Peer Support Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY: The Forensic Peer Specialist is responsible for providing support and guidance, while mentoring clients who have been released from prison or jail, some with severe and persistent mental illness in a community setting.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

· Assists individuals with developing their individual service plans.

· Shares personal recovery stories and describes personal experiences to inspire and support individuals throughout the recovery process, as appropriate.

· Assists individuals with the development of mental health advanced preferences.

· Supports individuals with problem solving related to their reintegration into the community.

· Advises and informs individuals on community resources, including housing, employment, education, transportation, recreation, health, religious/spiritual, and other resources to meet their individual recovery goals.

· Provides individuals with support and guidance recognizing the early signs of crisis, developing crisis plans, and implementing identified coping strategies.

· Assists individuals with developing and maintaining positive personal and social support networks.

· Assists individuals with developing their self-help skills and cultivates their ability to make informed, independent choices.

· Plans and facilitates practical activities for individuals to increase their self-worth and improve their self-concepts.

· Assists in facilitating skills-based groups.

· Attends treatment/recovery team meetings.

· Documents services provided to individuals/groups.

· Acts as an advocate for individuals to facilitate positive changes in their recovery.

· Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with the Judiciary, District Attorneys, Public Defenders, Parole Agents, DSH staff, and local law enforcement officials as needed.