Peer Supporter

Job Summary/Basic Functions:
Certified Peer Support Specialists use their lived experience with mental health and/or substance use disorder recovery to support individuals on their recovery journeys. They provide hope-based support, model recovery, assist with goal-setting, connect individuals to community resources, and collaborate with multidisciplinary care teams. Their work emphasizes empowerment, self-advocacy, and the promotion of recovery-oriented, trauma-informed practices in accordance with OAC 5122-29-15.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Peer-Based Support and Recovery Coaching (OAC 5122-29-15(D)(3))
Offer emotional and motivational support based on shared lived experience with recovery
Serve as a role model demonstrating healthy coping skills and recovery behaviors
Encourage hope through positive, strength-based interactions
Help individuals develop and follow personalized recovery plans (updated at 30, 60, 90 day intervals)
Support goal-setting related to recovery, employment, housing, relationships, and wellness
2. Navigation and Resource Coordination (OAC 5122-29-15(D)(4)(7)(9))
Assist individuals in accessing treatment programs, support groups, housing, and employment services
Teach skills to effectively navigate the healthcare delivery system
Connect individuals to community resources using Community Resource/Partnership Guide
Assist with developing natural support systems in the community
Support development of life skills such as budgeting and resource connection
3. Advocacy and Empowerment (OAC 5122-29-15(D)(2)(14))
Advocate for individuals in interactions with healthcare providers, treatment centers, and service systems
Support individuals in achieving personal independence as identified by the individual
Assist in development of empowerment skills through self-advocacy
Promote activities that mitigate discrimination and inspire hope
4. Crisis Support (Non-Clinical) (OAC 5122-29-15(D)(11))
Provide immediate support and encouragement during difficult moments
Help individuals create and implement safety and crisis plans
Coordinate with licensed clinical staff for crisis situations requiring higher level of care
Maintain
appropriate boundaries recognizing scope of practice limitations
5. Group Facilitation (OAC 5122-29-15(D)(8)(F))
Co-facilitate or lead peer support groups addressing recovery topics
Facilitate groups on relapse prevention, coping strategies, mutual support, and wellness
Provide processes that assist individuals in eliminating barriers to recovery, employment, education, or housing
Ensure confidentiality and create safe, supportive group environments
6. Documentation and Compliance (OAC 5122-29-15.1)
Maintain accurate, confidential records in accordance with 42 CFR Part 2 and HIPAA
Complete needs assessments at initial meeting and 30, 60, 90-day intervals
Document personal recovery plan development and updates
Report progress and challenges to supervisor as appropriate
Maintain timely documentation per agency policies
7. Collaboration and Teamwork (OAC 5122-29-15(D)(13))
Participate in multidisciplinary treatment team meetings
Attend weekly supervision meetings with Certified Peer Specialist Supervisor
Coordinate care with clinicians, case managers, social workers, and family (with authorization)
Present cases in treatment team meetings for review and direction
8. Education, Outreach, and Stigma Reduction (OAC 5122-29-15(D)(12))
Educate individuals and community about recovery and peer support services
Conduct community outreach to promote peer recovery services
Reduce stigma by sharing personal recovery story in appropriate settings
Develop community partnerships for referral and consultation
9. Professional Development (OAC 5122-29-15.1(D))
Attend required trainings to maintain Ohio Certified Peer Supporter certification
Complete continuing education requirements as mandated by certification board
Participate in trauma-informed care and cultural diversity training
Stay informed about best practices in recovery-oriented services
Required Certifications and Licenses:
Active Ohio Certified Peer Supporter (CPS) certification required (per OAC 5122-29-15.1)
Must be free from disqualifying offenses per OAC 5122-29-15.1(I)
Valid Ohio driver's license with proof of auto insurance at state minimum
Skills and Competencies:
Ability to form professional, therapeutic relationships with individuals and staff
Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills
Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality per 42 CFR Part 2 and HIPAA
Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and electronic health records

Employment type
Full-Time

Work arrangement
No