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Unity Pathways
Certified Peer Support Specialist
Career Insights for Mental / Behavioral Health Counselor
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Based on Washington data
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What they do
A Mental or Behavioral Health Counselor works with patients to treat mental health problems. Assesses patients and assists with diagnosis, counseling and crisis intervention. Consults with nurses, doctors and psychiatrists. May work with specific populations, such as youth, senior citizens or substance abusers, in group settings, facilities or hospitals.
$44,235 / year median in Washington
+15% projected growth
Job Description
DescriptionPosition Summary The Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) uses lived experience with mental health recovery to provide peer support, encouragement, and recovery-focused programming to residents detained under 90-day and 180-day involuntary civil commitment orders (RCW 71.05). The CPSS is a member of the interdisciplinary treatment team and supports residents in building coping strategies, transition planning, and community reintegration. This is a full-time, 1.0 FTE position. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Utilize lived experience to establish therapeutic rapport with residents, assisting them in developing personal coping strategies. Facilitate daily peer support and recovery-focused groups, documenting attendance and clinical themes in the electronic health record. Assist residents in the development of their individualized transition plans and help map recovery support services available in their local communities. Accompany residents on guided outdoor recreation or community integration activities, maintaining therapeutic boundaries and ensuring environmental safety. Participate in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings and clinical supervision sessions with the Clinical Director, as required for state credentialing. Maintain accurate and timely documentation of peer support services consistent with
WAC 246-341
behavioral health agency standards. Adhere to facility safety, security, and confidentiality protocols appropriate to a locked civil commitment setting. Minimum Qualifications — Education and Experience High school diploma or GED required. Personal lived experience with mental health and/or substance use recovery required. Prior experience providing peer support services in a behavioral health or residential setting preferred. Required Licenses and Certifications Active Washington State Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) credential. Washington State Agency Affiliated Counselor (AAC) registration, or eligibility to obtain one, if required for the assigned scope of practice. Current Basic Life Support (BLS/CPR) and First Aid certification. Clearance of a Washington State Patrol (WSP) background check per chapter 43.43 RCW. Preferred Qualifications Prior experience in an evaluation and treatment (E&T) facility, inpatient psychiatric unit, or similar secure treatment environment. Bilingual (Spanish or another language relevant to the served population) is a plus. Physical Requirements and Work Environment Ability to stand, walk, and accompany residents on facility and community-based activities for extended periods; may involve exposure to unpredictable or aggressive behavior; requires availability for a schedule staggered to help ensure daily peer support coverage in a 24/7 secure treatment facility.Pay:
$19.00 - $21.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per weekBenefits:
401(k) Dental insurance Flexible spending account Life insurance Parental leave Retirement plan Vision insuranceWork Location:
In personBenefits
- 401(k) Plans
- Other Retirement and Savings
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance