Peer Support Specialist I (213) at Kings View in Hanford, 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 (213)
Hanford, CA

The Peer Support Specialist I - MCRT is an essential member of the Mobile Crisis Response Team, supporting individuals of all ages experiencing mental health crises. Under the general supervision of the Program Manager, this role involves responding to incoming calls and chats/texts on various crisis and community support lines. The Specialist addresses a broad range of non-life-threatening mental health situations without police or EMS involvement. Key responsibilities include conducting intake and needs assessments, coordinating services, and advocating for community members to ensure continuity of care. This position requires active listening, collaborative problem-solving, and safety planning to effectively assist those in crisis. Flexibility in scheduling is crucial, as the program operates 24/7.

How will I contribute
Provide direct advocacy and support, acting as a liaison between individuals, their families, and the MCRT. Collaborate with experienced staff to develop consumer-driven wellness and recovery plans. Complete accurate documentation within established timeframes, including necessary signatures and registration forms. Respond compassionately to calls in the call center, following organizational protocols. Communicate relevant information to supervisors and designated personnel both in writing and verbally. Transport clients as approved by a supervisor. Work closely with MCRT members to prevent re-hospitalization and promote stabilization. Conduct 72-hour follow-up check-ins with individuals after the initial crisis response. Support brief life skills coaching, linkage to wraparound services, and compliance planning for missed medication management appointments. Coordinate with community partners for outreach events. Complete four hours of cultural competency training each fiscal year. Demonstrate proficiency in electronic record-keeping systems, including SmartCare and One Point, while documenting services provided. Collect and document all contacts and required data using designated software and helpline systems. Offer resources and referrals to clients, including making outgoing and follow-up calls. Apply crisis intervention techniques and connect individuals to community safety net programs. Evaluate consumers for potential W&I 5150 Code assessments and assist in placing rescue calls for emergencies. Navigate multiple databases to locate and refer contacts to appropriate community resources. Maintain satisfactory performance ratings for monitored calls and meet expectations for answer rates across all lines. Attend mandatory quarterly staff meetings and complete required training to stay informed on best practices and policies. Participate in on-call services on a rotational basis as required by the program 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 will 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 other duties as assigned to support the overall functioning and success of the program.
What I bring
High School Diploma (or Equivalent) Class C Driving License1 year of 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.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.Possess strong note-taking skills and basic computer proficiency, alongside excellent communication and compassionate listening abilities. A capacity to remain calm and self-regulate during crisis situations is essential, as well as the ability to engage consumers and use de-escalation techniques to ensure safety. Proficiency in data entry, with a focus on accuracy and integrity, is crucial. Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary for collaborating with consumers, families, and professionals, as well as maintaining thorough case records. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills will be key in developing appropriate care plans with the Mobile Crisis Response Team. Additionally, the ability to respond effectively in emergency situations and work both independently and collaboratively within a team is vital.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.College degree, Substance Abuse clinical experience, Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

The Benefits
Medical, Dental, Vision InsuranceLife and Long-Term Disability Insurance401k planVacation timeTwelve (12) Paid HolidaysEducation Reimbursement Program up to $1000 per yearReferral ProgramEmployee Assistance ProgramAn environment of like-minded people reaching for the same goalServing the underserved communityA 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.