Peer Support Specialist

Job Title: Peer Support Specialist

Department: Our Place

Reports to: Ministry and Services Manager

FLSA Status: Non- exempt/ Part time

Objective of the Position:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative ofthe knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made toenable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The Behavioral Health Peer Support Specialist provides peer-based recovery support throughthe process of giving and receiving non-clinical assistance to individuals working toward long-term recovery from mental health, physical health, and substance misuse challenges.

This support is provided by individuals who are experientially credentialed and trained to assist others in initiating recovery, maintaining recovery, and enhancing the quality of personal and family life throughout the recovery process.

The Behavioral Health Peer Support Specialist must complete PS101 as part of the requiredtraining toward Montana state certification. The employee must have a documented plan andan established date for completing all requirements necessary to obtain Montana State Behavioral Health Peer Support Specialist certification within six (6) months of the date of hire.

Maintaining employment in the Behavioral Health Peer Support Specialist position is contingent upon meeting the applicable state certification requirements within the required six-month timeframe. Employees are responsible for completing required training, submitting necessary documentation, and actively working toward state certification throughout the six-month period.

If certification requirements are not completed within six (6) months of hire, the employee may no longer be eligible to continue working in the Behavioral Health Peer Support Specialist position, subject to applicable state requirements and organizational policies.

Essential Functions

 Works as part of a multidisciplinary team to help consumers develop a personal recovery plan and identify opportunities to provide support as clients work toward achieving their recovery goals.

 Promotes client self-determination, independence, and decision-making.

 Facilitates peer support group(s) and other recovery-oriented activities.

 Coaches and supports clients in developing the necessary skills for successful integration into the community.

 Advocates for clients working toward recovery by supporting the development of life skills, building confidence, and promoting empowerment through physical, spiritual, and emotional wellness.

 Interacts with referral contacts and community partners and links clients to resources identified within their wellness and recovery plans.

 Models competency in recovery, self-care, and maintaining ongoing wellness.

 Monitors and supports clients through peer support services and communicates progress, concerns, and relevant updates to the multidisciplinary team.

 Must be willing to publicly self-identify as being in recovery from a mental health condition, substance misuse, or addiction diagnosis.

 Must be able to take direction, be prompt and dependable, take initiative, complete assigned tasks, and work effectively as part of a team.

 Participates in staff, community, and program meetings.

 Participates in regular clinical and/or program supervision as required.

 Collects data as directed for program evaluation, reporting, and grant requirements.

 Completes required reports, documentation, and client records accurately and in a timely manner.

 Participates in required and ongoing training, including all training necessary to maintain applicable peer support certification.

 Works with outside partners to bring groups, training, educational opportunities, and other events to the Drop-In Center.

 Maintains professional boundaries and follows all agency policies, procedures, confidentiality requirements, and applicable peer support standards.

 Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

 Must be willing to publicly self-identify as being in recovery from a mental health condition, substance misuse, or addiction diagnosis

 Must have knowledge of and/or personal experience with severe mental illness, substance use, treatment, and the impact these experiences may have on consumers/survivors and their families.

 Must complete PS101 within six (6) months of hire, if not already completed.

 Must obtain State Certified Behavioral Health Peer Support Specialist (CBHPSS) certification within six (6) months of hire.

 Must possess strong verbal and written communication skills and demonstrate the ability to maintain appropriate professional boundaries and adhere to the applicable Code of Ethics.

 Must complete all trainings required by Good Samaritan Ministries, including but not limited to VIRTUS, within thirty (30) days of employment.

 Must be able to successfully complete a background check as a condition of employment.

 Individuals with felony convictions are encouraged to apply. A prior conviction will not automatically disqualify an applicant. Each situation will be reviewed individually, considering the nature and severity of the offense, how long ago it occurred, and its relevance to the position and responsibilities.

Education:

 High school diploma or GED preferred. Equivalent combination of lived experience, training, and relevant experience may be considered.

 Additional education or training in behavioral health, substance use, mental health, human services, social services, or a related field is preferred but not required.

 Completed PS101 preferred but not required.

 Obtained Montana State Certified Behavioral Health Peer Support Specialist (CBHPSS) certification or obtained within six (6) months of hire.

Preferred Experience:

 Personal lived experience with mental health and/or substance use challenges and recovery.

 Experience providing peer support, mentoring, advocacy, or assistance to individuals experiencing mental health, substance use, housing, or other life challenges.

 Experience working with individuals who are unhoused, involved with behavioral health services, or navigating community resources is preferred.

 Experience facilitating groups, providing one-on-one support, or helping individuals identify and work toward recovery goals.

 Knowledge of local community resources and experience making referrals or connecting individuals to services is preferred.

Physical Requirements

 Must be able to lift and carry objects weighing up to 35 pounds and use team lifting techniques for objects weighing more than 35 pounds.

 Must be able to sit, stand, and move throughout the workday, including extended periods of computer use.

 Must be able to interact regularly with staff, consumers, community members, and individuals seeking support.

 May be required to work in a variety of environments and settings, including the office, community, and other locations where consumers may be receiving services.

 Must be able to safely perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Working environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 May work both on and off campus to attend community meeting or client activities.

 Work in a fast paced environment with heavy traffic flow, and heart wrenching situations on and off throughout the day.

 Travel may be required.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature of the work being performed by employees in this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications. The Good Samaritan Ministries Management reserves the right to amend and change the responsibilities to meet the organization's needs at any time.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $18.00 per hour

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18