What are the responsibilities and job description for the Peer Support Specialist position at White Grape Community Services?
Required:
Job Summary:
White Grape Community Services is seeking a compassionate, dedicated, and experienced Peer Support Specialist to join our team. The Peer Support Specialist will provide one-on-one and group support to individuals experiencing mental health challenges, using their lived experience to empower others in their recovery journey. This role will focus on promoting mental wellness, self-advocacy, and recovery-oriented services through peer-based support. **MUST HAVE Oregon Peer Support Specialist Certification BEFORE APPLYING**
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide emotional support, mentorship, and guidance based on personal lived experience with mental health challenges.
- Assist clients in identifying their goals for recovery and help them develop a plan to achieve those goals.
- Conduct individual and group peer support sessions, offering encouragement, empathy, and shared experiences.
- Share personal stories of recovery to help clients understand the process of mental health recovery.
- Offer clients tools and resources for managing mental health, such as self-care strategies, coping skills, and problem-solving techniques.
Client Engagement and Empowerment:
- Build trusting, respectful relationships with clients by maintaining a non-judgmental and supportive presence.
- Encourage clients to actively participate in their recovery process and empower them to make their own decisions.
- Assist clients in navigating mental health services, including connecting them to necessary resources, services, and community programs.
Collaboration and Teamwork:
- Collaborate with case managers, therapists, and other healthcare providers to create holistic care plans.
- Attend team meetings to provide feedback on client progress and identify any areas of concern.
- Participate in ongoing training and professional development to maintain skills and knowledge of recovery-oriented practices.
- Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintain accurate and confidential records of interactions with clients, including progress notes and activity logs.
- Adhere to all organizational policies and guidelines regarding documentation and confidentiality.
- Report any concerns regarding client safety or well-being to the appropriate supervisor or healthcare provider.
Community Outreach and Advocacy:
- Act as a liaison to community organizations and services, advocating for clients’ needs and connecting them to available resources.
- Promote the importance of mental health awareness and recovery in the community, reducing stigma and supporting inclusivity.
Qualifications:
- Oregon Peer Support Specialist Certification **MUST HAVE BEFORE APPLYING**
- Lived experience with mental health challenges and a commitment to recovery.
- Minimum of high school diploma or GED.
- Ability to maintain boundaries while building supportive, empathetic relationships.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including active listening.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Understanding of and respect for confidentiality and ethical guidelines in mental health and peer support.
- Basic computer skills, including knowledge of Microsoft Office and electronic health record systems.
Preferred:
- Previous experience in peer support, mental health services, or a related field.
- Familiarity with local mental health resources and services in Oregon.
- Knowledge of recovery-based principles and practices.
- Bilingual abilities (Spanish, Russian, or other languages) are a plus.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to engage in long periods of sitting, standing, or walking, as required.
- Ability to work in an office environment, client homes, or community settings.
Benefits:
- Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
- Supportive work environment that values diversity and inclusion.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their resume Whitegrapeofficemanager@gmail.com
White Grape Community Services is an equal-opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We encourage applications from individuals with lived experiences, people of color, veterans, and those from diverse communities.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Contract
Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour
Expected hours: 20 – 40 per week
Schedule:
- 4 hour shift
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Evening shift
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20 - $22