Peer Support Specialist I (223) at Kings View in Visalia, California

Job Description:

Kings View is a nonprofit leader in providing behavioral health services to the underserved community, is currently seeking a driven Peer Support Specialist I to join our mission to provide compassionate services to those with limited resources. Our ideal candidate will have a passion to promote social justice and societal awareness, respect for human dignity, and lead with integrity while listening and responding to the community in need.

Peer Support Specialist I (223)
Visalia, CA

The Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) program is aimed at delivering mental health and substance use disorder (SUD) services to severely impaired individuals who suffer without access to essential treatment. Under the general supervision of the Clinical Program Manager, the Peer Support Specialist will provide community-based services and supports.

How will I contribute
Provide direct advocacy, emotional support, mentoring, and lived experience expertise to consumers. Facilitate peer support groups and recovery-oriented activities. Assist experienced staff in the development of consumer driven wellness and recovery plans. Complete all documentation within the identified time frame. Maintain clear, accurate, and concise consumer records in the SmartCare EHR system, in a timely manner. Communicate pertinent information, both in writing and verbally to supervisor or Designee. Transport clients when approved by supervisor. Maintain accurate, written clinical records of services provided per established agency, COA, HIPAA, CCBHC and CalAIMS standards. Complete documentation within established timeframes, including collecting appropriate signatures, registration forms, etc. Sign off, discharge per program plan. Develop and assist in the implementation of brief life skills coaching of individuals/s, linkage to wraparound services/resources, and compliance planning for no-shows for medication management services. Coordinate with community partners to identify and attend various outreach events. Achieve four hours of cultural competency training each fiscal year. Achieve advanced competence in using our electronic record keeping system. Includes but is not limited to the following: a. Use of SmartCare; b. Effective documentation of services provided; c. Competence in using assigned laptop at remote locations; d. Effective use of One Point, the electronic timecard system. Offer any applicable resources and referrals to clients. Navigate multiple computer databases to locate and refer contacts to appropriate community resources. Attend mandatory quarterly staff meetings and complete required trainings, workshops, and continuing education to remain knowledgeable about best practices, policies, and protocols. May encounter risk of working with persons with SMI (serious mental illness) that may include, but not limited to persons in mental health crisis, persons that may be intoxicated or impaired by drugs or alcohol, persons who may be DTO (danger to others), DTS (Danger to Self), or GD (Gravely Disabled). If such situations arise, staff may be required to call local emergency personnel to help deescalate the crisis, use crisis intervention techniques, and consult with supervisor as soon as practically possible. Perform additional responsibilities as they develop and are assigned.

What I bring
High School Diploma (or Equivalent) 1 year experience working with the public. Must be a current or past consumer of mental health services or a family member of a consumer if program requires Class C Driving License Ability to engage consumers and safely de-escalate situations by using specialized tactics, strength-based techniques and adequate and immediate linkage. Basic understanding and appreciation of wellness and recovery principles. Interest in obtaining the knowledge of the philosophy and goals of program assigned, common practices and procedures in wellness and recovery interaction with clients Ability to take clear concise notes. Basic Computer Skills. Strong communication and compassionate listening skills. Ability to self-regulate and utilize calmness to manage crisis situations. Ability to engage consumers and safely de-escalate situations by using specialized tactics, strength-based techniques and adequate and immediate linkage. Effective data entry skills using various electronic systems while maintaining the integrity and accuracy of the data. Strong verbal and written communication skills to collaborate with person served family members and friends as well as other professionals linked to ongoing care and ability to maintain good case records, including documentation and safety planning. Critical thinking and problem solving with the Mobile Crisis Response Team to determine the best care plan for the person served. Ability to react appropriately to emergency situations. Ability to work independently and effectively collaborate as part of a team. Strong desire to help those in need. Understands the importance of empathy, cultural competency, and connection to help callers develop a plan to manage current and future crises. Function autonomously and exercise good judgment and decision-making skills, particularly in a crisis Completion of a peer training program or certificate of completion for WRAP Seminar I or certificate of completion for Taking Action for Whole Health and Wellbeing Seminar I. Crisis counseling/mental health experience; experience linking people with needed community resources. Bilingual in Spanish preferred

The Benefits
Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance 401k plan Vacation time Twelve (12) Paid Holidays Education Reimbursement Program up to $1000 per year Referral Program Employee Assistance Program An environment of like-minded people reaching for the same goal Serving the underserved community A sense of purpose

Who We Are
Since 1951, Kings View leads the community in providing behavioral health services to the underserved population. We have a strong tradition of commitment, and we focus on serving rural communities where health resources are often limited. Our people treat the community with care and compassion. We stand by our cornerstone and philosophy of valuing each persons worth, dignity and wholeness in body, mind, and spirit. Our principal core values echo throughout the organization and into our patient-focused programs. At Kings View we are dedicated to continuing our demonstration in the unparalleled commitment to wellness and recovery within each community we serve. Join us and apply today.