Job Description Summary: 

The Certified Peer Specialist is responsible for providing supportive rehabilitation and recovery support services to individuals impacted by a variety of behavioral health issues who are learning to manage aspects of their mental illness/substance abuse recovery.

Responsibilities:

• Provide ongoing emotional support and guide, teach and coach skills for managing mental health issues.
• Train, coach and support individuals in learning social and daily living skills.
• Accompany to appointments to provide support, advocacy and encouragement in discussing issues with doctors and therapists.
• Provide community living skills coaching and teaching to develop independence and self-sufficiency.
• Assist individuals in accessing public services to include financial, housing, emergency service needs, food, shelter and clothing resources.
• Assist in accessing support groups in the community.
• Assist in developing Wellness and Recovery Plans with clients.
• Assist in learning Illness Management and Recovery skills to become familiar with signs and symptoms of mental illness.
• Teach stress reduction exercises.
• Certified Peer Specialist shall report to and perform other work-related duties as assigned by the Assistant Director of Crisis Services.
• Performs specified administrative tasks as determined by the Assistant Director of Crisis Services and/or Director of Crisis Services

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.  Other duties may be assigned.

Physical Requirements:

• Normal office environment. 
• Typical demands include prolonged sitting, frequent standing, bending, stooping, and occasional lifting up to 25 pounds. 
• Requires normal range of hearing and manual dexterity sufficient to operate keyboard, telephone, photocopier, calculator, and other office equipment as needed. 
• Requires ability to work under stressful conditions and to work irregular hours and deal with irate individuals.
• TB test upon hire.