Peer Support Specialist

Seneca Family of Agencies • Atascadero, CA

9d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Peer Support Specialist provides peer support and advocacy to consumers of Seneca’s services, individually and in groups. Drawing on personal experience navigating systems, the specialist works with youth and/or family members to engage them in services, increase their involvement, and help them achieve care plan goals. The role includes a wide range of activities as a member of the support team and may also involve community awareness and leadership activities.

The position is part of San Luis Obispo Wraparound, which serves youth and families experiencing emotional or behavioral challenges at home. Wraparound services are strengths-based, family-driven, flexible, and creative, with the goal of helping families build skills and supports to prevent or reduce the possibility of out-of-home placement. A family-based team addresses the needs of the entire family and may include family members, Seneca therapists, youth counselors, parent partners, facilitators, and relevant community members.

Seneca Family of Agencies provides mental health, community-based, and educational services, with a commitment to serving traditionally marginalized communities and building a diverse staff. Its programs engage in conversations and training on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to advance equity and justice for the youth and families served.

This is a full-time, hybrid position in San Luis Obispo. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The specialist provides in-person services and completes documentation remotely. Voluntary on-call shifts are available; participation in an on-call rotation may be required if applicable to program requirements.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Personal, lived experience with relevant systems, such as child welfare, juvenile justice, mental health, or special education.
• At least 18 years of age.
• TB test clearance, fingerprinting clearance, and any other state or federal licensing or certification requirements.
• Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and eligibility for coverage under Seneca Family of Agencies’ insurance policy.

Responsibilities

• Provide and communicate guidance, expertise, and support to youth, families, and other natural supports, one-on-one and in group settings.
• Build trust and rapport with youth, families, and collateral supports through engagement and alignment skills.
• Act as a collaborative advocate, helping youth, caregivers, and family members understand team members’ mandates and perspectives while navigating county systems.
• Use knowledge of community resources, school systems, and other mental health services to help youth and families identify and connect with a family safety network and/or natural support team.
• Coach and support youth and families with safety planning, self-control plans, and self-care plans.
• Attend and participate in community mental health awareness activities.
• Participate in peer forums, which may include public speaking engagements.
• Complete training requirements as directed by the supervisor.
• Participate in weekly supervision or mentorship with the supervisor or designee.
• Maintain accurate, high-quality documentation and paperwork, including mental health notes, timesheets, expense reports, and mileage records.
• Participate in an on-call rotation if applicable to program requirements.
• Use crisis communication and de-escalation techniques in accordance with Seneca’s EQ-4 model training.

Benefits

• Additional compensation upon passing the bilingual language proficiency exam.
• Annual salary increases.
• Mileage reimbursement.
• Stipends for staff participating in emergency on-call shifts.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, chiropractic, acupuncture, and fertility coverage.
• 50% paid premiums for dependents.
• Long-term disability, family leave, and life insurance.
• 403(b) retirement plan.
• Employer-paid Employee Assistance Plan.
• Five weeks of paid time off and 11 paid holidays.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness-certified employer.
• Scholarship opportunities.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED