Peer Recovery Specialist Jobs

About The Position

Requirements

• High School Diploma / GED
• At least one continuous year of sustained recovery for persons having lived experience with mental illness or substance use.
• Basic computer proficiency for documentation and communication.
• Willing and available to work modified schedules (weekends, holidays, etc.) as required.
• Ability to drive and must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Ability to participate in and successfully pass behavioral intervention training; includes both verbal de-escalation skills and physical skills techniques to be utilized with consumers as needed.

Nice To Haves

• CPRS or similar peer support credential preferred, or ability to obtain certification within 6 months of hire.
• Knowledge of local behavioral health systems, resources, and recovery communities.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills.
• Ability to remain calm in high-stress situations and to support others in de-escalation.
• Commitment to recovery principles, person-first language, and trauma-informed care.
• Knowledge of services and systems available in the community, including primary health care, support services, and generic community resources.
• Knowledge of the nature of the recovery process, including the use of established standardized mental health, substance use, and co-occurring processes.
• Knowledge of basic problem-solving strategies to support individuals in self-directed recovery.

Responsibilities

• Provide compassionate, person-centered support to individuals experiencing behavioral health crises using lived experience.
• Collaborate as part of a multidisciplinary team within the Crisis Receiving Center.
• Assist clients in achieving stabilization and accessing ongoing support and resources.
• Identify and document an individual’s need for resources, services, and other supports.
• Develop recovery, resiliency, and wellness plans.
• Promote services, supports, and strategies for the recovery process.
• Utilize personal experience to support others in recovery.
• Work as a member of a team, maintaining effective, professional working relationships.
• Participate in behavioral intervention training, including de-escalation and physical skills.
• Travel to Horizon worksites and transport clients as needed.
• Provide services to clients at other locations.

Benefits

• Quality behavioral health training
• Retirement plan through the Virginia State Retirement System (VRS)
• Generous paid annual leave
• Life insurance
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Separate time allocated for sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Annual wellness programs
• Opportunities to interact with the community
• Eligibility for clinical student loan repayment (NHSC/HRSA-approved sites)
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Eligibility for Behavioral Health State Loan Repayment (BHLRP)
• Discounts at some local universities for continuing education