Peer Support Specialist

BMC Software•Boston, MA

26d•$16 - $23

About The Position

The peer support specialist provides peer support services to formerly or currently homeless adults who identify as having a medical, behavioral health or Substance Use Disorder diagnosis and need assistance with stabilizing in housing. These services will be provided primarily through Peer Support Groups, with some individual work included. The services provided are recovery focused, strength based, inclusive, progressive and safe, and are provided in the context of mutuality and reciprocity. Position: Peer Support Specialist Department: Elders Living at Home Schedule: Part Time

Requirements

High school diploma or GED
Past or present consumer of behavioral health or substance use disorder services with a history of managing one’s own illness
2 years working directly with individuals in a service-oriented field
Certification as a Certified Peer Specialist by the MA Department of Mental Health required, or obtained within 6 months of hire
Ability to work with diverse populations including individuals with disabilities
Understanding of services available to individuals with complex health and social needs, including health and entitlement benefits systems
Proficient oral and written English communication skills.
Intermediate Microsoft Office suite experience (i.e. MS Word, Excel, Access, Outlook)

Nice To Haves

Active membership in a consumer advocacy or self-help group and experience conducting assertive outreach and relationship building with historically marginalized populations beneficial
Experience using an electronic health record preferred
Bi-lingual and/or bi-cultural candidates preferred

Responsibilities

Collaborates with LWAH staff and community partners to conduct outreach to individuals in need of Peer Support Services.
Organizes Peer Support Group meetings, including sending reminders to participants, preparing materials, securing meeting sites, and handling related administrative tasks.
Facilitates 4–6 Peer Support Groups per week at Boston Medical Center, via Zoom, and at community-based sites.
Researches and facilitates appropriate community-based activities to strengthen participant connections and support recovery, skill-building, and engagement.
Provides additional 1:1 Peer Support to individuals outside of group meetings as needed.
Maintains necessary program documentation.
Participates in all required LWAH and BMC trainings and meetings.
Maintains connections with the Peer Support Group network through the Department of Mental Health and Recovery Learning Centers.
Maintains HIPAA standards of confidentiality.
Upholds professional standards at all times.