Recovery Support Services Peer Specialist #1802

Lakeview Health Services Inc.•Geneva, NY

11d•$17 - $21

About The Position

The individual will use their personal story and experiences to help guide those we serve on their path to recovery. Under the direct supervision of the CSS Program Manager, the RSS Peer Specialist will function as a role model, exhibiting competency in personal recovery and use of coping skills; assist with vocational/educational training; provide outreach services to individuals in the community as well as those who live withing the agency programs who are struggling with substance use and mental illness. The RSS Peer Specialist will strive to create a healing environment that respects perspectives and experiences of the individuals, families, staff, and communities we serve by practicing safe, respectful communication as well as respecting individual’s boundaries and differences. With general supervision, works from a trauma informed care perspective to perform a wide range of outreach activities related to advocacy, linkage and development of services for persons with concurrent mental illness and substance abuse issues.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 2 years’ experience working with special needs consumers in a recovery-based or vocational/rehabilitative setting.
Lived experience with mental health services required.
Completion of or significant progress toward the Peer Certification Program is required within one (1) year of hire date. Must maintain certification throughout employment.
NYS Driver’s license as driving is an essential function of this position.
Significant amount of time driving and visiting clients; general apartment settings; general office environment.
Thorough knowledge of community services within service area; general knowledge and understanding of mental illnesses, psychiatric rehabilitation model, and related issues; skills for independent living.
Has a basic understanding of the importance of working from a trauma sensitive perspective.

Nice To Haves

Possession of the CPRP credential is a plus.

Responsibilities

May serve as an active member of the individuals treatment team, including participation in team meetings and treatment planning meetings.
Interview, support, counsel, and assist individuals with securing/linking to necessary services, living independently, and accomplishing their individual goals.
Complete all documentation in the individual’s electronic health record and maintain that record accurately.
Follow all department and organization policies and procedures.
Participate in community outreach events
Facilitate recovery-oriented groups.
Maintain NYS Peer-Certification.
Provide outreach services to individuals in the community, and those in agency programs, who are struggling with mental health and substance use disorders, through their recovery by sharing experiences.
Link to programs and resources that can assist in the individual’s recovery and that are of their choosing.
Assist with providing advocacy and support on behalf of the individual
Serves as role model and teaches effective coping techniques and self-help strategies.
Informs supervisor, and other members of treatment team as indicated, of issues/concerns related to individual clients.
Share personal experience to support others’ recovery in an appropriate and respectful manner