Youth Peer Specialist (Part-Time)

The Youth Peer Specialist will participate in one-on-one meetings and treatment team meetings to discuss ideas, difficulties, and expectations. They will provide social interaction to develop social and recreational skills and help participants develop insight into their mental illness. The specialist will promote recovery-oriented skills, establish linkages to community resources, and assist participants in developing empowerment skills.

What You Will Do

The primary job functions include participating in treatment team meetings, providing social interaction, promoting recovery-oriented skills, establishing linkages to community resources, and assisting participants in developing empowerment skills. The specialist will also plan and conduct peer support groups, document clinical records, and participate in staff meetings.

Why It Might Be a Fit

The ideal candidate will be a current or former recipient of mental health services with a DSM-5 diagnosis, able to identify as a participant of mental health services and speak openly regarding personal diagnosis and treatment. They will have a valid driver's license, a good driving record, reliable transportation, and verifiable vehicle liability insurance. The candidate will also be able to attend DMH-approved Peer Specialist training for certification and demonstrate experience with and knowledge of the Alabama public mental health system.

Requirements

• High school diploma or its equivalent
• Current or former recipient of mental health services with a DSM-5 diagnosis
• Ability to identify as a participant of mental health services and speak openly regarding personal diagnosis and treatment
• Valid driver's license
• Good driving record
• Reliable transportation
• Verifiable vehicle liability insurance
• Ability to attend DMH-approved Peer Specialist training for certification
• Experience with and knowledge of the Alabama public mental health system
• Knowledge of youth/young adult specific competencies
• Knowledge of psychiatric disorders in the youth/young adult population
• Knowledge of cultural diversity
• Knowledge of behavior management, crisis intervention, and interventions common to acute psychotic participants
• Knowledge of a recovery-oriented treatment approach
• Ability to communicate effectively with a multi-disciplinary team
• Ability to connect to youth/young adults and share skills and knowledge with others