PURPOSE:

To Provide trauma-sensitive peer-to-peer support within the context of the peer Respite. Supports offered will include advocacy, providing information and opportunities to connect to local resources, support around housing and benefits, one-on-one mutual support and group support, as well as managing the peer support warm line if needed.

Respite Peer Support Specialist Duties and Responsibilities:

• Share personal experience, encourage mental health wellness and recovery, and validate different pathways of recovery.
• Assist in connection with mental health services, community resources, and other services as needed.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care, theories, principles, and practices
• Provide telephone support to peers in the community through the 24-hour peer warm line.
• Help maintain a clean, safe, and secure environment. Cleaning duties as assigned.
• Manage downtime with guests focusing on wellness and recovery activities.
• Work cooperatively with the Respite team and maintain clear, honest, and respectful communication with team members.
• Offer peer-to-peer support to guests during all phases of their stay (pre-arrival, arrival, a time during guests' stay, departure/discharge plan, after-care planning)
• Work as a part of a team to create a bed-and-breakfast-like and healing physical environment.
• Belief in the recovery potential of all people with MH/SA challenges and committed to the philosophy of peer support.
• Ability to recognize the difference between and mental health crisis, in which unconditional support is effective, and a mental health emergency, requiring 911, mobile crisis, and/or other supports.
• Ability to self-reflect, receive feedback, guidance, training, and mentoring to grow in your skills and knowledge
• Documentation, tracking, and reporting as required
• All other duties as assigned by CEO, Executive team ,and Leadership team.

Position Specifications and/or Education:

• Personal history of MH/SA recovery and lived experience in seeking and receiving crisis-based support.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care, theories, principles, and practices
• Ability to manage time, and complete tasks accordingly with limited direct supervision.
• Must possess good communication skills both oral and written.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including active and reflective listening skills and remaining non-judgmental.
• Must be self-motivated and possess the ability to work independently as well as within a team.
• Effective conflict resolution skills
• Knowledge of a variety of computer software applications in word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation software.
• Current NC Certified Peer Support Specialist or the ability to obtain certification within 90 days of employment.
• Valid NC Driver’s License .
• High School Diploma/GED.
• Basic knowledge of community support services/resources.
• Skilled in maintaining calm and empathy with guests experiencing emotional distress without trying to minimize their experience