The IMPACT Team (Inspiring Motivation through Peer Advocacy, Compassion, and Teamwork) Peer Recovery Specialist (PRS) provides non-clinical, person-centered recovery support services to individuals experiencing substance use and/or mental health challenges. As someone with lived experience in recovery, the PRS serves as a mentor, advocate, and motivator, helping participants navigate their recovery journey while fostering hope and empowerment. This role is critical in creating a supportive community that promotes resilience, engagement, and sustained recovery.
Key Responsibilities:
● Empower individuals in recovery by offering personalized, one-on-one mentorship and peer support.
● Facilitate peer-driven support groups and coordinate engaging recovery-focused activities that inspire and connect participants.
● Collaborate with individuals to create customized recovery, wellness, and resiliency plans that are built on their goals, strategies, and support needs.
● Champion self-advocacy and independence, fostering a culture of choice and autonomy in every recovery journey.
● Act as a bridge between participants and vital community resources like healthcare, housing, and employment opportunities, ensuring they access what they need.
● Model healthy coping mechanisms and lifestyle changes, encouraging a balanced and sustainable approach to recovery.
● Support program activities both within the center and throughout the community, with occasional transportation responsibilities using a 15-passenger van or facility vehicle.
● Ensure precision in documentation for all peer services provided, ensuring compliance with Medicaid billing requirements.
● Manage a caseload of up to 15 individuals, offering consistent peer support throughout their recovery journey.
● Commit to continuous learning through ongoing training, supervision, and professional development.
● Collaborate seamlessly with clinical teams, case managers, and service providers to ensure a holistic, well-rounded approach to recovery.
● Represent the program at conferences and events, building relationships and partnerships with community organizations to expand the program's impact.
● Stay informed and compliant with confidentiality regulations (HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2) to ensure privacy and trust.
● Uphold state and national peer ethical standards, maintaining professionalism and integrity at all times.
We are looking for someone who:
●A person with lived experience in overcoming substance use and/or mental health challenges, demonstrating a sustained period of stability and resilience.
● High school diploma or GED required to bring foundational knowledge to the role.
● Must hold or be eligible to earn the Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) certification in Virginia within 3 months of hire ensuring expertise in peer recovery.
● In-depth knowledge of recovery principles, trauma-informed care, and harm reduction strategies, empowering peers to heal and thrive.
● Exceptional communication skills, active listening, empathy, and strong interpersonal abilities that foster connection and trust.
● Adaptability in navigating complex situations, knowing when to seek guidance and utilize supervision to best support individuals.
● A collaborative spirit, able to thrive in a dynamic, team-oriented environment where ideas and efforts are shared.
● Basic computer skills and the ability to accurately document services in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system to ensure seamless service delivery.
● A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
● Flexibility to work across a range of environments, including inpatient residential programs, community settings, and outpatient spaces, meeting peers where they’re at in their recovery journey.
We offer:
Competitive pay, Comprehensive benefits plan including health, dental and vision insurance as well as a retirement plan: Paid Time Off and paid holidays