PEER SUPPORT SPECIALIST (Community Mental Health) - Control No.: 2409-5120-1971-0001

$41,893 - $62,902/Yr

Genealogical Society Of Washtenaw County Mi - Ann Arbor, MI

Full-time - Entry Level

Ann Arbor, MI

About the position

The Peer Support Specialist is responsible for providing peer support services and consumer advocacy to individuals with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and co-occurring disorders. This role involves assisting consumers in regaining control over their recovery process, coordinating care, and delivering evidence-based interventions under the supervision of qualified mental health clinicians. The position emphasizes fostering recovery, self-determination, and improved quality of life for consumers.

Responsibilities

• Provides direct support to consumers with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and/or co-occurring disorders.
• Coordinates and collaborates with a consumer’s network of care, including primary healthcare, family, and natural supports.
• Uses personal recovery experiences to assist and support clients and the clinical team.
• Enhances clinical team decision-making by ensuring consumer voice and choice is included in planning.
• Promotes recovery through role modeling and sharing experiences, providing hope and encouragement.
• Participates in the planning and implementation of client service plans.
• Assists consumers in identifying recovery goals and setting objectives.
• May accompany staff on outreach to engage individuals and build trusting relationships.
• Understands and utilizes specific interventions to assist consumers in meeting recovery goals.
• Assists consumers in resolving interpersonal conflicts in their environment.
• Teaches skills needed to increase independence in work, safety, social skills, housing, and benefits.
• Encourages consumers to aspire to roles that emphasize their strengths by sharing recovery experiences.
• Assists consumers with the development of critical life skills.
• Provides supportive counseling.
• Assists in systems advocacy to secure needed services for clients.
• Provides support and education regarding mental illness and stigma.
• Educates consumers about their rights and navigating the mental health system.
• Maintains consumer confidentiality and adheres to HIPAA requirements.
• Completes all required documentation in a timely manner consistent with agency guidelines.
• Demonstrates cultural sensitivity and awareness in service delivery.
• Fosters and promotes the organization’s mission, vision, and goals.
• Participates in continuing education activities to enhance services.

Requirements

• Possession of a high school diploma or its equivalent.
• Completion of the State of Michigan Peer Support Specialist training and Certification process within six months of hire is required.
• Experience accessing the public mental health system as a consumer is preferred.
• Knowledge of the Michigan Mental Health Code, including Recipient Rights and Confidentiality provisions.
• Understanding of common developmental disorders and multiple diagnoses, including chronic mental illness and substance abuse.
• Familiarity with recovery-based treatment and peer support.

Nice-to-haves

• Committee work experience.
• Public presentation experience.
• Knowledge of the recovery model.

Benefits

• Regular full-time employment status with a competitive salary range.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.