Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) Independent Contractor/Freelance NAMI DuPage Wheaton, IL Job Details Contract $21 - $25 an hour 1 day ago Qualifications Teamwork Presentation software Interpersonal skills Collaboration Experience working with trauma survivors Certified Recovery Specialist Recovery peer support Organizational skills Peer support advocacy Associate's degree

Full Job Description About NAMI DuPage:

For more than 40 years, NAMI DuPage has been the county's leading nonprofit organization providing free mental health support, education, advocacy, and peer-led services. Since 2015, NAMI DuPage has successfully operated one of Illinois' first peer-led Living Room Programs, providing a welcoming, recovery-oriented alternative to emergency departments for adults experiencing emotional distress. With support from the Illinois Department of Human Services, NAMI DuPage is expanding the Living Room to provide 24-hour, 365-day-a-year peer-led crisis support.

Position Summary:

NAMI DuPage is seeking Certified Recovery Support Specialists (CRSS) to join our team as independent contractor/freelancers providing shift coverage in our 24/7 Living Room Program. Working alongside a Peer Support Specialist, the CRSS provides compassionate, peer-delivered support to adults experiencing emotional distress, mental health crises, or co-occurring challenges. Using lived experience, recovery principles, trauma-informed practices, and person-centered support, the CRSS helps guests identify strengths, build hope, reduce distress, and connect with ongoing community resources. This position is ideal for individuals seeking flexible scheduling while making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

- Directly provide and/or ensure the following: Direct Guest Support Welcome guests in a compassionate and nonjudgmental manner. Build trusting relationships through lived experience. Provide one-on-one peer support. Assist guests in identifying strengths, coping skills, and wellness strategies. Support recovery planning. Promote dignity, hope, and self-determination. Crisis Support & Stabilization Provide emotional support during times of crisis. Provide crisis phone support as appropriate. Utilize trauma-informed de-escalation techniques. Collaborate with CRC staff, emergency responders, or mental health professionals when appropriate. Support warm handoffs to community providers and resources. Recovery Planning & Resources Connect guests with community resources. Provide information regarding NAMI DuPage programs and services. Encourage ongoing recovery supports. Promote self-advocacy. Documentation Complete timely and accurate documentation. Document peer support interventions, referrals, and guest outcomes. Assist with required data collection. Maintain HIPAA and confidentiality standards. Collaboration Collaborate with Peer Support Specialists and Living Room staff. Participate in shift handoffs. Attend required trainings. Professional Responsibilities Maintain an active Illinois CRSS credential. Practice recovery-oriented, trauma-informed, and person-centered care. Complete required trainings. Practice ethical peer support. Demonstrate professionalism and reliability while accepting contracted shifts. Other Duties Carry out other responsibilities as assigned to meet program needs and organizational goals Because the Living Room Program operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, all staff are expected to demonstrate flexibility to support operational needs, training requirements, and occasional schedule adjustments. Required Qualifications and Necessary Skills

• Current Illinois CRSS credential - a must!
• Lived experience with mental health recovery.
• Commitment to recovery-oriented, trauma-informed care.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm during crises.
• Reliable transportation.
• Minimum of two years' experience in behavioral health, peer support, recovery services, crisis services, or related human services.
• Commitment to recovery-oriented, trauma-informed, and person-centered care.
• Ability to relate effectively with individuals, community members, and staff of diverse backgrounds, personalities, and communication styles.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Must possess good problem-solving skills, be resourceful, and take initiative when needed
• Strong customer service skills.
• Excellent computer skills including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, and other databases as required.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Must be flexible and willing to support a non-profit by participating in fundraising events and other outreach activities.
• Ability to summarize and extrapolate key information from meetings and conversations to develop new forms and documents.
• Team player and collaborator.

Preferred Associate's degree or equivalent experience in behavioral health, healthcare, human services, nonprofit programs, or a related field. Experience with crisis response or peer-run programs.

Pay:

$21.00 - $25.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person