Job Description Summary:  The Peer Specialist is responsible for providing supportive rehabilitation and recovery services to individuals impacted by a variety of behavioral health (addiction/substance use and mental health) issues who are learning to navigate their recovery journeys.  They demonstrate a warm and welcoming, empathic, hopeful attitude and are committed to the shared philosophy of dual recovery (from behavioral health disorders and/or substance use).  The Peer Specialist is trained and experienced in using their own recovery story to foster connection with and instill hope in the individuals we serve.  This position reports directly to a QMHP-level supervisor.

Education: 

• High school diploma or equivalent

Qualifications:  

• Must be at least 18 years of age and have high school diploma or equivalent.
• Must have lived experience with behavioral health and/or substance use recovery. 
• Must successfully complete Peer Specialist training and become credentialed as a Certified Peer Specialist.
• Must adhere to the Missouri Department of Mental Health Peer Specialist Certification Code of Ethics. 

Responsibilities:

• Provides ongoing emotional support and guidance.  Teaches strategies for managing behavioral health issues.
• Trains, coaches, and supports individuals who are learning social skills, activities of daily living, coping skills, and problem-solving techniques.
• Accompanies individuals to appointments to offer support, advocacy, and encouragement in discussing issues with doctors and therapists.
• Provides community living skills coaching and teaching to promote independence and self-sufficiency.
• Assists individuals with accessing public services and community resources to include financial, housing, emergency service needs, food, shelter, and clothing.
• Assists with accessing support groups in the community.
• Develops Wellness and Recovery Action Plans (WRAP) with clients.
• Teaches Illness Management and Recovery skills to become increase individuals’ knowledge of signs and symptoms of mental illness.
• Assists individuals with learning to budget and with improving their executive functioning skills.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements:

• Requires prolonged sitting, frequent standing, bending, squatting, kneeling, and reaching above shoulder level frequently, climbing and twisting occasionally 
• Requires a typical range of hearing and manual dexterity sufficient to operate a computer keyboard, telephone, photocopier, calculator, and other office equipment as needed 
• Requires repetitive use of hands for simple grasping and fine manipulation 
• Requires standing, sitting, or walking for up to 8 hours or longer per workday 
• TB test upon hire.