Certified Peer Support Worker - Addiction Recovery Support

Job Summary

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Certified Peer Support Worker (CPSW) to join our innovative addiction medicine-focused Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF). Our facility specializes in supporting patients during the critical first month of recovery following discharge from acute hospital care. As the peer, you will play a pivotal role in our therapeutic model by providing peer-based support, drawing from your own lived experience with addiction recovery to inspire hope, foster resilience, and guide patients through early-stage sobriety. In our caring, patient-centered environment, you will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver empathetic, non-judgmental counseling that empowers individuals to rebuild their lives. This full-time position offers a rewarding opportunity to make a tangible difference in a supportive community dedicated to holistic healing.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide Peer Support and Counseling: Offer one-on-one and group sessions to patients, sharing personal recovery stories to build trust, reduce isolation, and promote motivation. Facilitate discussions on coping strategies, relapse prevention, and daily living skills tailored to early recovery stages.
• Assist in Care Transitions: Support patients transitioning from hospital discharge by helping them navigate the SNF environment, set realistic goals, and connect with resources for ongoing recovery, such as 12-step programs or community support groups.
• Collaborate with Clinical Teams: Work closely with nurses, physicians, therapists, and social workers to integrate peer perspectives into individualized care plans. Participate in case conferences and contribute insights on patient progress and needs.
• Facilitate Group Activities: Lead or co-lead support groups, workshops, and recreational activities focused on building peer connections, emotional regulation, and life skills in a safe, encouraging space.
• Monitor and Document Progress: Observe patient engagement, provide feedback on recovery milestones, and maintain accurate, confidential records in compliance with HIPAA and facility protocols.
• Promote a Positive Environment: Model healthy behaviors, encourage mutual respect among patients, and contribute to a culture of empathy and accountability within the facility.
• Community Outreach and Education: Assist in educating family members or visitors on addiction recovery and occasionally participate in outreach efforts to connect with local recovery networks.

Qualifications

• Lived Experience: Personal history of addiction recovery with at least 3 years of sustained sobriety required. Certification as a Certified Peer Support Worker (CPSW) is highly preferred.
• Education: High school diploma or GED required; associate's degree in human services, counseling, or a related field is a plus.
• Experience: Minimum of 1 year in a peer support role, preferably in a healthcare, addiction treatment, or community recovery setting. Experience in SNF or post-acute care environments is advantageous.
• Certifications: Current CPR/First Aid certification; must pass background check and drug screening. Training in trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, or crisis intervention is desirable.

Required Skills and Attributes

• Empathy and Communication: Exceptional active listening and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect authentically and communicate hope without imposing personal beliefs.
• Cultural Competency: Sensitivity to diverse backgrounds, including age, gender, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, ensuring inclusive support.
• Resilience and Boundaries: Strong emotional resilience, with the ability to maintain professional boundaries while drawing from personal experiences.
• Team Player: Collaborative mindset, comfortable working in a multidisciplinary team and adapting to dynamic patient needs.
• Organizational Skills: Proficient in basic documentation and time management, with attention to detail in a fast-paced setting.
• Commitment to Ethics: Adherence to ethical guidelines for peer support, prioritizing patient confidentiality, safety, and well-being.

What We Offer

• Full-time role available along with part-time and weekend availability
• Competitive full-time salary range: $40,000 - $55,000 annually, based on experience and certification.
• Competitive benefits including health insurance and paid time off.
• A supportive work culture with flexible scheduling, wellness programs, and access to peer supervision.
• The chance to be part of a pioneering SNF model that prioritizes patient dignity and long-term recovery success.

If you are passionate about using your recovery journey to uplift others in a compassionate, evidence-based setting, we encourage you to apply. Our facility is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace.

Pay: $40,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Application Question(s):

• Please provide a cover letter as well as samples of groups you have run previously.

License/Certification:

• Certified Peer Support Worker certification? (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,000 - $55,000