Certified Peer Specialist
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania•Full-time
About the Job
The Certified Peer Specialist is a grant-funded position that supports the mission of SELF, Inc. The Certified Peer Specialist will collaborate with outreach teams affiliated with Philadelphia’s Office of Homeless Services (OHS).
Shift: Typically, 7 AM to 3 PM or 4 PM to 12 AM.
Status: Full Time - Exempt.
Reports To: Mobile Assessor.
Direct Reports: No.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
- Coordinate with street outreach teams to identify households with whom to complete the CEA-BHRS housing assessments.
- Conduct assessments from Office of Homeless Services, Dept. of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services, street outreach teams, and/or other designated parties.
- Assist households with gathering necessary documentation for housing applications, which may include verifications of income, disability, and history of homelessness.
- Support households through the housing assessment and match processes by explaining next steps, assisting with scheduling interviews, etc.
- Enter demographic and assessment data into HMIS or other electronic systems.
- Strongly adhere to Trauma Informed Care and Assertive Engagement principles.
- Serve as lead on the assigned shift.
- Create and facilitate various activities that support recovery in the area of assignment.
- Understand and complete the required documentation.
- Learn and implement guidelines for recovery and resilience-oriented treatment.
- Recognize and report progress made toward meeting recovery objectives.
- Support consumers in creating a Wellness/Recovery Action Plan (WRAP).
- Utilize and teach problem-solving techniques to individuals and/or groups.
- interact sensitively and effectively with individuals in the area of assignment.
- Employ tact, diplomacy, and judgment in dealing with sensitive populations.
- Establish rapport and cooperative relationships with individuals possessing mental health problems.
- Prepare written reports.
- Present ideas effectively, both orally and in writing.
- Other related duties, as assigned.
Education and Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or equivalent with one (1) year of training and/or experience in homelessness, shelter management, clean/sober addiction, and outreach or substance abuse or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Current certification as a Certified Peer Specialist by the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania or an equivalent certifying body.
- Must be well organized, detail-oriented, task-driven, and able to work independently and set daily priorities.
- Must possess effective verbal and written communication skills and a strong willingness to assist whenever needed.
- Must have valid driver's licensing and motor vehicle records. A driver’s test, Criminal, Child Abuse, and FBI clearances will be required.
- Must have (or be willing to learn) basic computer skills for data collection and/or analysis.
- Must have (or be willing to learn) a familiarity with harm reduction strategies, data collection, data analysis, motivational.
EXPERIENCE:
- At least one year of experience working in programs with residential facilities/properties and providing services to individuals with challenges that include homelessness, substance abuse, mental health, or other barriers to self-sufficiency.