Job purpose                                                                          

The Peer Recovery Support Specialist uses their own unique, life experience to guide and support others who are working towards recovery. Peer Support Specialists work in conjunction with trained and educated professionals. They fill a gap by providing support from the perspective of someone who has first-hand experience.  This position will assist patients to connect with resources to help support their recovery. The Peer Recovery Support Specialist will engage with patients and offer reassurance, reduce fears, answer questions, support motivation and convey hope. This position will aid in the retention of patients through education, motivation for change, empowerment, and encouragement.

Pay Range: $19.00-$22.33 an hour

Duties and responsibilities

The following duties are normal for this position.  These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive.  Other duties may be required and assigned.

·         The Peer Support Specialist first and foremost uses their personal experiences to develop meaningful and trusting relationships with patients, acting as a mentor. As someone who successfully managed their own recovery, the Peer Support Specialist provides patients an example of what they can strive for in their recovery. ·         To support the program, the Peer Support Specialist handles some of the logistics of patient arrival and departure. This may include arranging transportation for the patient, managing follow-up appointments, and working with program administrators and discharge staff members. ·         The Peer Support Specialist works to build a community of both patients and staff that is supportive and conducive to patient growth and recovery. They assist in the creation and implementation of social activities and help create a positive environment for everyone. ·         Peer Support Specialists link up with various community organizations and resources to provide additional support for patients, particularly as they transition from recovery back into the general community. This can include continued healthcare, housing, job assistance, and additional treatment services as well as support in the task of finding or re-integrating with friends, family, and outside communities. ·         Serve as patient advocate and encourage patients how to self-advocate ·         Aid counselors with “No Show” calls as needed ·         Assist with screening calls when needed ·         At residential facilities, will fulfill Recover Specialist duties, such as monitoring of patients, documentation and assisting with patient care, as needed ·         Other duties as assigned

Qualifications Required to Perform Essential Job Functions:

·         Peer Recovery Specialist Certification, through MN Certification Board (MCB) ·         High school diploma, or its equivalent. ·        Hold a current credential from a certification body approved by the commissioner that demonstrates skills and training in the domains of ethics and boundaries, culturally-based approaches and community resources, advocacy, mentoring and education, and recovery and wellness support; ·        Receive ongoing supervision in areas specific to the domains of the recovery peer's role by an alcohol and drug counselor or an individual with a certification approved by the commissioner-MBH will provide this. ·         Minimum of one year and continuing freedom from chemical use problems. ·         Have the ability to work independently.

 

Required Skills, Knowledge and Ability

Strong verbal and writing skills and ability to communicate abstract concepts in a simple format. Ability to communicate with a variety of people from diverse cultures, socioeconomic and educational backgrounds. Flexibility to meet a variety of changing priorities. Computer skills to draft emails, memos, and reporting.

 

Physical Requirement

Hearing                Ability to hear staff, incoming calls, and callers. Vision                   Ability to see computer screen and written charts to document

outcomes and obtain data.

Speaking              Ability to speak to staff and external customers. Sitting                   Approximately 5-6 hours per day. Standing              Approximately 1-2 hours per day.