Youth Peer Support Specialist

Aroostook Mental Health Services, Inc.•Caribou, ME

56d

About The Position

AMHC is excited to launch a brand-new role on our Children’s Behavioral Health Home team: Youth Peer Support Specialist. This position is designed for individuals with lived experience of behavioral health challenges who are passionate about supporting other young people on their recovery journeys. You’ll play a critical part in mentoring and empowering youth (up to age 30), helping them build coping skills, access resources, and advocate for their needs. As a peer with personal experience, you’ll offer emotional support, guidance, and advocacy while promoting youth voice, choice, and active participation in their care.

Requirements

This position requires a High School Diploma or its equivalent.
The individual must be between eighteen (18) and twenty-six (26) years old, who is receiving or has received services and supports related to the diagnosis of a mental illness, is in recovery from that illness, and who is willing to self-identify on this basis with members receiving services in this Section.
Must be willing to complete the designated Maine Office of Child and Family Services (OCFS) curriculum for peer support within 9 months from the date of hire and maintain that certification for the duration of employment.

Responsibilities

Peer Support & Mentorship Offer youth a safe, empathetic space to share their experiences.
Openly share your recovery journey to foster trust and connection.
Model positive coping skills, resilience, and healthy decision-making.
Advocacy & Emotional Support Help youth express their needs and navigate systems like education, healthcare, and social services.
Advocate on behalf of youth to ensure they receive appropriate accommodations and care.
Provide judgment-free support during times of stress, crisis, or transition.
Resource Navigation & Referrals Support youth and families in locating and accessing services (mental health, substance use, housing, education, etc.).
Assist with overcoming practical barriers to care, including appointment scheduling and transportation.
Empower youth to make informed choices and participate actively in treatment planning.
Crisis Support Offer immediate emotional support during crises.
Assist in safety planning and connect youth to appropriate crisis services.
Documentation & Reporting Maintain confidential and accurate records of support services.
Complete progress notes, assessments, and reports per agency guidelines and funding requirements.
Collaboration & Teamwork Coordinate care with behavioral health professionals, educators, social workers, and community providers.
Attend team meetings, case conferences, and required trainings.