Peer Support Specialist

MTC•Henderson, TX

35d•$18•Onsite

About The Position

You’ll be responsible for providing emotional support, mentorship, and resources to help individuals navigate their own recovery process. Performs moderately complex substance abuse counseling work through education. Work involves planning, coordinating, and supporting the staff on duty while working with the Community Counselors. Knowledge of trauma-informed care and recovery-oriented practices. A person with “lived experience” who has been trained to support those who struggle with mental health or substance use. Their personal experience of these challenges provides peer support specialists with expertise in their field in compliance with Management & Training Corporation (MTC) and Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) directives.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited senior high school or equivalent or GED.
Experience in the use of Microsoft Office Suite or equivalent to include word processing, spreadsheet, database, or presentation software programs required.
A valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record is required, unless waived by management.

Responsibilities

Provide Peer Support: Build trust and establish supportive relationships by sharing lived experiences of recovery and offering hope to individuals facing similar challenges.
Engagement: Engage with individuals who are dealing with mental health or substance use issues, helping them to feel understood, accepted, and not judged.
Goal Setting: Help individuals set and achieve recovery goals by providing guidance, encouragement, and accountability.
Resource Connection: Provide information about community resources, treatment options, recovery services, and other supports available to help individuals on their recovery journey.
Advocacy: Advocate for individuals receiving services, ensuring they have a voice in their recovery plan and access to appropriate care.
Crisis Support: Recognize signs of distress and assist individuals in seeking help during crisis situations by connecting them with appropriate services or professionals.
Documentation: Maintain accurate and timely records of interactions, services provided, and progress notes in compliance with organizational policies.
Training and Education: Participate in ongoing training and education to stay current with best practices in peer support and recovery services.
Computer Skills: Basic computer skills for documentation and record-keeping.
Attend scheduled staff meetings; promote communication and the proper flow of relevant information between administration, staff and inmates.
Promote the development of positive social skills and intervene when inappropriate behaviors are observed; provide regular feedback to staff regarding social skills procedures and intervention techniques.
Maintain accountability of inmates; adhere to safety practices.
It is expected that the incumbent shall perform other duties as assigned within his/her capabilities as determined by management.