Delve into the fundamental qualifications, critical tasks, primary responsibilities, and essential skills that should be highlighted in a detailed Peer Support Specialist job description.
What does a Peer Support Specialist do?
A Peer Support Specialist is someone who helps and supports individuals struggling with substance abuse, mental health disorders, or psychological trauma. They have personal experience with similar challenges and work closely with other professionals to provide counseling and rehabilitation.
Job Description
We are looking for a caring and understanding Peer Support Specialist to guide and assist our clients. In this role, you will have regular one-on-one meetings with clients, create recovery plans, manage schedules and logistics, and respond to emergencies when necessary.
To be successful as a Peer Support Specialist, you must have empathy and excellent communication skills. A great Peer Support Specialist can easily recognize warning signs and offer effective interventions and emotional support.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Responding to client emergencies when needed.
- Meeting with clients regularly to provide support and counseling.
- Creating recovery plans and coping strategies with clients.
- Coordinating medical appointments, therapy sessions, and other resources for clients.
- Monitoring clients' behavior, schedules, medications, and activities.
- Reporting any concerning behavior or conflicts to professionals.
- Communicating regularly with family members and medical professionals.
- Managing logistics for clients, such as scheduling appointments.
- Conducting assessments and giving feedback to clients and professionals.
- Keeping track of clients' progress through reviews and documents.
Requirements and Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED.
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
- Certification in CIPSS or NCPS preferred.
- Must pass a drug test and have no involvement with substances.
- At least one year of experience as a Peer Support Specialist.
- Personal experience with mental health conditions, substance abuse, or trauma.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Highly compassionate and detail-oriented.
- Good knowledge of recovery resources, such as the 12-step program and support groups.
- Flexibility to be on call for emergencies and work on weekends and holidays.
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