Peer Support Specialist - Re-entry Community Service Program (RCSP)

$45,760 - $55,765/Yr

Frontier Behavioral Health - Spokane, WA

Full-time - Entry Level

Spokane, WA

Ambulatory Health Care Services

About the position

Frontier Behavioral Health has a long-standing presence in Spokane, spanning over 100 years, which has equipped our non-profit organization with a deep understanding of the diverse needs of our clients and the broader community. Our programs are meticulously designed to deliver evidence-based treatment to adults, youth, and seniors grappling with a wide array of behavioral health issues. As a Trauma-Informed Care Organization, we are committed to the belief that recovery is possible and that our clients can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. It is both an honor and a privilege for us to assist them on their journey toward recovery. The Re-entry Community Services Program (RCSP) and Mental Health Sentencing Alternative (MHSA) clients are at the heart of our mission. These clients often face serious and persistent mental illnesses and have histories of incarceration. Our collaboration with Community Corrections Officers from the Department of Corrections aims to reduce the likelihood of these clients returning to prison. Our dedicated staff provides essential case management and treatment services, referrals to appropriate resources, and works closely with the Department of Corrections to support and divert clients from further incarceration. Peer Support Specialists play a crucial role in promoting community integration, resilience, and quality of life objectives for clients and their families. They share relevant personal experiences when appropriate, fostering hope and resilience while helping to decrease the stigma surrounding mental illness. Our Peer Support Services are available to individuals and families of all ages, and can be delivered on both an individual and group basis. As a member of a multi-disciplinary team, the Peer Support Specialist will assist other Frontier Behavioral Health team members in developing treatment objectives and interventions for clients enrolled in mental health services. Responsibilities include providing peer counseling and support, identifying services that promote recovery, mentoring clients in self-advocacy, and facilitating recovery groups. The role also involves engaging with clients prior to their discharge from inpatient psychiatric care, assisting them in transitioning back into the community, and maintaining timely and confidential client records in accordance with agency policies.

Responsibilities

• Assist other FBH team members in the development of treatment objectives and interventions for clients enrolled in mental health services.
• Provide peer counseling and support to clients, parents, caregivers, and community supports.
• Identify services and activities that promote recovery and resilience for clients.
• Mentor clients to build self-advocacy skills and navigate health systems.
• Promote personal responsibility for recovery as defined by the client and/or mental health service provider.
• Facilitate individual and group services for enrolled clients, including recovery groups.
• Support clients in pursuing educational, vocational, or volunteer services.
• Engage with clients prior to discharge from inpatient psychiatric care and assist in their transition into the community.
• Contact clients who miss scheduled appointments to identify barriers and problem-solve solutions.
• Work with clients in preparation for graduating from services.
• Engage with community partners as stipulated in contracts and program design.
• Maintain client records and documentation in a timely and confidential manner.
• Provide after-hours coverage on a scheduled rotation, if applicable.

Requirements

• Lived experience with mental illness and self-identification as a current or former recipient of mental health services.
• At least one year of recovery from mental health and/or substance use disorder.
• Certification as a Peer Counselor consistent with WAC 388-865-0107, required within 90 days of employment.
• High School diploma or equivalent.

Nice-to-haves

• One year of experience working as a Certified Peer Counselor in Washington State or equivalent.
• Two years of experience working in a community behavioral health setting.

Benefits

• Competitive pay based on education and experience.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Supportive work environment focused on employee contributions and community impact.