Peer Support Specialis

Gulf Coast Social Services is looking for an on-call only Recognized Peer Support Specialist (RPSS) to service Terrebonne, Lafourche Assumption, St. Mary, St. Charles, St. James and St. John Parishes.

Job Summary:
The Peer Support Specialist will work as a vital member of a mobile crisis team, providing immediate support to individuals experiencing mental health crises in the community. Under the supervision of licensed mental health professionals, this role involves conducting assessments, offering stabilization interventions, and connecting individuals to appropriate resources and follow-up care. The RPSS will engage in crisis de-escalation, risk assessments, and collaborative problem-solving while maintaining a compassionate and nonjudgemental approach.

The RPPS must successfully complete a comprehensive peer training plan and curriculum that is inclusive of the Core Competencies for Peer Workers, as outlines by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and has been approved by the Office of Behavioral Health (OBH).

Essential Job Functions:

• Respond to mental health crises in the community by providing mobile intervention services.
• Engage individuals in crisis to assess their emotional, psychological, and behavioral state.
• Utilize de-escalation techniques to stabilize the individual in crisis and reduce immediate risk.
• Provide short-term crisis intervention, including safety planning and emotional support.
• Conduct mental health assessments
• Complete accurate and thorough documentation of interventions, assessments, and outcomes in a timely manner.
• Record case names, service delivery, and follow-up referrals in compliance with agency policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with other professionals, including police officers, emergency medical staff, and family members to ensure comprehensive care and safety.
• Refer individuals to appropriate community resources, including mental health services, crisis stabilization units and social services.
• Provide information and support for individuals regarding available mental health resources, treatment options and community programs.
• Participate in regular supervision sessions with licensed mental health professionals to review cases, receive feedback and gain clinical insight.
• Engage in ongoing professional development, training and education to enhance clinical skills and knowledge of mental health disorders, crisis intervention techniques and ethical practices.

Qualifications

• Applicants must have personal lived experience with a minimum of 12 consecutive months of recovery from behavioral health conditions and successfully navigating the behavioral health services system or lived experience as the caregiver for a child with complex needs, including social, emotional, mental health, and/or substance use concerns.
• Applicants must be recognized as a peer support specialist by an OBH approved organization
• Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED
• Applicants must pass pre-employment drug screen and TB test.
• Applicants must have a valid Louisiana driver's license, valid vehicle registration, valid vehicle inspection sticker, valid vehicle insurance.
• Applicants must have a satisfactory background check and motor vehicle record.
• Must be a minimum of 24 years of age per licensing requirements.

Gulf Coast Social Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Pay: $18.00 per hour

Application Question(s):

• If hired, can you provide proof that you are least 24 years of age per licensing requirements?

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

License/Certification:

• Louisiana driver's licenses (Preferred)

Work Location: On the road

Salary : $18