Adult Peer Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary:

The Parent Peer Support Specialist provides support to adults living with substance use disorders (SUD), severe mental illness (SMI), or co-occurring conditions. As someone with lived experience of recovery, the Peer Specialist uses personal insight to inspire hope, model recovery, and help individuals navigate the behavioral health system. This role provides emotional support, advocacy, and practical assistance, empowering individuals to work toward recovery and community integration.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build trusting relationships with individuals based on mutual respect, empathy, and shared lived experience.
• Offer peer support services, including recovery coaching, advocacy, and assistance with accessing community resources.
• Provide support in a variety of settings, including the office, community, or clients' homes.
• Assist clients in identifying personal goals, developing recovery plans, and taking steps toward wellness.
• Facilitate or co-facilitate peer-led support groups and recovery-oriented activities.
• Work collaboratively with treatment teams, including clinicians, case managers, and medical providers.
• Maintain appropriate boundaries and confidentiality in accordance with agency policy and HIPAA regulations.
• Model healthy coping strategies and recovery-focused behavior.
• Complete documentation of peer services and progress notes accurately and in a timely manner.
• Participate in ongoing training, supervision, and team meetings.
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Lived experience with substance use recovery and/or managing a severe mental illness, with at least one year of demonstrated recovery.
• Certification as a Peer Specialist (or willingness to obtain certification within 6 months of hire).
• Knowledge of recovery principles, peer support values, and harm reduction practices.
• Ability to engage and connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.
• Strong communication skills and a non-judgmental, compassionate approach.
• Basic computer and documentation skills.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation may be required depending on service area.

Transportation Responsibilities:

• Provide transportation for consumers as needed using agency or personal vehicles.
• Maintain a safe driving record and valid driver’s license with personal liability insurance.
• Follow all agency transportation policies, including seatbelt usage, safe cellphone practices, and vehicle documentation.
• Immediately report any vehicle issues, accidents, or violations to appropriate personnel.

Work Environment & Schedule:

• This position involves extended periods of walking, standing, and occasional lifting of up to 50+ pounds.
• The schedule is variable and may require evening, overnight, weekend, or holiday shifts in a 24-hour facility.
• Exposure to emotionally stressful situations may occur.

In-Service Training & Continued Education Requirements:

• Participate in all required agency and ADMH trainings, including ongoing continuing education for CPS-P certification.
• Must complete ADMH Certified Peer Specialist – Parent training and certification exam within six (6) months of hire, if not already certified.
• Completion of PCM Practitioner I or II training required based on program needs.