Peer Specialist - Clinical Care Services (Part-time)

$36,358 - $57,013/Yr

University of Pittsburgh Medical Center - Pittsburgh, PA

Part-time - Entry Level

Pittsburgh, PA

Hospitals

About the position

The Peer Specialist position at UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital involves providing non-clinical support to individuals with mental health challenges, particularly those with schizophrenia. The role is integral to the treatment team, focusing on recovery values and principles, and includes working directly with patients, running support groups, and managing a caseload. The position is part-time and requires a commitment to helping consumers navigate their recovery journey.

Responsibilities

• Provide peer support services to consumers in the program setting, community, or in the consumer's home as directed by Supervisor.
• Accompany consumers at various community support meetings or events and provide follow-up services in a 1 to 1 setting, by phone, or by mobile visits.
• Advocate for consumers and the recovery message by participating in staff and treatment team meetings, interjecting the consumer viewpoint and recovery goals.
• Demonstrate knowledge and application of Wellness Recovery Action Plan, Personal Medicine, and Mental Health Advanced Directives, sharing personal recovery experiences.
• Maintain appropriate boundaries as described in peer orientation trainings.
• Assist consumers in identifying natural supports and resources in the community and educate them on utilizing these in the recovery process.
• Monitor consumer progress with recovery goals and provide feedback to consumers, family members, and clinical staff.
• Assist consumers in recovery management, identifying recovery goals, barriers, and strategies to meet these goals.
• Maintain all required paperwork and documentation in a timely manner as directed by Supervisor.
• Teach problem-solving and social skills to consumers individually or in group settings through role modeling, coaching, and skill building.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Certified Peer Specialist or Certified Recovery Specialist certification is preferred.
• Lived experience with a self-disclosed primary mental health diagnosis and willingness to share recovery experiences.
• Basic understanding of mental health and co-occurring disorder conditions or substance use that interfere with daily living and mental health wellness.
• Progressed in own recovery and understanding of recovery principles: Hope, Personal Responsibility, Empowerment Skills, Self-Advocacy, Educational Opportunities, and the importance of personal and community supports.
• Ability to articulate that peer support is a non-clinical service promoting recovery wellness.
• Entry-level competency using a computer, including email and Microsoft Word.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in a mental health support role.
• Knowledge of community resources for mental health support.

Benefits

• Parking available on site.