Job Title: Peer Support Specialist – Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Program
Department: Programs - Office of the Sheriff
Location: Durham, NC
Reports To: MAT Program Coordinator or Clinical Supervisor
Position Type: Full-time
Position Overview:
The Peer Support Specialist will work as part of the Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) team within the jail setting to provide peer-based support for incarcerated individuals enrolled in the MAT program. The role is designed to facilitate recovery, promote positive behaviors, and assist with navigating the transition to long-term recovery after release. The Peer Support Specialist will offer empathetic support, share lived experiences, and provide guidance to individuals undergoing treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) or other substance use disorders (SUD).
Key Responsibilities:
- Peer Support and Mentorship:
- Provide emotional support and encouragement to individuals enrolled in the MAT program.
- Share personal experiences and strategies to aid others in their recovery journey.
- Promote a culture of hope, resiliency, and recovery within the jail setting.
- Assisting with Treatment Engagement:
- Encourage active participation in MAT-related activities, including counseling and medication sessions.
- Help individuals understand their treatment plans and medication regimens.
- Support individuals in setting and achieving short- and long-term recovery goals.
- Supportive Services:
- Assist in the facilitation of group or individual peer support meetings or recovery-related activities.
- Provide information and resources on available services, including mental health care, medical care, and post-release services.
- Advocate for individuals’ needs within the MAT program or to other staff as necessary.
- Relapse Prevention:
- Help individuals identify potential triggers and develop coping mechanisms to prevent relapse.
- Promote healthy coping strategies and self-care practices.
- Collaboration:
- Work closely with medical and clinical staff, including doctors, nurses, and counselors, to ensure continuity of care.
- Serve as a liaison between inmates and MAT program staff to improve treatment and outcomes.
- Recordkeeping and Reporting:
- Maintain accurate documentation of peer interactions, progress, and any concerns to share with clinical staff.
- Report any changes in the inmates' condition or behavior to relevant staff in a timely manner.
Qualifications:
- Required:
- Lived experience with substance use disorder recovery (either personally or as a family member or close associate).
- Must have completed a peer support certification program or be willing to complete it within a specified time frame.
- Strong communication skills, including active listening and empathy.
- Ability to maintain professional boundaries while offering peer support.
- Understanding of the principles of MAT and its role in treating opioid and substance use disorders.
- Knowledge of local resources and support systems for individuals in recovery.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- High level of cultural competence and sensitivity to the diverse backgrounds of incarcerated individuals.
- NCCPSS is required
- Preferred:
- Experience working in a correctional facility or similar institutional environment.
- Previous experience in a peer support role, especially related to substance use disorders.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to physically navigate a correctional facility.
- Ability to work in a secure, sometimes challenging environment.
- Ability to remain calm in stressful or volatile situations.
Working Conditions:
- This position will require working inside a jail facility where physical and environmental risks may be present.
- Availability to work varying shifts, including evenings, weekends, or holidays as needed.