Certified Peer Support Specialist

Job Overview The Peer Support Specialist plays a key role in helping individuals navigate their personal recovery journeys through one-on-one support, group facilitation, and wellness coaching. This position requires an individual with lived experience who is passionate about helping others and has the skills to guide and empower people in recovery. The Peer Support Specialist works with individuals recovering from mental health, substance use, or problem gambling challenges, as well as family members affected by these experiences. Key Responsibilities Peer Support and Mentorship Provide individual and group peer support services. Offer guidance, encouragement, and hope based on personal recovery experience. Foster self-advocacy, empowerment, and resilience among participants. Wellness Coaching Support individuals in identifying, setting, and achieving personal wellness and recovery goals. Utilize self-directed recovery tools and evidence-informed strategies to promote overall well-being. Resource Navigation Connect individuals with community resources, treatment options, and support services. Assist participants in accessing and navigating systems of care and recovery supports. Education and Advocacy Provide education related to mental health, substance use, problem gambling, and recovery. Advocate for the needs, preferences, and rights of individuals and families in recovery. Cultural Competency and Responsiveness Ensure services are delivered in a culturally responsive and inclusive manner. Demonstrate sensitivity to diverse backgrounds, values, identities, and lived experiences. Collaboration with Treatment Teams Work collaboratively with clinicians, case managers, skills trainers, and other healthcare professionals. Participate in team meetings and coordinate services to support client success. Documentation and Reporting Complete accurate, timely, and professional documentation of services provided. Maintain records in accordance with organizational policies and applicable state regulations. Required Qualifications Must be self-identified as: An individual who is currently or formerly receiving mental health, substance use, or problem gambling services; or A parent or caregiver of a child affected by mental health, substance use, or behavioral health challenges. Recovery Experience Self-identifies as being in recovery from substance use disorder, problem gambling, or mental health challenges. Certification Requirements Must meet certification standards outlined in

OAR 410-180-0300

through 410-180-0380 for Peer Support Specialists. Must complete an Authority-approved 80-hour training program specific to the peer support role. Must complete Authority-approved oral health training. Must satisfy all certification and registry requirements established by the Oregon Health Authority. Applicants holding national or out-of-state certifications in good standing may qualify for reciprocity or equivalent credit, as determined by the Authority. Communication Skills Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills. Ability to actively listen, provide clear guidance, and offer emotional support. Cultural Competency Demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Resiliency and Self-Management Ability to maintain personal wellness and recovery while supporting others in their recovery journey. Teamwork Ability to collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary treatment team. Ethical Standards Commitment to maintaining confidentiality, professional boundaries, and ethical conduct. Respect for client autonomy and self-determination. Preferred Qualifications Experience facilitating recovery, wellness, or support groups. Familiarity with local mental health, substance use, and community-based resources. Previous experience working in behavioral health or recovery-oriented settings. Physical Demands Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods. Ability to lift up to 25 pounds. Regular use of computers, phones, and other office equipment. Frequent travel within the community for outreach, meetings, and client support activities.

Pay:

$30.00 - $40.00 per hour

Benefits:

Flexible schedule Health insurance Mileage reimbursement Vision insurance Application Question(s): Do you possess a valid driver's license, maintain a clean driving record, and have reliable transportation?

License/Certification:

Oregon THW Peer Support Registry Number (Required)

Work Location:

In person