What are the responsibilities and job description for the Residential Peer Specialist position at MY House?
Job Title: Residential Peer Specialist
Location: Wasilla, AK
Position Type: Swing shift
Reports To: Program Manager
Pay Range: 22-25
Job Summary
The Peer Specialist offers crucial support to participants in a residential treatment facility by drawing on their own recovery experiences. This role is essential for creating a nurturing environment that promotes healing, personal development, and community involvement. The Peer Support Specialist will play a key role in facilitating participants’ growth and successful completion of their treatment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Engage with participants to provide encouragement, empathy, and understanding based on shared experiences.
- Facilitate peer support groups and workshops to promote sharing, connection, and mutual support.
- Offer strategies for coping with challenges and setbacks in the recovery process.
- Recognize signs of distress and provide immediate support to residents in crisis.
- Participate in team meetings to share insights and contribute to care planning.
- Promote a culture of empowerment, respect, and dignity among residents.
Recording Keeping and Documentation:
- Monitor and document participant behavior and communicate observations and insights to the clinical team.
- Ensure proper documentation of client data, treatment sessions, and any changes in participant status according to established protocols.
Assist with Medication Management
- Observe client self-administer medications according to prescribed instructions ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.
- Monitor residents for any side effects or adverse reactions related to medication, and report concerns to the clinical team.
Qualifications
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent; additional training in social services or mental health preferred.
- Experience: Personal experience in recovery from substance use or mental health challenges with a minimum of six months in recovery; previous peer support experience is a plus.
- Certification: Certified Peer Specialist or similar certification preferred; willingness to obtain certification if not already held.
Skills and Competencies
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to build rapport and trust with diverse populations.
- Knowledge of recovery-oriented practices and principles.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
- Compassion, empathy, and strong problem-solving skills.
Working Conditions
- May require flexibility in hours, including evening and weekend shifts.
- Physical ability to engage in activities and provide support to residents as needed.
