Peer Recovery Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:     

Coordinates and assists in the facilitation of driven recovery support activities, individual and group related education for registered clients/families and provides special assistance as needed. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Serves as role model to provide mentorship, guidance, outreach and a support system for individuals and families in substance abuse recovery program;
2. Assists with overall peer recovery program design, development and implementation;
3. Assists in the coordination and execution of peer recovery outreach alternative activities per TDSHS grant/program requirements and curricula design;
4. Assist clients with the provision of outreach and follow-up services for substance abuse recovery support and treatment;
5. Utilizes motivational interviewing techniques to empower clients to support engagement in treatment and navigation through the recovery process;
6. Assist clients to develop empowerment skills and to combat stigma through self-advocacy;
7. Refers to community programs or agencies to meet the needs of client and family; 
8. Informs clients about traditional and natural support systems and how to use these in the recovery process;  
9. Participates in staff meetings and case consultations;
10. Provides transportation to the clients as necessary to access recovery support systems;
11. Assist clients to collaborate with treatment team to determine steps needed in order to achieve goals and self-directed recovery;
12. Assist in locating and joining self-help recovery groups;
13. Assist clients with recovery based services to support client in their daily living needs;
14. Maintains daily records for program participants per state, federal and tribal guidelines;
15. Assist with program outreach activities;
16. Supports clients in developing relapse prevention strategies, identifying triggers, and strengthening coping skills to maintain recovery goals;
17. Completes timely and accurate documentation of services, case notes, referrals, transportation logs, outreach activities, and recovery support services in accordance with the ASAP program; 
18. Performs other position-related duties as assigned and required. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

High School Diploma or its equivalent (GED); One year experience working or volunteering in the substance abuse field; Texas State designated as Peer Recovery Coach; Must be able attain National Peer Recovery Support Specialist Certification within one year of employment; Minimum two years of attested recovery from lived experience in substance abuse and/or co-occurring mental health disorders;  Bilingual–English/Spanish; must have a valid Texas Driver’s license and be insurable; Must be able to successfully pass a post-offer drug screen and criminal background investigation.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

Knowledge of community health issues and services; Knowledge and understanding of chemical dependency, mental health and 12 step programs; Excellent report-writing skills and proficient in MS Office applications; Excellent organizational and time management skills; Ability to be self-directed and flexible to meet the needs and clients and management; Effective interpersonal and engagement skills; Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of client information in accordance with HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, tribal, state, and federal regulations; Ability to develop and conduct presentations; Ability to prioritize and coordinate activities effectively; Knowledge of Native American cultural issues; Ability to travel for training and program activities; Overnight travel may be required; Ability to be on-call as needed; Ability to work non-traditional hours and work in a wide range of environmental and climate settings; Ability to function autonomously and utilize effective analytical and problem solving skills.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

While performing the essential functions of this position, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, talk, and hear. Ability to go up and down flights of steps. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms. Works indoors and outdoors in adverse weather conditions; The employee is occasionally required to lift up to 40 pounds. The vision requirements include: Close vision, peripheral vision and ability to adjust focus.

This description is a summary of principle responsibilities and is not intended to include all duties which may be assigned.