Benefits:

Work Cellphone and Laptop

Life Insurance Policy

Paid Mileage

Reimbursement Account

Flexible Spending Account

Flexible schedule

Paid time off

Position Summary:

A Peer Specialist utilizes an individual’s strengths by motivating and encouraging them toward self-sufficiency goals. They are responsible for linking participants to appropriate treatment and community resources. A Recovery Coach uses their recovery story to promote and motivate someone toward a healthy lifestyle.

Qualifications:

Pass a background check and Staff Exclusion List

A valid driver’s license with reliable transportation (Travel between Jamestown and Dunkirk)

High School Diploma (or equivalent)

Academy of Peer Services certification required

Must identify as a person who has received mental health/substance abuse service in the past.

Good communication & interpersonal skills

Be able to work independently.

Flexible work schedule

Fluency in Spanish and English: Must be bilingual

Responsibilities:

· Caseload management

· Point person for translation needs

· Conducting intakes and outreach

· Maintain all required paperwork and documentation within the stated parameters

· Basic computer literacy, (email, word processor, using a calendar)

· Networking, collaborating, and referring to other community agencies and resources

· Maintain certifications and training and required staff meetings

· Maintain appropriate boundaries as set forth by certification agencies

· Advise and support participants in various settings such as medical appointments, mental health appointments, public resource appointments, etc.

· Participate or facilitate in peer groups

About the MHA:

Mental Health Association in Chautauqua County is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization of individuals who have survived struggles of mental health or addiction and continue to walk the path of recovery. These peers offer a unique perspective to share their experience and knowledge to help others navigate community services and access treatment and basic life needs by providing support through a complicated system. All of our coaches are New York State Certified Peer Specialists through the Academy of Peer Services and the NY Office of Mental Health. They are also trained as Recovery Coaches in the Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR) Model in collaboration with Friends of Recovery New York (FOR-NY) and NYS Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS).

With training and certification in Peer Services, we offer an understanding ear and a guiding hand to the resources and opportunities for growth in our community.