Peer Support Specialist

Summary: The Peer Support Specialist is responsible for supporting clients in the Outpatient and Community Wellness Center to achieve their goals for crisis resolution and overall well-being while living in the community. Peer Staff offers additional support, including advocacy and connections to local resources, to clients involved in or attending El Hogar’s programs. Working beyond the office, responsibilities may take Peers to various settings like clients' homes, jails, psychiatric hospitals, or other locations to engage or re-engage individuals in mental health services and assist in their transition. All services provided will align with the principles of the Psychosocial Rehabilitation Model and Strengths Based Model. As part of a multi-system team, Peers contribute to recovery-based & Strength -based services, such as skills training, group facilitation, resource linkage, and crisis intervention. Supports and teaches recovery principals and use of recovery tools

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
Peer Support:
• Engage with clients in a supportive and empathetic manner, drawing on personal lived experiences to build rapport.
• Foster a non-judgmental and inclusive environment that encourages open communication.
Individualized Assistance:
• Collaborate with clients to identify personal goals and develop recovery plans.
• Assist in developing coping strategies and problem-solving techniques.
Caseload Management:
• Support a caseload of clients, providing ongoing individualized assistance in office and in the field.
• Maintain regular contact with assigned clients and adjust support strategies as needed.
Advocacy:
• Advocate for clients' rights and needs within the mental health system.
• Empower individuals to self-advocate and navigate available resources.
Group Facilitation:
• Lead or co-facilitate support groups and psycho-educational sessions.
• Share personal experiences to enhance group discussions and create a sense of community.
Collaboration:
• Able to work independently and with a multi-disciplinary team of professionals, including med providers, mental health clinicians, peers, care coordinators, and other members, to discuss/develop/facilitate integrated care plans for clients.
• Contribute insights and collaborate with team members to ensure comprehensive and integrated support for clients.
• Collaborate with external service providers to ensure holistic support for clients.
• Engage in regular team meetings and share expertise to enhance the overall effectiveness of the team in achieving common goals.
• Collaborate with team members to maintain a seamless and supportive experience for individuals utilizing the Community Wellness Center.
Documentation and Reporting:
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation and confidential records of interactions with clients within the Electronic Health Record system, per El Hogar and Sacramento County regulatory documentation policies & procedures.
• Provide regular updates and reports to the clinical team on clients' progress and challenges.
Professional Development:
• Pursue and complete required training for Certified Peer Support Specialist (if applicable).
• Stay informed about current trends, best practices, and advancements in the field of mental health.
• Actively engage in training sessions, workshops, and conferences to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Adhere to and uphold the policies and procedures of El Hogar Community Services Inc.
• Ensure the protection and privacy of all Protected Health Information (PHI) by following all Agency policies and procedures.
Community Wellness Center Support:
• Provide coverage and support within the Community Wellness Center.
• Ensure continuity of services and a welcoming environment for clients and guests while in the Community Wellness Center.
• Facilitate linkages and connections to community resources that enhance the well-being of individuals.
• Contribute to maintaining a clean and inviting environment within the Community Wellness Center, ensuring a conducive space for wellness activities.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Education and Experience:
• High school diploma or equivalent (required); additional education or training in mental health is a plus.
• Must have personal lived experience related to mental health or personal lived experience as the primary caretaker of an adult, youth, or child with complex behavioral health needs (required)

For Certified Peers:
• Certification as a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist in accordance with state requirements.(Must be current and in good standing)
• Previous experience working in a mental health setting (preferred).

For Non-Certified Peers:
• Demonstrated commitment to personal recovery and a passion for supporting others.