Facility

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center

Location

Fayetteville, North Carolina

Department

Paramedic Mental Health Program

Job Family

Clerical

Work Shift

Days (United States of America)

Summary

The Peer Support Specialist should be able to draw upon personal life experience in his/her work with clients and feel comfortable with the self-disclosure of some aspects of those experiences with mental health issues, substance abuse issues, and/or treatment and recovery, while maintaining appropriate boundaries. The Peer Support Specialist is a fully integrated team member who provides highly individualized services in the community and promotes individual self-determination and decision-making. The Peer Support Specialist also provides essential expertise and consultation to the Community Paramedic team, peer agencies, families, and patient to promote a culture in which each individual’s point of view and preferences are recognized, understood, respected, and integrated into treatment, rehabilitation, and community self-help activities.

Education And Formal Training

High school diploma or GED. Able to earn certification as a Certified Peer Support Specialist within one (1) year. Certification is thru the NC Department of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services of the NC Department of Health and Human Services.

Work Experience

At least one year of peer support experience or related work experience preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Required

Knowledge of harm reduction principles and syringe exchange laws preferred. Basic knowledge of personal safety standards, safety techniques and safety principals that guide home visits. Must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings, with the ability to work as a team member. Must maintain professional boundaries while working with sensitive issues and must be comfortable working with diverse group of people using a harm reduction framework. Must be comfortable with public speaking and group presentations. Should have excellent written and oral communication skills. Knowledge of, and the ability to apply correctly, the policies and procedures of the EMS Department. Ability to deal tactfully and firmly with the general public, other county, and/or city personnel. Ability to drive vehicles and a thorough knowledge of safe driving procedures. Ability to learn, understand, and apply additional training and education; determine need for and recommend in-service training/education; for the purpose of increased efficiency of EMS staff. Ability to use EMS type communications systems, communicating effectively and coherently within the confines of those systems. Is knowledgeable of the age specific physiological, psychosocial, developmental, and spiritual needs of the patients typically served.

Physical Requirements

Hearing, speaking, and visual acuity are required for effective supervision. Ability to operate an emergency vehicle and the ability to move around numerous physical locations and within a confined area. Ability to lift heavy objects, up to 150 pounds, with assistance and to assume awkward positions in emergency situations. Position may involve exposure to skin, eye, mucous membrane, or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials.

Special Requirements

Driving record check with law enforcement agency required. Must have three (3) years licensed driving experience in North Carolina or the equivalent.

Required Licenses And Certifications

Cape Fear Valley Health System is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disability/Veteran/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity