Peer Support Specialist

WORK SCHEDULE

• Per-Diem

• Day Shift

POSITION HIGHLIGHTS

• Model resiliency in overcoming obstacles common to those with mental illness

• Serve a wide diverse population of clients, all of whom have clear and persistent mental illness

• Help clients reach goals and provide the support needed to accomplish them

PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Share lived experience to inspire recovery and resilience; support consumers in setting and achieving recovery goals

• Provide one-on-one support during and after Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) visits, including transition from inpatient to outpatient care

• Build supportive relationships that promote wellness, choice, and hope

• Connect consumers to community resources (e.g., healthcare, housing, employment, support groups) and assist with benefits applications

• Educate consumers on psychiatric medications and assist with prescription access post-discharge

• Collaborate with inpatient/outpatient teams and PES staff to develop individualized transition plans

• Teach independent living skills such as budgeting, meal prep, transportation, and community engagement

• Attend team meetings, provide coverage for peers, and maintain accurate clinical and billing documentation

• Manage records, operate office equipment, and maintain inventory for support services

REQUIREMENTS

High school graduation or equivalent and two years’ experience in a behavioral health organization or consumer/peer run organization; or equivalent education/experience.

AND

Peer Counselor Certification (Department of Behavioral Health and Recovery) OR Community Health Worker Certification (Department of Health)

AND

Within 7 days of employment and depending on job requirements:

must apply for Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration/License with the State of WA (Dept of Health), and have obtained this credential within 60 days of hire (RCW18.19.210).

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

DEPARTMENT SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

• Must obtain an Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration with the State of Washington.

• Must obtain a Peer Support Specialist Certification issued by the Mental Health Division as specified in WAC 388-865-0107 within the first 6 months of employment.

• May need a Washington State Drivers License.

• May need to obtain and maintain a Food Handler’s Permit.

DESIRED SKILLS

• Exceptional communication skills, written, oral, and telephone.

• Experience interacting and communicating with a diverse population, using sensitivity, tact, and discretion.

• Demonstrated computer experience and proficiency, preferably in a Windows-based environment.

• Demonstrated history of commitment to continuously improving quality and service.

• Maintains the highest standards of confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical conduct.

• Demonstrates independent judgment and decision-making skills and appropriately prioritizes and handles multiple tasks.