Description

Peer Support Specialists will work under supervision and as part of a multi-disciplinary team that includes LPHA’s, QMHP’s, and prescribers to assist individuals in services to move toward recovery. Peer Support Specialists will be able to assist and support the individual in identifying and developing community and natural supports while also sharing community resources that are available to the youth.

Peer Support Specialist will collaborate with the team to ensure that services and agency culture are trauma informed, culturally and linguistically competent, and person driven.

Peer Support Specialists work alongside, complement, and enhance the work of the multi-disciplinary team. By drawing on their own lived experience navigating behavioral health systems, Peer Support Specialists can inspire hope and model relationships built on respect, trust, and validation. By sharing their own lived experience, peers help individuals to enhance wellness, create strategies for self-empowerment, and take concrete steps toward building fulfilling, self-determined lives for themselves. Walking alongside the individual on their journey, the peer support specialist is an ally and advocate for individuals with mental health concerns. This mutuality, often called “peerness” promotes connection, builds rapport, and inspires hope.

This position may require travel within Collin County using agency or personal vehicles.

Qualifications

• Must have either 1) a High School Diploma; OR 2) a High School Equivalency Certificate (GED) issued in accordance with the law of the issuing state.
• Additionally, must have at least one cumulative year of receiving mental health community services with a primary diagnosis of mental illness and/or substance used disorder.
• Must demonstrate, at minimum, one-year active recovery and/or sobriety.
• Fully certified as Peer Specialist highly desired.
• Knowledge, experience, and proficiency in using standard Microsoft Office programs and systems databases.
• Strong professional verbal and written communication skills and the ability to empathize with, relate to and effectively partner with individual and team members.
• Must have a willingness to disclose their lived experience, where appropriate, for the purpose of empowerment.
• Must be willing to work flexible hours that are convenient for individuals.
• Must have reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license.
• Knowledge of mental health disorders and recovery concepts.
• Able to travel to attend Peer Specialist Certification training if necessary.