Job Description
Job DescriptionOverview
The Residential Peer Support Specialist plays a vital role in supporting residents in our Women's Dual Diagnosis Program, a program that serves Women with a primary substance use disorder and a co-occurring severe and persistent mental illness. This service is highly structured, with integrated treatment to stabilize symptoms and engage clients in a program of maintenance, treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery. The Peer Support Specialist uses personal lived experience, trauma-informed care, and peer-based approaches to empower residents in their recovery and daily lives.
Qualifications
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Preferred age 21+ with a high school diploma or GED.
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Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) certification highly recommended; candidates not yet certified must be committed to obtaining certification as soon as possible.
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Able to pass initial and random drug screenings.
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Knowledge of behavioral health disorders and willingness to expand expertise.
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Strong written and verbal communication skills.
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Resourceful, confident, and skilled problem solver.
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Maintains confidentiality (42 CFR, HIPAA).
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Works well independently and as part of a team.
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Valid driver’s license and insurable under agency policy.
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Good stress management and ability to follow directives.
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Flexible schedule (evenings, weekends, holidays).
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Non-judgmental, caring, and growth-oriented attitude.
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Self-motivated, adaptable, and optimistic.
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Trauma-informed and culturally competent approach.
Duties and Responsibilities
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Training and Certification – Complete and maintain all required certifications (e.g., Medication Aide, First Aid/CPR, Confidentiality, Ethics, Cultural Competency, De-escalation, Trauma-Informed Care, Crisis Management).
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Referral Coordination – Partner with the Case Manager to complete referrals, connect with prospective residents, and ensure interim support is provided as needed.
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Resident Engagement – Foster a positive, therapeutic, trauma-informed environment; model positive behaviors and coping skills; assist with communication, problem-solving, and recovery strategies.
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Treatment Participation – Facilitate resident orientation, promote skill-building and advocacy, provide transportation as needed, participate in treatment team meetings, and assist with discharge or temporary placements.
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Clerical Tasks – Answer phones, complete documentation (behavioral observations, incidents, group and progress notes) accurately and promptly.
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Peer Support Services – Conduct one-on-one peer sessions, help residents set goals, track progress, and collaborate with treatment teams.