Peer Support Specialist- Assertive Community Treatment

Overview

The Peer Support Specialist works as an active member of the assigned team in an adult outpatient setting, providing a wide range of clinical and administrative services to community partners, Options' clients, and people seeking services. Utilizes Feedback Informed Treatment (FIT) in delivery of client services. Options provides on the job training and supervision for FIT.

Responsibilities

Provides education on issues related to mental health and available services, and promotes access and engagement in needed services. Serves as liaison to community resources, and assists Options clients in using these resources to enhance their independent living skills. This position works both in the office and in the community.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and a general understanding of the population served. Some post-secondary coursework preferred.
• Have a history of receiving mental health services and be well-grounded in one's own recovery, with at least a year since diagnosis preferred.
• Knowledge and skills sufficient for establishing effective relationships with clients who have a mental illness in order to support them in their own recovery.
• Competency in recognizing behavioral issues and symptoms of mental illnesses for the purpose of electronic documentation and communication with members of the treatment team.
• Must be eligible to become certified as a Peer Support Specialist on the State registry and attend required trainings for certification when available.
• Transports clients to facilitate client-directed services, travels between sites and is required to drive.
• Candidates must be able to use e-mail, compose documents, save and locate documents electronically, and learn to use our Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. Proficiency in Word and other MS Office applications preferred.
• Must pass state-required background and DMV checks; possess a valid OR driver's license and a satisfactory driving record to transport clients.
• Candidate must be able to work independently and flexibly, under general supervision.
• Possess mature attitude and sensitivity to the needs of people who have a chronic mental illness; understanding of HIPAA laws regarding confidentiality of privileged information; ability to follow verbal and written instructions; ability to work independently and with staff as agency needs dictate.