What are the responsibilities and job description for the Peer recovery specialist position at River City Comprehensive Counseling Services?
Company Description River City Comprehensive Counseling Services is part of River City Counseling Group, a network that provides a continuum of care across Greater Richmond for mental health, substance use, co-occurring disorders, and long-term recovery. Founded in 2009, River City has grown to offer services such as Mental Health Skill-Building, Intensive In-Home Counseling, Crisis Stabilization, Outpatient Services, group counseling, and a Veteran’s Employment Program supported by a federal grant. The organization employs about 90 trained professionals who meet strict educational and state standards, including background checks and certification in First Aid, CPR, and state-approved crisis intervention. Licensed by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services with a triennial license, River City meets the highest state standards for mental health providers and has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing healthcare companies. Its mission is to provide accessible, inclusive, and compassionate care that reduces the impact of substance use and psychiatric disorders on individuals, families, and communities.
Role Description The Peer Recovery Specialist is a full-time, on-site role based in Richmond, VA. This role involves using lived experience with recovery to provide peer support, mentoring, and advocacy to individuals managing mental health and substance use challenges. Day-to-day responsibilities include facilitating individual and group support sessions, assisting clients in developing recovery plans, and helping them navigate community resources, benefits, and services. The Peer Recovery Specialist collaborates with clinical and counseling staff, documents services in accordance with agency and regulatory standards, and participates in team meetings and ongoing training. The role also includes promoting recovery-oriented values, modeling healthy coping skills, and supporting clients in building life skills, self-advocacy, and long-term wellness.
Qualifications
- Candidates should possess strong peer support and recovery coaching skills, including the ability to use lived experience to build trust, offer encouragement, and model healthy recovery practices.
- Candidates should possess effective communication and interpersonal skills, including active listening, clear verbal and written communication, and the ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams.
- Candidates should possess skills in community resource navigation and care coordination, including familiarity with local behavioral health services, social supports, and recovery programs.
- Candidates should possess documentation and organizational skills, including accurate recordkeeping, time management, and adherence to agency procedures and regulatory standards.
- Candidates should possess basic crisis awareness and de-escalation skills, with the ability to recognize when to seek support from clinical staff and follow safety protocols.
- Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) or equivalent credential in Virginia, or eligibility and willingness to obtain certification within a defined timeframe.
- Personal experience in recovery from mental health and/or substance use challenges.