Certified Peer Specialist

The Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) works within Mental Health Connect and along with the Mental Health Navigator, is responsible for assisting individuals and families in obtaining mental health treatment, resources, support and education.  As an advocate for the clients needs and rights, the CPS helps the individual build self-determination skills, supports recovery hope and builds connections to the community.  The CPS also represents Mental Health Connect at outreach events and provides information and education to the broader community 

Reports to: MHC Executive Director

Hours/Status: Part-time, flexible, 10-15 hours per week

Pay Range: $21-$23/hr

Primary Duties: 

  • Assist Mental Health Navigator with selected clients for ongoing support, services, and resources

    • Meet with individuals and families to create and implement service plan

    • Follow up with clients and modify plan as needed until satisfactory result.

    • Report progress to Navigator

  • Provide Outreach and Referral Service at MHC sites

    • Coordinate with Executive Director and Outreach Coordinator for scheduling

    • Provide one-time service to walk-in clients or refer to MHC Navigator

    • Report site activity to Executive Director

    • Communicate with site staff as needed

  • Maintain office hours at MHC office for resource and referral needs

    • Regular weekly schedule

    • Available some evening and weekend hours for events or meetings as needed

  • Participate in MHC education and outreach

    • Assist in publicizing program services at collaborative and community sites

    • Participate in staff and congregation mental health education at collaborative sites

  • Assist in establishing and maintaining referral relationships with mental health professionals and community resources

  • Meet with Executive Director weekly regarding program activities, concerns and opportunities

Position Standards:

  • The ability to share personal recovery experiences and to develop authentic peer-to-peer relationships is essential to effective CPS performance.  Thus, the CPS must hold the following beliefs and demonstrate the following qualities:

    • A personal belief in recovery and a willingness to share their own recovery experience

    • A genuine hope and optimism that their peers will succeed

    • A sincere interest in the welfare of peers, including the ability to see each person as a unique individual 

    • An ability to flexibly engage people in the recovery process based on their level of receptivity and individual needs

  • Promote self-advocacy by supporting recovering persons in identifying areas of need for professional supports

  • Assist recovering persons in having their voices fully heard and established as the focal point of rehabilitation and clinical services

  • Practice the skills relevant to the Emotional Intelligence Competencies, including but not limited to maintaining resiliency and optimism in times of change, maintaining effective relationships at all levels, managing emotions under pressure and resolving conflicts constructively

  • Maintain a professional, respectful demeanor, establish personal boundaries and uphold ethical standards

  • Treat others with dignity and respect, recognizing the values and strengths of all people and cultures

  • Comply with HIPAA Privacy Practices and Mandated Reporting laws

Required: 

  • Current CPS certification

  • Education-prefer some college level preparation in health and human services

  • Experience-background in areas such as mental health, faith community work, social work, care coordination or community health

  • Working knowledge of available mental health resources

  • Strong communication skills and ability to connect with different systems and cultures

  • Proficiency with Google products

  • Supportive of the Mission

Application Process:

Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter to employment@bethlehem-church.org with the position title in the email subject line. Interviews will be conducted in an ongoing fashion. The position is open until filled, contingent upon passing a background check.

Original job posting can be found here.

About Mental Health Connect:

MHC Description: MHC is an interfaith collaborative that works to bring faith communities together, provide a mental health ministry and support for people looking for resources. MHC is unique because of the Mental Health Navigator and/or Peer Specialist warm line, Ambassador collaborative program, combined with education events and community building. MHC services are free of charge to the community.

Vision: Faith communities with no mental health stigma.

Mission: As a collaborative of faith communities, Mental Health Connect (MHC) builds capacity by providing support and education to reduce sigma and improve access to mental health services.

Values: We believe mental health is health and everyone deserves health care—no exceptions. Each person is worthy of dignity, respect, and love. Working at the intersection of faith and mental health we value:

  • Inclusion – Embracing a diversity of backgrounds, faiths, and spiritual beliefs.

  • Collaboration – Working together to de-stigmatize mental illness.

  • Hope – Seeing, hearing, supporting, and understanding.

  • Support – Accompanying individuals navigating mental health services and resources.