General Statement of Duties

The Peer Support Specialist provides support and encouragement to individuals experiencing behavioral health challenges. Using their own lived experience, they help clients navigate recovery, access resources, and develop coping strategies. This position is crucial in promoting recovery-oriented practices and enhancing the overall effectiveness of behavioral health services.

Responsibilities

• Offer empathetic listening and support to clients, sharing personal experiences to foster hope and resilience.
• Resource Navigation: Assist clients in identifying and accessing community resources, services, and supports.
• Skills Development: Facilitate skill building sessions focused on coping strategies, self-advocacy, and life skills.
• Group Facilitation: Lead support groups and workshops to promote peer interaction and learning.
•  Case Management Support: Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care for clients.
•  Documentation: Maintain accurate records of client interactions and progress in accordance with organizational policies.
•  Crisis Intervention: Provide immediate support during crises, helping clients to stabilize and connect with appropriate services.
•  Advocacy: Advocate for clients’ needs and rights within the healthcare system and the community.
• Training and Development: Participate in ongoing training to enhance skills and knowledge related to

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require post-secondary education in a related field.
• Experience: Lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges
• Certification: Certification as a Peer Support Specialist may be required or preferred, depending on the location and employer.
• Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills, ability to establish rapport, and a commitment to maintaining client confidentiality

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Federally Qualified Health Centers
• Previous peer support experience

Physical Demands Required to Fulfill Essential Functions of this Position.

Employee must be able to sit or stand for extended periods of time. Employee must be able to focus on tasks while in an active office environment where conversation and noise is prevalent. Employee must be able to operate a keyboard, write, speak, and hear. Employees must be able to read small print both on paper and on a computer screen for extended periods of time. Ability to occasionally lift to twenty pounds.

Additional Requirements

• Submit to and pass a drug test
• Compliance with federal laws regarding  Drug free workplace, and Marijuana use.
• Successfully complete a criminal background check
• Must be able to work beyond normal working hours, including weekends.

Working Conditions

There may be exposure to airborne and bloodborne pathogens, and hazardous materials. This position may include working remotely.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

La Pine Community Health Center provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. La Pine Community Health Center complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the organization has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfers, leave of absence, compensation, and training.