Certified Peer Specialist (PRN/temporary)

National Smart Healthcare Services is seeking a PRN (temporary/as needed) certified Peer Specialist. A Peer Specialist is a person who uses his or her lived experience of recovery from mental illness and/or addiction. In addition to skills learned in formal training, to deliver services in behavioral health settings to promote mind-body recovery and resiliency.

The Peer Specialist will work collaboratively with clients in the National's service community. He/she will advocate on behalf of clients and help them to navigate the health and social services systems. The Peer Specialist will act as a coach and mentor and help clients to set goals and work toward necessary developing skills.

Responsibilities:

• Serve as a mentor for others with mental illness as each person pursues his/her individual Recovery journey.
• Teaches others about managing their mental illness.
• Demonstrates ways to become empowered and self-responsible.
• Supports others in learning how to make good choices for themselves.
• Resource acquisition including assisting consumers with application for benefits, basic needs such as housing, food, clothing, medical, dental care, legal, vocational, psychiatric services, etc.
• Coordinate with internal and external providers to assist consumers in reaching their goals
• Promotes consumer engagement in therapy with clinicians
• Exhibits enthusiasm, respect, adaptability, flexibility, and spirit of cooperation in the work environment
• Maintains appropriate professional standards and provides appropriate follow-up for consumer
• Demonstrates ability to work with consumers with diverse backgrounds.

Qualifications: High school diploma/G.E.D. Must have worked within the last three years with at least 12 months total of successful or part or full-time paid or voluntary work experience with people with mental illness. The Peer Specialist must have acquired or meet the qualifications for certification as a Certified Peer Specialist. Individual must have an understanding of and respect for each individual’s unique path. The Peer Specialist will serve as a role model, mentor, advocate and motivator to clients with varying states of mental illness. The Peer Specialist must demonstrate an ability to share personal experiences and to develop authentic peer-to-peer relationships.