Job Description

The Recovery Peer Support Specialist will be responsible for providing peer support services to individuals involved in the outpatient substance use disorder treatment program (Bridges to Recovery). Recovery Peer Support services include recovery and wellness support, mentoring, and advocacy. The Recovery Peer Support Specialist will provide support and assistance in the process of planning for recovery. The Recovery Support Peer Specialist will serve as a role model and will assist with finding community resources when needed. The Recovery Peer Support Specialist will utilize their unique recovery experience to teach and provide an example of the value of recovery and foster positive relationships with support resources. The Recovery Peer Support Specialist will model effective coping techniques, self-help strategies, and efficient use of natural supports and community resources.

Essential Functions

Provide both emotional and affiliation support to consumers. Assist consumers in determining desired objectives to reach recovery goals and remain engaged in these activities. Meet the needs of consumers while consistently communicating and treating consumers in a courteous and respectful manner. Facilitate a variety of informational support groups using approved curriculum and materials. Offer support in a manner consistent with recovery, which emphasizes peer and natural support. Completes all required documentation concurrently and collaboratively, and safely transports consumers as needed and as appropriate.

Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills

• Ability to learn Pecan Valley Centers policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of personal resources necessary to deal with recovery from substance use and mental illness.
• Knowledge of recovery and peer support principles.
• Knowledge of and commitment to ethics, cultural competence, and boundaries necessary to perform the job.
• Knowledge and respect of confidentiality laws, agency guidelines and client rights.
• Ability to utilize own lived experience with substance use and translate this experience in helping others.
• Ability to work collaboratively with others and accept constructive feedback.
• Ability to establish a trusting relationship with peers using excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to navigate and advocate through various systems.
• Ability to learn the programs and services provided by Pecan Valley Centers.
• Skilled use of Microsoft Office programs.
• Ability to plan and carry out all assignments.

Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or GED.

Certification: Must be able to obtain Peer Provider Certification within six months of employment.

Experience: At least one cumulative year of lived experience in recovery from a substance use disorder-or-a co-occurring substance use and mental health disorder. Must have experience in accessing and utilizing mental health and substance use disorder services in a community setting. Must demonstrate the ability to maintain their stability in recovery for no less than two years.