Peer Support Specialist – Reentry

Austin Mental Health Community
Please apply for the position here:
app.startinfinity.com/form/6920f031-c45f-4191-966e-c322863ba2d0
General Description:
The Peer Support Specialist (PSS) is a dedicated individual who provides support, guidance, and encouragement to incarcerated individuals in a jail facility. The PSS serves as a role model, offering emotional support and practical assistance, helping peers navigate challenges related to incarceration, mental health, substance use, personal development, and overall well-being. This role is crucial in fostering a supportive, safe, and rehabilitative environment within the facility.
You will also assist people in connecting to immediate mental health/substance use services, community resources, and long-term support options after their incarceration. By working closely with law enforcement, counselors, and other staff, you will integrate peer perspectives into care plans and provide insights based on your lived experience. Additionally, you may provide accurate documentation of each interaction and ensure confidentiality and compliance with privacy regulations, and you will support follow-up efforts to connect individuals to further care.
Major Responsibilities:
Provide Peer Support in a jail setting.
Utilize active listening skills to engage with individuals creating a safe and supportive space.
Resource referrals.
Communicate collaboratively with clinicians, support staff, and others who may be involved in supporting your peer.
Attend all meetings.
Advocate for individuals to gain the support and resources they need.
Promote self-management and self-agency.
Strong organizational and program planning.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Maintain accurate records of support.
Excellent interpersonal skills.
Proficiency in standard business software (e.g., Word, PPT, Excel, Outlook) and familiarity with online technology.
Required Responsibilities:
MHPS (Mental Health Peer Specialist), RSPS (Recovery Support Peer Specialist), and/or RPS (Justice Involved- Reentry Peer Specialist) Texas Certification required or the ability to gain the certification.
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to relate to individuals in distress, providing non-judgmental, empathetic support.
Maintain professional boundaries with peers and adhere to ethical guidelines. Ensure that personal relationships do not interfere with the professional responsibilities of the Peer Support Specialist.
Educate incarcerated individuals about available facility programs and services, including educational opportunities, counseling, and rehabilitation programs. Assist peers in accessing these resources.
Ability to develop and maintain positive mentoring relationships with incarcerated individuals to encourage personal growth, recovery, and accountability. Serve as a trusted resource for navigating challenges within the facility.
Ability to maintain calm under pressure and manage emotionally intense situations.
Understanding of confidentiality and professional boundaries.
Comfort working in a team-oriented environment with clinicians, social workers, and other support staff.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $2,760.00 per month
Benefits:
Flexible schedule
Health insurance
Life insurance
Schedule:
10 hour shift
8 hour shift
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person
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