Peer Support Specialist – Youth
Options for Southern Oregon
Summary
The Peer Support Specialist advocates for youths and promotes a strengths-based framework from which services are provided. This position will work as an active member of the treatment team supporting the youth's own recovery process through community engagement and other independent skill building activities. Utilizes Feedback Informed Treatment (FIT) in delivery of client services. Options provides on the job training and supervision for FIT.
Job description
Overview
The Peer Support Specialist advocates for youths and promotes a strengths-based framework from which services are provided. This position will work as an active member of the treatment team supporting the youth's own recovery process through community engagement and other independent skill building activities. Utilizes Feedback Informed Treatment (FIT) in delivery of client services. Options provides on the job training and supervision for FIT.
Responsibilities
The Peer Support Specialist provides coaching, education, support, and encouragement to youth to use their own voice in expressing their views clearly, and in making informed choices regarding their service and support needs, and must be able to relate to the youth population they serve. They also work collaboratively to increase youth and family involvement and decrease unintentional bias/stigma about children and youth receiving services.
This position provides education on issues related to mental health and available services, and promotes access and engagement in needed services.
Transports clients to facilitate client-directed services, travels between sites and is required to drive.
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.
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 be approved for driving rights. 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.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- General understanding of the population served
- History of receiving mental health services and well-grounded in own recovery
- At least a year since diagnosis preferred
- Knowledge and skills for establishing effective relationships with clients who have a mental illness
- Competency in recognizing behavioral issues and symptoms of mental illnesses for electronic documentation and communication
- Eligible to become certified as a Peer Support Specialist on the State registry
- Attend required trainings for certification when available
- Ability to use e-mail, compose documents, save and locate documents electronically
- Learn to use Electronic Health Record (EHR) system
- Must pass state-required background and DMV checks
- Possess a valid OR driver's license and satisfactory driving record
- Ability to work independently and flexibly, under general supervision
- Mature attitude and sensitivity to the needs of people who have a chronic mental illness
- Understanding of HIPAA laws regarding confidentiality
- Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
- Ability to work independently and with staff as agency needs dictate
Benefits
- Family medical, dental, long term disability
- 403(b) plan with 6% match
- Generous paid time off
- 11 paid holidays
- Bilingual skills premium
- Oregon Behavioral Health Loan Repayment Program
Company overview
Options for Southern Oregon is a nonprofit mental health care organization serving communities in Southern Oregon. The organization provides comprehensive behavioral health services to individuals and families facing mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and related issues. As a community-based healthcare provider, Options for Southern Oregon focuses on delivering accessible, quality mental health care through various programs including counseling, crisis intervention, case management, and supportive services. The organization plays a vital role in addressing the mental health needs of the region by offering evidence-based treatments, prevention services, and community outreach programs. Their mission centers on promoting mental wellness, reducing stigma around mental health issues, and supporting individuals in achieving recovery and improved quality of life. Operating as a nonprofit entity, Options for Southern Oregon works collaboratively with other healthcare providers, social service agencies, and community partners to create a comprehensive support network for those in need throughout Southern Oregon.