Peer Support Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title : Peer Support Specialist Salary : $16.00-$22.00 Hourly

Position Type : Full Time - Non-Exempt Pay Schedule : Semi-monthly

Location : Houston, 77006 Reports To : Manager of Support Services

Department : Support Services Travel Percentage : 10%

Description : The Residential Peer Support Specialist is someone who has personally dealt with addiction services. In this role, they will offer peer support services, act as a client advocate, and provide clients with both written information and personal insights to aid their recovery from drug and alcohol addiction while seeking treatment at The Women's Home.

The Peer Support Specialist will undertake various tasks to empower clients in reclaiming control over their lives and recovery journey.

They will collaborate within a multi-disciplinary treatment team to recognize, support, evaluate, and address any obstacles clients face in reaching their goals and objectives.

Essential Responsibilities :

• Offer one-on-one peer support services to validate clients' experiences during their residential substance use disorder treatment.
• Lead group sessions to encourage active client participation in their recovery.
• Continuously assess client progress and collaborate with the treatment team to review and update treatment plans as necessary.
• Report any unusual behavior, conflicts, or recovery deviations to the relevant professionals
• Foster personal growth and development for individuals dealing with mental health and substance abuse challenges.
• Share personal recovery experiences and demonstrate effective coping techniques.
• Assist, educate, and support clients in daily living tasks, vocational skills, housing access, financial management, and community transportation.
• Provide side-by-side support, coaching, and encouragement for clients to engage in social and leisure activities during evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Offer training, information, and referrals to clients and interested parties regarding accessing community resources and addressing special needs.
• Monitor clients who may decline active services and pose a potential danger to themselves or others, ensuring appropriate referrals for emergency psychiatric or crisis intervention services as needed.
• Complete all required paperwork, reports, and documentation in an organized manner and within established deadlines.
• Work at all other program locations as needed and available.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed / requested.

Additional Responsibilities :

• Participate in weekly supervision sessions with the Manager of Supportive Services.
• Attend and actively contribute to all scheduled team meetings.
• Engage in continuous professional growth and development.
• Maintain professional conduct consistently.
• Adhere to regular work hours, including some evenings and weekends.
• Provide transportation for clients to outside meetings, appointments, and events to assist with life skills.
• Fulfill other assigned duties as necessary.

Required Qualifications :

• Must have a State Certified Peer Specialist certification or eligible for certification prior to or within six months of being hired (intended for those with lived recovery experience with mental health conditions, substance abuse, or trauma).
• Associate’s degree or equivalent, preferably in social work, psychology, or related field; bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Willing to openly identify as a person in recovery from a substance use disorder and share their recovery journey when appropriate.
• Three to Five years of experience working with individuals affected by substance use disorders and mental illness.
• Proficient in accessing and utilizing mental health and substance use disorder services.
• Strong leadership and advocacy skills with a firm commitment to recovery.
• Valid Texas driver’s license and reliable transportation, including van driving capability and passing a driving test.
• Bilingual in English / Spanish is a plus.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends.

Benefits :

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes :

• Healthcare : Choose from three medical plans, two of which are 100% employer paid. Our plans provide comprehensive coverage to ensure your well-being.
• Retirement : We provide a 401(k) plan with a 4% company match, helping you secure your financial future.
• Paid Time Off : Enjoy 20 days of paid time off (PTO), plus 10 holidays and a floating holiday for flexibility in your time management.
• Wellness Programs : Initiatives to support your physical and mental well-being, ensuring a healthy work-life balance.
• Long Term Disability : We offer 100% employer-paid Long Term Disability coverage, providing financial protection in case of extended absence due to illness or injury.
• Life Insurance : Benefit from a 100% employer-paid life insurance option, ensuring the security of your loved ones.

Professional Development :

At the Women's Home, we are committed to your professional growth and development. We provide ongoing training and learning opportunities to help you excel in your role and advance in your career.

You'll have access to :

• On-the-job training and mentorship.
• Workshops and seminars related to your role.
• Opportunities to participate in industry specific conferences.
• Reimbursement of the cost of role-related organization memberships.

Imagine Your Impact

• Making a Daily Difference : Picture yourself in a role where your work directly impacts the lives of women in need. Every task, every decision, contributes to positive change.
• A Culture of Dignity : Envision a workplace where dignity is not just a word, but a way of life. Here, you'll be respected and honored, and you'll extend that same respect to those we serve.
• Integrity in Action : See yourself upholding the highest ethical standards in all you do, knowing that your integrity is the foundation upon which our organization is built.
• Stewardship with Purpose : Imagine being part of a team that is not only responsible with resources but is driven by the purpose of creating a better future for our clients and our community.
• Holistic Growth : Envisage a career where you're not only growing professionally but also personally. We invest in your development, helping you reach your full potential.

Who We Are :

The Women's Home is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women and building stronger communities. Since 1957, we have been providing vital support and services to women in need.

Our mission is to build communities that strengthen women and support families as they reclaim their stability.

At the Women's Home, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment where every employee can thrive.

We value diversity and believe that our differences make us stronger. Our team is passionate about our mission, and we work collaboratively to make a meaningful impact on the lives of the women we serve.

We believe in the power of every individual to make a difference. When you join our team, you become part of a community dedicated to building whole lives and empowering women to achieve their fullest potential.

Are you ready to imagine a brighter future with us?