Peer Support Specialist

FUNCTION: This member of the multidisciplinary team has responsibility to carry out recovery, rehabilitation and support functions that assist in treatment; provides job readiness training, provides education, support, and consultation to families; assist consumers with goal setting and achievement; assists in facilitation of consumer connection with community supports and agencies.

RESPONSIBILITIES: Be a member of the team for an assigned number of consumers. Consult with community agencies and families to maintain coordination in the treatment process. Document client progress to maintain a permanent record of client activity according to establish methods and procedures. Participate in daily staff organizational meetings and treatment planning review meetings. Participate in providing treatment and substance use services.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

1. Age Specific: Developmental Stages, Assessment, Knowledge, Interpretation, Interventions, Enhancement of Family Involvement
2. Basic Job Readiness: Courtesy, Flexibility, Reliability, Responsiveness
3. Personal Effectiveness: Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Self-Management, and Thinking Skills.
4. Organizational/Management: Compliance, CQI Commitment, and Leadership, Linking/Networking, Management of Information, Organizational Participation, and Safety
5. Performance Specific: Assessment, Crisis Management, Customer Focus, Cultural Competence, Empowerment/Advocacy, Psychosocial Interventions, Treatment/Service Planning

JUDGMENT: Common sense and good judgment are important to job performance.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Education: High school degree/GED plus experience with adults who have severe and persistent mental illnesses.

Supervisory Responsibilities: None.

Essential Factors: Must have been a recipient of mental health services. Must have a strong commitment to the right and ability of each person with a severe and persistent mental illness to live in normal community residences; work in market job; and have access to helpful, adequate competent, and continuous supports and services. Skills and competence to establish supportive trusting relationships with persons with severe and persistent mental illnesses and respect for client rights and persons preferences in treatment are essential.

Staff Development: Completes all administrative and competency requirements in accordance to the Individual Training Plan. Work toward Certified Peer Specialist credential.