Certified Peer Specialist position provides a full range of direct services to program participants. This position will work with other facilities and outside agencies when issues arise, to mediate and resolve problems with participants. This will require administrative tasks in reviewing and maintaining a caseload. Certified Peer Specialist also has a keen focus on connecting participants to supportive services and community resources, including but not limited to treatment, housing, employment, health and mental health services amongst others. Principal duties are performed in the field and in a general office environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide direct services and resources as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Conduct eligibility assessments and intakes according to grant requirements.
• Provide culturally appropriate advocacy, case management, and crisis services for a case load of participants in recovery from substance abuse disorders.
• Utilize needs assessments, service plans, and motivational interviewing to empower and motivate participants towards achieving goals related to treatment, housing, childcare, employment, benefits, legal services, and other needs.
• Monitor participants for progress.
• Provide education on budgeting techniques, employment preparation, and other life skills to participants individually or in a group setting as assigned.
• Link participants to other services such as job training, credit counseling, or similar services in a manner that promotes engagement.
• Assist participants in locating and determining appropriateness of housing options.
• Provide safety planning and supportive peer counseling.
• Act as an advocate for participants across other systems such as Department of Veteran Affairs, housing, public benefits, etc.
• Handle case assignments, draft safety plans, review cases, complete required documentation, progress notes, follow-ups, and discharges in PA WITS System in an accurate and timely manner.
• Provide direct participant services: intakes, individual counseling, case management, assessments, advocacy, accompaniment, and emergency transportation (using program vehicle).
• Facilitate support groups for participants.
• Documents necessary information as required within the program in a timely manner. Maintain accurate data systems.
• Demonstrates an understanding of confidentiality policies.
• Evaluate and research resources for quality and fit with meeting participant needs.
• Maintain good working relationships with support networks and resource providers.
• Facilitate resident meetings and support groups.
• Maintain and compile participant records, including consents, ID, individual case files, and service statistics in an accurate and timely manner.
• Participate in regular staff meetings.
• Participate in on-going cross training and appropriate staff development to perform duties of the program as needed.

 EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum High School diploma or equivalent. Postsecondary education in behavioral sciences, social services, psychology, or another related field is preferred; equivalent work experience acceptable in lieu of degree.
• PA Cert Board CPS Certification required. Proof of certification required. May take training within 90 days after hire if needed;
• Veteran status required
• Valid driver's license
• Three (3) years of experience working with people with substance use disorders or related field in nonprofit sector, social service, or direct services; lived mental health/substance use
• Excellent written and oral English communication skills. Ability to read English. Bilingual Spanish desirable.
• Excellent time management skills. Ability to plan, prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Ability to assist participants with resolving problems and mediate issues when needed.
• Ability to organize and manage files, schedules, dates, and information.
• Excellent accuracy in documentation, data entry and reporting.
• Ability to document notes and write legibly.
• Familiarity with the philosophy of disease model, social-learning model, and socio-cultural models of addiction.
• Understanding of substance use disorders, addiction, especially in context to race, class, gender, and social identity.
• Understanding of confidentiality and good Samaritan law.
• Working knowledge of community resources in Philadelphia.
• Demonstrated commitment to open, direct, and non-violent communication.
• Ability to de-escalate crisis situations and make decisions under pressure.
• Basic reporting skills including data entry, Outlook, Excel, and Word processing.
• Ability to be self-directed and work independently without supervision. Able to work on a team, collaboratively, when necessary.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries with participants, volunteers, and staff.
• Ability to be empathetic and supportive when working with participants.