Job purpose 

The Peer Specialist helps individuals who have psychiatric disabilities develop a network for information and support. A Peer Specialist can share lived experiences of recovery, share and support the use of recovery tools and model successful recovery behaviors.

Qualifications 

• Be at least 21 years of age; 
• Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent;
• Must self-identify as present and/or former person(s)-served of mental health services; (Lived experience)
• Must complete a State approved training program and pass a standardized examination.
• Meet the minimum requirements to be clinically privileged by FCC Behavioral Health. 

Core Job Duties 

• Provides individual assistance to person(s)-served in assessing mental health services including accompanying person(s)-served to appointments to address medical or other health needs.
• Acts as liaison/advocate between person(s)-served and community resources.
• Training, coaching and supporting in daily living skills, including keeping a budget, paying bills and maintaining an independent residence.
• Accompanying person(s)-served to activities in the community, if appropriate.
• Following-up with person(s)-served regarding appointment, completion of forms, returning forms or receipts and other similar activities. 
• Maintains and improve professional competencies through in-service training and other educational responsibilities---especially related to co-occurring.
• Development of self-help groups outside the agency. 
• Helping individuals develop skills and resources that foster success. Progress notes written accurately using the PIRP format and in compliance with the 5-Day Rule (and/or site policy).
• Accurate and timely completion of group counseling and group education logs.
• Ability to effectively utilize computer systems currently employed by FCC.
• Maintain/improve professional competencies through training activities and/or other educational means.
• Maintain awareness regarding the agency vision and assist staff in continuing motivation and empowerment.
• Consistently complies with supervisory directives as it applies to enforcement of facility policies and procedures with person(s)-served. 
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with individuals at all levels of the organization.
• Listen to others to facilitate an open exchange of ideas and provide for effective communication. 
• Orally communicate information effectively and accurately. 
• Assure program operates within the constraints of the agency's certification (CARF, DMH) standards and strategic plan related to clinical care. 
• Maintain confidentiality, at all times, within the legal framework. Will adhere to established guidelines regarding confidentiality as well as the agency's adopted code of ethics.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of person(s)-served as outlined in the agency and site Policies and Procedure Manuals.
• Maintain acceptable attendance record, respect break periods and work with supervisor to ensure coverage during any absence. 
• Exhibit a professional appearance, attitude and demeanor that reflects confidence, positive self-esteem and overall professionalism when working with person(s)-served, co-workers, families and referral sources. 
• Demonstrate initiative and a "can do" attitude. 
• Other job duties and special projects as assigned