MCRT Peer Specialist

POSITION TITLE: Mobile Crisis Response Peer Specialist

EFFECTIVE DATE: 2023

PROGRAM: Crisis Response Services

REPORTS TO: Director of Crisis Response Services

FACILITY: Bartow Crisis Stabilization Unit

CITY: Lakeland / Bartow

JOB STATUS: Full Time

FLSA: Non Exempt

Job Summary: The Mobile Crisis Response Peer Specialist provides peer mentoring and support for individuals who have been evaluated by the Mobile Crisis Response Team as a result of an emotional crisis situation. They assist individuals in navigating the mental health services system and in achieving resiliency and recovery as defined by the person in crisis. The MCRT Peer Specialist will promote crisis resolution and support to individuals in Polk, Highlands and Hardee Counties. Working in partnership with MCRT Crisis Counselors, the MCRT Peer Specialist facilitates continuity of treatment for individuals through follow up contact to assist with connection to services post-crisis.

General Expectations:

In the performance of their respective task and duties, all employees are expected to conform to the following:

a. Fully understand and consistently exhibit all of Peace River Center's Core Values, while fostering the same with all direct reports.

b. Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.

c. Interact professionally with other employees, customer and vendors.

d. Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.

e. Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.

Essential Duties/Requirements/Activities:

• Assist in answering crisis line telephones.

• Review crisis action plan with individuals which may include connection to additional services based on the individual's needs

• Facilitate linkage to identified services and serve as a point of contact, advocate, and informational resource for the individual

• Conduct follow-up assessments/contacts and re-evaluate crisis plan as necessary

• Provide practical help and supports, advocacy, coordination, side-by-side individualized support, problem solving, direct assistance to aide individuals in navigating the mental health services system and in achieving resiliency and recovery.

• Concisely and correctly complete clinical documentation and related paperwork in a timely and professional manner.

• Good leadership skills

• Good written and verbal communication skills

• Good interpersonal skills with peers and other agencies/organizations

• Good organizational skills and ability to handle multiple tasks

• Creative management and knowledge of community resources

• Ability to keep information confidential

• Ability to work with minimal supervision

• Ability to travel to multiple sites

• Provide timely, accurate, completion of required documents

Qualifications:

Education:

High School diploma or GED required.

Experience:

Has received or is currently receiving mental health service for symptoms of mental illness

Certifications:

Must have received certification from the State of Florida as a Certified Peer Specialist or be willing to obtain that state certification

Training:

Complete specific training as required in FS 65-E5.

Approval of Abuse Registry and Law Enforcement check.

20 hours professional enhancement training annually including all PRC required.

Current Driver's License

Must have self-transportation that is reliable

Transportation:

Minimum 21 years of age

Drive personal vehicle and have own reliable transportation

Ability to pass Florida DMV license check

Must maintain 50/100 insurance requirements for Peace River Center designated patient drivers

Must be able to pass the DOT physical

Must be able to pass the Peace River Center driving test administered by Transportation Manager

Work Environment:

The work environment is fast-paced and consists of exposure to physical conditions typical of a normal office environment. The populations cared for will include patients who are confused, delusional, irrational, agitated, or uncooperative. Most of the job is performed while sitting, although the work may require occasional standing or walking and/or the lifting and carrying of small objects. A small amount of travel may be required for meetings etc. to another PRC location.

EEO Statement

One of the greatest assets of the PRC is the ethnic, cultural, and social diversity of its employees. PRC takes great pride in the diversity and values and respect of all its employees, regardless of race, color, sex, marital status religion, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, age, disability, gender identification, or sexual orientation.