Location: Community-Based / Client Locations
Hours: Varies – According to Recovery Plan

Job Summary:

The Peer Support Specialist provides strength-based, recovery-oriented support services to individuals in accordance with their personalized Recovery Plan. Services focus on promoting independence, self-advocacy, and engagement in meaningful activities within the community.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Coaching and Support in Areas Including:

• Continued development and use of recovery skills
• Participation in community activities and maintaining positive relationships with family and friends
• Personal hygiene and appropriate dress
• Vocational, volunteer, or educational engagement
• Personal responsibility and follow-through on commitments
• Self-advocacy in peer support, self-help, and community settings
• Effective communication with providers to support care continuity
• Building and maintaining natural support systems
• Filing complaints and assisting with resource navigation as needed

2. Prevention Assistance with Risk-Related Behaviors:

• Avoidance of psychiatric crisis triggers
• Discouraging risky behaviors (e.g., unprotected sex, unsafe driving, criminal activity)
• Prevention of substance abuse and overspending
• Support in resolving or avoiding unnecessary conflict

3. Mentorship and Guidance:

• Facilitate the development of effective decision-making and problem-solving skills

4. Recovery Plan Participation:

• Attend and contribute to Recovery Plan development and quarterly updates, as requested by the DMHAS Support Coordinator

5. Transportation Support:

• Travel with participants when also delivering a qualifying waiver service activity

Service Limitations:

• Services are provided within limits defined in the Recovery Plan (number of 15-minute service units per day/week and/or duration in months)
• All activities must align with approved waiver service guidelines and plan authorizations

Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• High school diploma or equivalent required, Must be certified Peer Support Specialist
• Lived experience with mental health or substance use recovery preferred
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Reliable transportation and willingness to travel within the community