Peer Support Specialist

Job Description ResponsibilitiesSelf-identified as in recovery with the ability to demonstrate sobriety under non-residential, independent living conditions in the immediate past two years.Monitor client’s progress in rehabilitative services, focusing on improving, maintaining and / or restoring client functioning.Accompany clients into the community to improve access to resources and / or attend appointments.Ability to gather and assess patient / client information to evaluate needs.Provide skilled / trauma informed crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques.Maintain timely, complete, and legible clinical records (knowledge of Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health paperwork is highly preferred ).Work in a multidisciplinary treatment team that includes Care Coordinators, fellow Peer Support Specialists, Clinicians, and therapists to assist clients in achieving the best possible clinical outcomes.Knowledge / Experience in Motivational Interviewing a plus!Required SkillsDemonstrated Experience / knowledge related to working in the mental health field.Compassion for clients and dedicated to making a difference.Comfortable working with a diverse population, including clients with severe and persistent mental illnesses.Strong written and oral communication skills.Comfort working with clients referred from the criminal justice system.Ability to work independently in a fast paced environment both in the office and in the community.Ability to perform after hours on-call responsibilities.Ability to maintain productivity and documentation standards.Ability to manage time efficiently, organize and prioritize tasks, demonstrate sound judgment, give attention to detail, be flexible, self-driven and motivated.Possess excellent organization skills, time management, ability to multi-task and demonstrate initiative and follow through.Be detail oriented, able to set priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain a professional attitude, conduct and appearance at all times.Working knowledge of community resources as they relate to mental health disorders and substance abuse, as well as experience working with a multidisciplinary treatment team.The ability to interact and support staff and clients with diverse cultural, ethnic and economic backgrounds.Proficient in basic office software including Word, Excel, Outlook, HMIS, and other related social services data collection programs, with the ability to write business correspondence and present information in one-on-one and small group settings.EducationAssociate’s Degree in Human Services-related field, and / or a valid CRM / PSS certification, OR ability to obtain certification within 6 months.Desire to work with adults (18 years and older) with a serious, high-acuity mental illness.Competency in computer use, keyboarding, and MS Office products.Current CPR and First Aid Certification (or obtain within 6 months).Company DescriptionNew Directions for Veterans (NDVets) is staffed by a dedicated team of professionals who thrive in a rapidly growing, visionary organization. We seek individuals who can use their skills and commitment to help us in our mission to improve the lives of veterans. As a member of our team, you will reap benefits far beyond a paycheck.#J-18808-Ljbffr