Peer Support Specialists (PSS) provide support services to peers. Peers are individuals experiencing mental health, substance use disorder and/or houselessness. PSSs provide a wide range of supports, services, and advocacy services to individuals who desire peer support that contribute to a peer's ability to engage in ongoing programs and services, promote greater independence, community integration, and recovery from drug, alcohol, and mental health related issues. PSSs may share their own recovery story, if appropriate, and walk the road of recovery alongside the peer.

Duties and responsibilities:

Peer Support:

· Work with peers to identify wellness and recovery goals and build a plan with specific objectives to carry out those goals.

· Exemplify recovery principles to show that recovery is possible and attainable.

· Regularly attend and participate in staff meetings.

· Input/track peer intakes and services in tracking software (HMIS and AWARDS) and complete progress notes in a timely manner.

· Ensure upon intake that eligible peers are enrolled in Oregon Health Plan. If they are not, assist them with enrollment.

· Practice cultural sensitivity, awareness, and competency regarding Person Centered and Peer Delivered Services.

· Customize approach and apply techniques based on peer’s specific needs.

· Connect peers to community resources and make referrals as needed.

· Develop and track peers' goals by meeting regularly.

· Engage and encourage peers to actively work toward goals to move toward self-sufficiency.

· Comply with all health and safety standards per state and MHACBO regulations.

Other duties:

· Provide back-up to other staff-this can include helping at the front desk, helping with showers and laundry, etc.

· Provides support at mealtimes (breakfast and lunch).

· Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements:

· High School diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.

· Certified as a CRM through MHACBO and Traditional Healthcare Worker (PSS) required.

· Two consecutive years in recovery.

· Basic computer skills (Microsoft suite).

· Must be able to pass a state background check.

· Comply with CHANCE, MHACBO, and state guidelines regarding recertifications.

· Maintain valid Oregon Driver’s License, vehicle insurance, reliable vehicle, and acceptable driving record.

· Excellent time management and organizational skills and ability to multi-task.

· Must follow CHANCE’s Code of Conduct, and policies and procedures.

· Must maintain strict confidentiality.

· Maintain personal recovery program and abstinence requirements for credentialing.

Skills:

· Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor and encourage individual respect.

· A team player who works collaboratively with others.

· Ability to work effectively with peers, community partners, general public, medical personnel, corrections personnel, police, co-workers, and groups without bias.

· Comfortable with and open to learning and applying new skills.

· Knowledge of community and social service agencies preferred.

· Sufficient manual dexterity and physical ability to perform assigned tasks, or able to use adaptive equipment to perform assigned tasks, if needed.

· Ability to follow instructions and communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, or with the use of adaptive equipment, if needed.

· Ability to work in an environment where people may be hostile, while contributing to a therapeutic environment.

· Collaborate with CHANCE staff to offer holistic support to peers.

· Knowledge of de-escalation methods or desire to be trained in them; feel comfortable asking for help if not trained in de-escalation.

· Ability to maintain accurate records and necessary documentation.