What are the responsibilities and job description for the Overnight Peer Support Specialist position at Mental Health Association of the Southern Tier?
Great Benefits Package:
- Health Insurance Premiums covered 90% by employer
- Deductible covered 100% by employer
- Shift Differential
- 401(k) Roth and Traditional with up to a 4% match
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Paid Time Off – Vacation and Sick
- Employee Assistance Program
- Short Term Disability – covered 100% by employer
- Long Term Disability – covered 100% by employer
- Life Insurance – covered 100% by employer
Health Insurance Premiums covered 90% by employer
Deductible covered 100% by employer
Shift Differential: $2.00
JOB SUMMARY : The Peer Support Specialist (PSS) provides support and assistance to individuals in crisis within a certified OMH/OASAS crisis facility. The PSS is a Person with Lived Experience (PWLE) who will provide immediate, therapeutic support to clients from the time of admission to discharge. PSS’s are responsible to complete accurate documentation of services, provide peer-based supports using a person-centered approach, and contribute to the smooth operations of CSC.
The CSC is a 24/7/365 program for individuals in Mental Health/Substance Use Disorder (MH/SUD) crisis situations to access immediate, therapeutic support provided by professional and clinical health professionals; and for access to community resources to support their recovery upon discharge.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
? Assist in the daily program operations of the CSC to support individuals with MH/SUD challenges who are in crisis
? Provide peer support to clients of all ages, which may include advocacy and empowerment, prevention and recovery education, health and wellness coaching, parenting skill development, coping and stress management skills, and community resource information and referrals
? Provide therapeutic interventions as part of the interdisciplinary team, including psychoeducation, de-escalation, and crisis intervention strategies
? Discuss and model the use of healthy coping strategies to manage crisis situations
? Assist clients with accessing resources in the community; provide information for services to benefit and meet the needs of the clients (medical, social care, and behavior health services)
? Communicate and interact with community agencies to coordinate services/referrals for clients
? Communicate relevant client information with family members, caregivers, or designated individuals, as appropriate and if authorized
? Meet with clients one-on-one, offer planned programming (activities/groups) that support client goals and objectives
? Help maintain overall cleanliness and safety of the CSC
? Maintain accurate records and complete documentation relevant to the client Individual Service Plan
? Follow OMH and OASAS regulatory requirements and agency policies and procedures
? Treat all clients with dignity and respect
? Demonstrate teamwork among co-workers and contribute to a multi-disciplinary team approach
? Flexibility with work schedule in the case of call-ins or scheduling issues.
? Attend staff meetings and trainings
· Personal/lived experience that has been affected by mental health challenges or substance use disorders
· Minimum of a high school diploma/GED; degree in human services related field preferred
· Valid NYS Peer Certification (or complete the certification within the orientation period); NYS Certification may include any of the following:
§ Certified Peer Specialist (PSS -OMH)
§ Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA-OASAS)
§ Certified Family Peer Advocate (CFPA-OMH or OASAS)
§ Certified Youth Peer Advocate (CYPA-OMH or OASAS)
· Three years of experience working in human service programs, MH/SUD programs preferred
· Two years of experience working with children/youth and families
· Successfully complete all required background and reference checks
KNOWLEDGE/ SKILLS/ ABILITIES:
· Knowledge of MH/SUD issues facing individuals of all ages in the community
· Ability to handle crisis situations, traumatic events, or sensitive circumstances
· Knowledge of community resources, services, and systems to assist in recovery/treatment of MH/SUD conditions and to assist with Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) needs
· Understanding and sensitivity to support a diverse client population (race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, etc.).
· Knowledge or experience using an EMR/EHR system
· Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Teams, etc.)
· Ability to problem solve and use critical thinking skills
· Excellent communication skills (verbal, written)
Salary : $2 - $20