings
Maintain communication with community agencies and healthcare providers involved in client care
Promote a culturally safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for clients and families
Maintain accurate and confidential documentation in accordance with program standards
Participate in team meetings, training, and ongoing professional development
Carry out additional duties as required by leadership