Peer Support Specialists (FT)

PEER SUPPORT SPECIALISTS (FT)
LOCATIONS:  VARIOUS LOCATIONS
WORK HOURS: Varies, includes nights and weekends/Non Exempt

High School Diploma or GED required. Certified Recovery Peer Specialist or Certified Recovery Support Specialist preferred but will consider applicants working toward certification, supplemented by knowledge and experience in mental health/substance abuse recovery and must be able to serve as role model of recovery through personal live-experience. This is a professional position which the individual will provide non-clinical, evidenced based support services within the different locations by performing tasks designed to assist patients in wellness and recovery to promote self-advocacy. Under the supervision of the Recovery Connection Manager, the PSS will serve as an advocate and function as a role model to peers; exhibiting competency in personal recovery and use of coping skills. The PSS is responsible for establishing a rapport with overdose survivors, substance use and co-occurring persons as well as to teach, lead, and mentor individuals to reach personal wellness and recovery goals.  The PSS will promote social learning through experiences; encourage patients to develop independent behaviors that are based on choice rather than compliance. Assist patients to establish life skills, including personal care and social responsibility habits. They will assist patients to establish/reestablish and maintain healthy interpersonal relationships. Assisting patients with accessing information and resources necessary to make informed decisions to positively affect the patients’ overall wellness and recovery. Assist and motivate patients to navigate the array of services available to achieve and maintain recovery. Engage and assist patients to move through the stages of recovery and develop personal recovery plans and social capital.

QUALIFICATIONS:

High School Diploma or GED required. Certified Recovery Peer Specialist or Certified Recovery Support Specialist preferred through the Florida Certification Board or the ability to complete certification within first year of employment.  This position will require driving to various locations so they must have a valid state of Florida driver’s license with safe driving record based on the agencies insurance company. Be able to pass an agency driving test to drive a company vehicle to facilitate outings and events.

• Must be able to pass a level II DCF background screening
• Must be able to perform assigned work independently with minimal supervision
• Ability to relate to adolescents, adults, families, referral sources and internal Gateway Team Members and must possess requisite competencies to effectively understand and provide appropriate services to the patient population served
• Ability to maintain positive team approach
• Ability to work in fast-paced environment under stress situations
• Must have knowledge of the 12 step recovery process