217 Mental Health Peer Provider

Under the general supervision of a Qualified Peer Support Supervisor (QPS), who is supervised by a Licensed Practitioner of Healing Arts (LPHA), this position is responsible for the delivery of support services to individuals with severe and persistent mental illness, as defined by the state authority and The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Services must be provided in accordance with the Performance Contract, Community Service Standards, Helen Farabee Centers (HFC) policy and procedures, Medicaid standards and HHSC guidelines.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Provides support services, serves as a consumer advocate, and provides information to individuals receiving services and peer support in an outpatient setting. The Peer Provider will perform a wide range of tasks to assist individuals in regaining control over their own lives and over their own recovery process. These tasks may include recovery and wellness support, mentoring, and advocacy. Assisting an individual in their recovery can include providing individual and group sessions. Peer Provider will model personal responsibility, self-advocacy and hopefulness by sharing their recovery story to help individuals identify and experience recovery in their own life. The Peer Provider will support individuals and learning teams (staff and community) providing hope, encouragement, support, self-determination and connection to the community.

Teamwork, initiative and positive example in work habits are always expected. This position requires an aptitude for working with severely mentally ill, often impoverished people; and for seeing this as work in which we take great pride. The Peer Provider should have experience and knowledge of what it is like to live with mental illness as well as a basic understanding of the importance of psychotherapeutic medications and adherence to treatment plans. HFC incorporates principles of trauma-informed care throughout the agency, emphasizing cultural sensitivity and a safe and respectful environment for all individuals served and staff. All job descriptions include the responsibility to learn about and implement trauma-informed practices within the scope of work for the position. Reassignment is a condition of employment that may occur at the employer’s discretion. Your work location and hours could change based on program needs.

Education, Training, and Experience

Graduation from a standard high school or GED. Eligible for certification as a Mental Health Peer Specialist according to the State Authority’s guidelines and ViaHope policies and procedures (Certifying body). The individual should have one year of successful treatment for a mental health issue and be willing to disclose their lived experience and work toward recovery. Must have valid driver’s license and be insurable to drive Center vehicles. Must pass and maintain all Center mandated trainings. Must obtain certification as a Mental Health Peer Specialist (MHPS) within the eighteen months of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of programs for persons with behavioral and intellectual challenges, of peer philosophy and role, of recovery models, and of trauma informed care.
• Skill in sharing personal challenges, in listening, and in documenting and monitoring interactions with persons served.
• Ability to write progress notes according to standard with acceptable spelling and grammar.
• Display a customer service orientation; at all times treating patients as equals and partners.
• Ability to work in teams, to follow policies and procedures, to work with persons in challenging situations, and to communicate effectively.
• Ability to relate verbal instructions, communicate in a courteous and effective fashion with co-workers, individuals served and families, agencies and the public.
• Skilled in the use of network computers, word processing, database software, SmartCare, as it relates to documenting patient and family contacts.