Peer Support Specialist

Overview

The Residential Peer Support Specialist plays a vital role in supporting residents in our Men’s Dual Diagnosis Program, which serves men navigating both substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders in a structured, therapeutic residential environment. Recovery and mental health are complex journeys, and our program provides the integrated support needed to address both while building skills for long-term stability and recovery. The Peer Support Specialist uses personal lived experience, trauma-informed care, and peer-based approaches to empower residents, build hope, and support them throughout their recovery and daily lives.

Qualifications

• Preferred age 21+ with a high school diploma or GED.

• Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) certification highly recommended; candidates not yet certified must be committed to obtaining certification as soon as possible.

• Able to pass initial and random drug screenings.

• Knowledge of behavioral health disorders and willingness to expand expertise.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Resourceful, confident, and skilled problem solver.

• Maintains confidentiality (42 CFR, HIPAA).

• Works well independently and as part of a team.

• Valid driver’s license and insurable under agency policy.

• Good stress management and ability to follow directives.

• Flexible schedule (evenings, weekends, holidays).

• Non-judgmental, caring, and growth-oriented attitude.

• Self-motivated, adaptable, and optimistic.

• Trauma-informed and culturally competent approach.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Training and Certification – Complete and maintain all required certifications (e.g., Medication Aide, First Aid/CPR, Confidentiality, Ethics, Cultural Competency, De-escalation, Trauma-Informed Care, Crisis Management).

2. Referral Coordination – Partner with the Case Manager to complete referrals, connect with prospective residents, and ensure interim support is provided as needed.

3. Resident Engagement – Foster a positive, therapeutic, trauma-informed environment; model positive behaviors and coping skills; assist with communication, problem-solving, and recovery strategies.

4. Treatment Participation – Facilitate resident orientation, promote skill-building and advocacy, provide transportation as needed, participate in treatment team meetings, and assist with discharge or temporary placements.

5. Clerical Tasks – Answer phones, complete documentation (behavioral observations, incidents, group and progress notes) accurately and promptly.

6. Peer Support Services – Conduct one-on-one peer sessions, help residents set goals, track progress, and collaborate with treatment teams.

7. Schedule – Work every other weekend and perform other duties as assigned.