Certified Peer Support Specialist

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated NC Peer Support Specialist to join our team. This position will provide direct support, guidance, and encouragement to individuals who are facing challenges related to mental health, substance use, or other personal struggles. The Peer Support Specialist will use their lived experience to foster a safe and supportive environment, assisting individuals in their journey toward recovery and wellness.

***This role is in Gastonia, NC***

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide peer support to individuals facing mental health challenges, substance use, or other personal struggles, utilizing your lived experience to build rapport and trust.
• Offer emotional support and encouragement to clients, guiding them through difficult situations and helping them set and achieve their personal goals.
• Assist clients in navigating community resources, including mental health services, medical care, housing, and social support networks.
• Act as an advocate for individuals to help them understand and utilize services available to them.
• Facilitate peer support groups, workshops, and recovery meetings, creating an open and supportive environment for shared learning and growth.
• Develop individualized recovery plans in collaboration with clients, offering practical advice and coping strategies based on personal experience.
• Encourage clients to develop and maintain healthy coping mechanisms, self-advocacy, and a sense of empowerment and independence.
• Maintain appropriate boundaries while fostering trust and support, ensuring that clients feel respected, understood, and valued.
• Document and maintain accurate case notes, progress reports, and other required records in accordance with confidentiality standards and organizational policies.
• Attend team meetings and participate in ongoing training and professional development to stay informed about best practices and resources in the field.
• Provide crisis intervention support when necessary and assist clients in de-escalating stressful situations.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) in North Carolina is required.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain current auto insurance coverage.
• Lived experience with mental health challenges, substance use recovery, or other relevant personal experience that aligns with the populations served.
• Strong communication and active listening skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Empathy, patience, and a non-judgmental attitude toward those in recovery or facing challenges.
• Ability to set healthy boundaries and provide support in a professional, compassionate manner.
• Familiarity with community resources, social services, and mental health/substance use recovery programs.
• Basic computer skills for documentation and reporting purposes.
• Flexibility to work evenings or weekends if required to meet the needs of clients.

Work Environment

• Occasional travel within the community may be required for outreach or client meetings.
• The position may involve working with individuals in various stages of recovery or distress, requiring sensitivity, resilience, and adaptability.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $16.00 - $19.00 per hour

Expected hours: 15 – 20 per week

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Schedule:

• Monday - Friday
• Day Shift

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply 

Work Location: In person