Peer Support Specialist

JOB SUMMARY

The Peer Support Specialist plays a key role in supporting families and children facing mental health challenges. With lived experience in behavioral health, these specialists foster trust and understanding while helping families navigate services. They provide individualized support, assist with accessing resources, and promote self-determination. Peer Support Specialists also engage in community outreach and collaborate with the treatment team to create effective care plans, using their experiences to inspire hope and resilience in the families they serve. The Peer Support Specialist reports directly to the Case Manager Supervisor and receives oversight from the Clinical Leadership Team.

POSITION SUMMARY

1. Advocate for and promote the perspectives of peers and families/caregivers within the mental health system and practices at HHMH.

2. Provide one-on-one peer support, mentoring, advocacy, and problem-solving to help clients and families navigate mental health care and access external resources.

3. Lead support groups focused on peer recovery, family support, and wellness, promoting a recovery-oriented environment.

4. Educate clients, families, and caregivers about mental health, wellness, and the recovery process.

5. Assist clients in navigating the Tulare County Mental Health system to ensure their needs are met by the appropriate providers.

6. Uphold HIPAA standards, maintain ethical boundaries, and contribute to a culture that values diversity. Participate in multidisciplinary treatment teams as needed.

7. Accurately document client services and encounters in compliance with all policies, and perform clerical duties related to job responsibilities.

8. Engage with community groups and other agencies through education, consultation, and presentations.

9. Attend required trainings and workshops to support ongoing professional development.

10. Comply with HHMH policies per the Employee Handbook and Operations Manual.

11. Essential job duties may be assigned that are not listed above but are relative to this job classification. (Reasonable accommodation will be made when requested and determined by HHMH to be appropriate under applicable law.)

ESSENTIAL POSITION REQUIREMENTS

1. High school diploma or equivalent required. Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Certification (PSSC) preferred; candidates without certification may obtain it after hire.

2. Bilingual in Spanish is preferred.

3. Understanding of the recovery process from mental illness, either through personal experience or as a parent, caregiver, or family member of someone in recovery. Must be willing to share their story.

4. Familiarity with programs, treatment methods, and community resources for supporting individuals with mental illness.

5. Knowledge of mental health concepts, including the physical, emotional, and social needs of individuals with mental illness, and an understanding of the cultural and socioeconomic factors affecting mental health.

6. Ability to effectively communicate and work with individuals from diverse educational and socioeconomic backgrounds, respecting their beliefs, interpersonal styles, and behaviors.

7. Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.

8. Ability to maintain positive relationships with clients, colleagues, and external partners while representing the organization professionally.

9. Possession of a valid driver’s license and reliable, insured transportation that complies with all legal requirements.

10. Proficiency in using necessary tools and technology, including computers, keyboards, and other relevant electronic equipment.

Must be accessible via cell phone when needed.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $21.00 - $29.55 per hour

Expected hours: 15 – 30 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $21 - $30