Peer Support Specialist I

Agency Profile: Spectrum Health & Human Services respectfully partners with adults, children, and families as they recover from behavioral, emotional, mental health and/or substance related disorders by offering individualized and meaningful opportunities of hope, empowerment, and support to achieve self-defined improvements in their quality of life.

Full-time: City Mission- 100 East Tupper Street, Buffalo, NY

SUMMARY OF POSITION FUNCTION:

Provide peer support to individuals with behavioral health issues who are enrolled in Spectrum Human Services’ CCBHC.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Knowledge and demonstration of agency core values in day-to-day activities
• Advocacy
• Outreach and Engagement
• Self Help Tools
• Peer Recovery Supports and Peer Counseling
• Transitional Supports
• Pre-Crisis and Crisis Support Services
• Engagement, Peer Bridge Services, and Services to Assist Individuals transitioning between service systems or between residential or Inpatient Settings to the Community
• Self-Advocacy, Self-Efficacy, and Empowerment
• Parent Skill Development and Training, Family/caregiver Psychoeducation
• Community Connections and Natural Supports
• Assist individuals with goals of Independent Living Skills
• Be a positive role model especially in sharing one’s own recovery from behavioral health issues
• Assist individuals in obtaining their goals as written in their Individualized Action Plans
• Ability to utilize electronic data systems (i.e. electronic records and computers)
• Assist individuals in developing WRAP plan
• Any other duties deemed necessary by supervisor

SKILLS/COMPETENCIES:

• Proficient in the use of computer software such as MSWord, Excel, Power Point, Desktop Publishing, Outlook, etc.
• Ability to engage and connect with individuals who have a behavioral health disorder and or their families
• Motivational Interviewing
• Ability to develop a WRAP and or Wellness Management and Recovery
• Cognitive Behavioral Motivational Enhancement Therapy

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Must possess a Family Peer Advocate Credential or
• NYCPS Certified Peer Specialist Credential or
• OASAS Certified Peer Advocate Credential (CRPA) or
• Certified Addiction Recovery Coach Credential

EXPERIENCE:

• Preferred one (1) year work-related experience. lived experience with homelessness

• Must possess a valid Driver’s License and a vehicle with an acceptable driving record

• Must be current or former recipient of behavioral health services or have a family member who has or is receiving behavioral health services

COMPENSATION: $23.09/hr - $29.44/hr