As a self-identified individual with lived experience in mental health services, the Peer Support Specialist offers direct supportive care to individuals within the community. The role emphasizes rehabilitation and recovery, helping clients develop skills to manage psychiatric symptoms and enhance community living. Mobile Peer Support Specialists deliver intensive, goal-oriented assistance to those facing mental health crises and substance use challenges, aiming to stabilize clients in their home environments.

This position involves crisis management response across a five-county area in the Midwest region during evening and night hours. The role works collaboratively with a secondary responder to provide comprehensive support.

Essential Functions

• Support crisis call triaging and provide direct mental health support.
• Assist clients in overcoming barriers to recovery through proactive solutions.
• Conduct trauma-informed risk assessments under the guidance of a Qualified Mental Health Professional.
• Collaborate regularly with community partners, caregivers, family members, physicians, and treatment providers until crisis resolution.
• Participate in care coordination to arrange and monitor services.
• Work schedules include 12-hour shifts, 3 to 4 days per week, covering evenings, overnights, and weekends. PRN staff remain on-call and may be called in as needed.
• Complete timely and accurate documentation and attend required trainings and meetings.

Minimum Knowledge and Skills

• Strong organizational abilities.
• Self-identification as a current or former mental health service consumer with at least one year of stable recovery, per regional guidelines.
• Familiarity with community mental health services.

Behavioral Skills

• Integrity: Demonstrates honesty and a commitment to ethical behavior.
• Compassion: Exhibits empathy and excellent customer service.
• Conflict Management: Able to consider diverse perspectives and offer solutions without compromising project goals.
• Accountability: Takes ownership of tasks and adapts flexibly to changing priorities.
• Respect: Collaborates effectively with diverse populations and maintains a positive service orientation.
• Excellence: Strong communication and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to lead daily operations.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Must be at least 18 years old and three years older than the youth served.
• Preferred: Two years of experience working with adults and children in health-related fields.

Licenses and Certifications

• Completion of state-required trainings for Peer Support Specialists.
• Valid driver's license, insurance, and reliable vehicle.