The Peer Support Specialist provides peer support services, serves as an advocate, and provides education and support for members. They will role model competency in recovery and ongoing coping skills.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Creates a welcoming, accepting environment in the Freedom Center. Encourages the development of friendships, positive interaction, and leisure activities.
• Uses their unique recovery experience to
• Teach and role model the value of every individual’s recovery experience.
• Model effective coping techniques and self-help strategies.
• Maintains working knowledge of current trends and developments in the mental health field
• Provides and advocates for effective recovery-based services and assists members to obtain services suited to their recovery needs
• Informs consumers about community and natural supports and how to utilize these in the recovery process.
• Assisting consumers in developing empowerment skills through self-advocacy and stigma-busting.
• Provides accurate and timely information to your supervisor on all topics and issues related to the operation of the Requirements
  
  

EDUCATION:

• High school diploma or GED.
  
  

EXPERIENCE:

• Knowledge and understanding of the recovery process and models.
• Ability to teach and guide others through the recovery process. Ability to work and make decisions independently.
• Understanding and ability to advocate for others.
• Ability to facilitate discussions or groups and teach others how to communicate with service providers.
• Ability to recognize stigma. Knowledge of illness, medications, and treatment. Ability to work as an effective team player.
• Daily access to a personal vehicle is required. Must obtain and maintain $100,000/$300,000/$100,000 bodily injury and liability insurance. Subject to validation every six months.
• May be required to provide transportation for members of the program using a Thresholds provided vehicle or personal vehicle. Must be 23 years of age and meet all insurance carrier’s requirements.
  
  

SKILLS/CERTIFICATIONS:

• Current and valid driver’s license.
  
  

Thresholds is a mission-driven agency with a deep commitment to fostering an environment where all feel valued and respected, a place where every employee can be themselves, thrive, and support the agency's mission. Click here to learn more.

One of the oldest and largest mental health organizations in Illinois, we pride ourselves in being a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace and one of Chicago's 101 Best & Brightest Companies to work for, several years in a row.