What are the responsibilities and job description for the CRPA – Behavioral Health/Recovery position at CoPeers?
Turn Your Lived Experience Into Someone Else’s Hope!
Are you passionate about helping others because you understand firsthand what it means to face challenges, find support, and move forward? CoPeers is looking for a dedicated, compassionate, and motivated Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) to join our team. Non-certified candidates with a willingness to get their certification are also welcome to apply.
At CoPeers, we believe that lived experience is a strength. Our CRPA’s build genuine relationships with members, listen without judgment, encourage hope, and help people recognize their own strengths and possibilities. This is an opportunity to do meaningful work where the connection you build with a member can make a real difference in someone's day—and sometimes in their life.
We are looking for someone who is warm, dependable, patient, encouraging, and genuinely interested in helping others. As a CRPA, you will use your own recovery experience to provide support, encouragement, and guidance to individuals working toward greater stability, wellness, and meaningful engagement in their lives.
As a Peer Lead organization, CoPeers values the unique perspective that each Peer Specialist brings to the team. We are committed to creating a supportive environment where your lived experience is respected and where you can continue to learn, grow, and make a meaningful difference.
Responsibilities
- Provide one-on-one support to members, sharing appropriate personal experiences to inspire hope, resilience, and recovery.
- Utilize motivational techniques and strengths-based approaches to encourage members to identify and work toward personal goals.
- Assist members in developing healthy coping strategies and life skills necessary for maintaining wellness and recovery.
- Facilitate sessions focused on peer support, education, recovery, wellness, and skill-building.
- Support members with reducing isolation and increasing meaningful social and community engagement.
- Encourage members to participate in positive activities that promote connection, confidence, and quality of life.
- Support members with daily tasks such as shopping, scheduling appointments, accessing resources, and participating in activities.
- Advocate for members across various systems, including healthcare, housing, benefits, employment, and community services.
- Provide support during challenging situations while following organizational procedures regarding member safety and crisis response.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including social workers, mental health counselors, and other professionals or support members.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation of member interactions and progress in accordance with organizational policies.
- Maintain confidentiality, professional boundaries, and a respectful, non-judgmental approach at all times.
Requirements
- Must have an active New York Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) certification for employment or a willingness to obtain certification.
- Must have lived experience with substance use, recovery, behavioral health, mental health, or related life challenges.
- Strong mentoring and interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate, encourage, and connect with others.
- Knowledge of behavioral health, recovery services, and community resources is beneficial.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to connect with diverse populations.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a team-oriented environment while maintaining member confidentiality.
- A genuine passion for helping others achieve their goals and strengthen their recovery.
- Ability to maintain professional boundaries and appropriate use of lived experience.
- Ability to navigate technology confidently using a tablet or desktop computer to join team meetings, complete documentation, and support members with virtual appointments.
- Reliable transportation and ability to travel to assigned locations as needed.
Why Join CoPeers?
At CoPeers, we believe that recovery is about more than overcoming challenges—it is about helping people build a life they value.
We understand the power of being supported by someone who can genuinely say, “I understand because I’ve been there too.” Your lived experience can help someone feel heard, understood, and less alone.
You will be joining a team that values the work Peer Specialists do every day and recognizes the importance of the relationships they build with members. We provide flexibility, professional development, training, and ongoing support so that you can continue growing while doing work that matters.
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Mileage reimbursement
- Professional development assistance
- One-week, full-time paid CoPeers training
- Supportive, peer-focused work environment
- Opportunities to grow and develop professionally
License/Certification:
- Active (non-expired) NY Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) certification or willingness to obtain certification required.
Ability to Commute:
- Far Rockaway, NY 11691 (Required)
Work Location:
- In person
Pay: $21.00 - $30.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Mileage reimbursement
- Professional development assistance
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Application Question(s):
- If hired, how many hours per week would you be available to work?
- After you are hired, would you be willing to participate in a one-week full-time, paid training provided by CoPeers?
- Are you comfortable using technology and adapting to new technology tools?
- What motivates you to work as a Certified Recovery Peer Advocate?
- If you are not a NY State Certified CRPA, are you willing to commit to becoming certified with our assistance?
License/Certification:
- CRPA certification? (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Far Rockaway, NY 11691 (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $21 - $30