Veterans' Program Peer Support Specialist

Health Affiliates Maine•Auburn, ME

About The Position

Health Affiliates Maine is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Peer Support Specialist for its expanding Veterans' Program Team. The position supports veterans on their journey to wellness and recovery through shared understanding, connection, resilience, and mutual support. It is part-time, hourly, and offers 20 hours per week with flexible scheduling. The role includes individual and group engagement with veterans eligible for the Fox program, peer group facilitation, recovery-oriented support, crisis assistance, documentation, collaboration with the Fox interdisciplinary team, and participation in supervision and training. Travel reimbursement and an employee assistance program are available.

Requirements

Must be a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Must have experienced a diagnosis of mental illness and be in recovery from that illness.
Must be willing to self-identify with other veterans in the Fox program.
Must hold, or be in training to receive within 9 months, the Maine CIPSS credential.

Responsibilities

Use interpersonal skills and shared experience to engage Fox-eligible veterans individually or in groups at regular intervals, with a goal of encountering 30% of Fox veterans each quarter and maintaining more regular contact with 10%.
Facilitate peer groups using peer-support curriculum and norms, providing a safe structure for participants.
Help veterans explore mutual-support organizations, social support, and community activities that may support recovery.
Help combat self-stigma and encourage veterans to share recovery messages.
Promote empowerment and self-determination.
Practice, mentor others, and maintain fidelity to the values of peer support: connection, openness, honoring worldview, and mutual responsibility.
Communicate directly, respectfully, and honestly, and demonstrate patience and commitment to learning and growth.
Participate in internal agency training and external training as determined by the agency.
Maintain CIPSS certification and follow applicable codes of ethics, including the Maine CIPSS Code of Ethics.
Protect and maintain the confidentiality of client records and information in accordance with HIPAA and applicable guidelines.
Provide services consistent with trauma-informed practices.
Offer and complete Mental Health Advanced Directives when appropriate.
Collaborate with the Fox team to provide crisis support and maintain a calm, non-defensive, supportive attitude during crisis or potential crisis situations.
Attend and participate in Fox team meetings, case reviews, and other required meetings, collaborating as part of the interdisciplinary team when needed.
Maintain and complete accurate documentation in accordance with agency policies and procedures and applicable laws, regulations, and agreements.
Actively participate in required supervision and training.
Seek supervision appropriately regarding client concerns and ethical dilemmas, and respond to feedback and direction from supervisors and directors.