Peer Support Specialist

Lake County • Waukegan, IL

9d • Onsite

About The Position

The Peer Support Specialist is a valuable member of our Behavioral Health team who provides support to clients based on own experiences. Responsible for engaging and motivating identified population to seek needed services. Explains, guides, supports and assists clients with goals of improved stability and self-sufficiency, independent living, self-advocacy, and development of supportive relationships. Responsible for assisting individuals with serious mental illness to increase skills in the areas of independent living and self-advocacy. Co-leads client activities.

Requirements

• High school diploma or G.E.D. certificate required.
• Requires one year of direct and personal experience with the mental health system as a primary consumer of services.
• Demonstrated ability to utilize lived experience to provide peer support, advocacy, and encouragement to clients.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record.
• Requires use of personal vehicle when an LCHD fleet vehicle is not available for outreach activities or to respond to crisis calls in the field.

Nice To Haves

• Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assists in the planning and implementation of activities of the Drop-In Center
• Assists in the development and leading of mental health recovery groups.
• Assists in the development and leading of advocacy training groups.
• Provides supportive peer counseling.
• Assists in implementing independent living skills and leading independent living skills classes and groups.
• Assist with transportation of client(s) to and from home and outings
• Assists in providing community consultation and education, as assigned.
• Assists in the development and facilitation of training for clients and the community.
• Explains LCHD programs to the client and/or family
• Assists family through the intake, referral, and connection with other agencies.
• Provides support and advocacy for families receiving services.

Benefits

• Services must be available without barriers. No residents are turned away due to the inability to pay.
• Services provided in an environment of mutual respect, free of discrimination or bias.
• Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other protected characteristics.

What This Job Offers

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