Peer Support - Akron

Anew Behavioral Health • Akron, OH

7d

About The Position

The Peer Support Specialist for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) provides support to individuals recovering from substance use issues. Drawing on personal experience with addiction and recovery, the specialist offers guidance, encouragement, and empathy to help clients achieve and maintain sobriety. The role includes individual and group peer support, assistance with recovery plans, and connections to additional resources.

The specialist works with clinical staff to support comprehensive, holistic care and participates in case meetings, supervision, and team training. The position does not supervise others and reports to the Operations Manager/Assigned Supervisor.

Requirements

• Lived experience in recovery from substance use disorder or addiction.
• Knowledge of the 12-step program and other recovery methodologies.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries while offering empathy and support.
• Ability to work with diverse populations, including individuals with complex needs.
• Basic knowledge of community resources for people in recovery, including housing, employment, legal, and healthcare resources.
• High school diploma with experience as noted in the posting.
• Experience working in a behavioral health or substance use disorder treatment setting.
• Ability to sit for long periods, view computer monitors, and use a keyboard.
• Ability to lift 20 pounds.
• Must pass Federal and State background checks; additional checks for licensures and certifications are conducted according to company policy.

Nice To Haves

• Peer Support Specialist certification, such as Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS), preferred; otherwise, certification must be obtained within the stated timeframe, which is listed as “[X months]” in the posting.
• Associate’s degree in a healthcare-related field.
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care principles and practices.
• Experience facilitating group support or recovery meetings.
• Bilingual ability, if applicable.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one peer support to individuals with substance use disorders, using lived experience to establish trust and encourage hope.
• Help clients identify and set recovery goals, provide emotional support, and navigate recovery challenges.
• Facilitate peer recovery groups or support meetings.
• Model healthy coping strategies, decision-making, and positive lifestyle changes.
• Link clients to community resources, including housing, employment, healthcare, and social services.
• Assist with individualized recovery plans and explain the steps needed to maintain sobriety and well-being.
• Collaborate with clinical teams to support comprehensive care, including therapy, counseling, and medical treatment.
• Educate clients about recovery, coping skills, relapse prevention, and maintaining sobriety.
• Encourage participation in support groups, 12-step programs, and other recovery-focused activities.
• Support clients in identifying and managing triggers, high-risk situations, and cravings.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential client records, documenting interactions, progress, and changes in treatment or recovery status.
• Participate in case meetings with clinical staff to support continuity of care and update progress on recovery goals.
• Track and report client outcomes to contribute to program evaluation and improvement.
• Work with counselors, therapists, and case managers to support comprehensive, holistic care.
• Participate in regular supervision meetings and team training.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

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