As a self-identified individual with lived experience in mental health services, the Peer Support Specialist offers compassionate, direct support to individuals within the community. This role emphasizes rehabilitation and recovery, helping clients develop skills to manage psychiatric symptoms and enhance community living.
Mobile Peer Support Specialists provide focused, goal-oriented assistance to individuals facing mental health crises and substance use challenges, aiming to stabilize them in their community environment. Collaboration with clinical teams and community partners is essential to deliver intensive support when needed.
Essential Functions
- Support crisis call triaging and provide direct assistance to individuals experiencing mental health symptoms.
- Help clients identify proactive solutions to overcome recovery barriers.
- Conduct trauma-informed risk assessments under the guidance of a Qualified Mental Health Professional to address safety concerns.
- Work closely with community partners, caregivers, family members, physicians, and other providers until crisis episodes resolve.
- Participate in care coordination to arrange and monitor services.
- Work a schedule of 12-hour shifts, typically 3-4 days on with 3-4 days off, including evenings, overnight, and possibly weekends. PRN staff remain on-call during shifts and may be called in as needed.
- Complete documentation promptly and accurately.
- Attend trainings and meetings as required.
- Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors.
Minimum Knowledge and Skills
Strong organizational abilities.Self-identification as a current or former consumer of mental health services with at least one year of stable recovery, per regional guidelines.Familiarity with community mental health services.Behavioral Skills
Integrity : Demonstrates honesty and a commitment to doing the right thing.Compassion : Exhibits empathy and excellent customer service in all interactions.Conflict Management : Able to consider diverse perspectives and offer solutions without compromising project goals.Accountability : Takes ownership of situations and adapts flexibly to changing priorities.Respect : Collaborates effectively with diverse populations and maintains a positive service orientation.Excellence : Strong communication and presentation skills with strategic and tactical thinking abilities.Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent required.Must be at least 18 years old and at least three years older than the youth served.Preferred : Two years of experience working with adults and children in a health-related field.Licenses and Certifications
Completion of state-required trainings for Peer Support Specialists.Valid driver's license, insurance, and reliable vehicle.This position serves a multi-county area in the Midwest region of the United States, providing vital crisis response and peer support services during evening and overnight hours.