Peer Support Specialist

Job Description

Harborview's Mental Health and Addiction Services (HMHAS) department has an outstanding opportunity for a Peer Support Specialist – Peer Bridger.

WORK SCHEDULE

• 40 hours per week
• Day Shift
• This position is expected to be a 12 month duration.

POSITION HIGHLIGHTS

• Model resiliency in overcoming obstacles common to those with mental illness
• Serve a wide diverse population of clients, all of whom have clear and persistent mental illness
• Help clients reach goals and provide the support needed to accomplish them

PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Share lived experience to inspire recovery and resilience; support consumers in setting and achieving recovery goals
• Provide one-on-one support during and after Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) visits, including transition from inpatient to outpatient care
• Build supportive relationships that promote wellness, choice, and hope
• Connect consumers to community resources (e.g., healthcare, housing, employment, support groups) and assist with benefits applications
• Educate consumers on psychiatric medications and assist with prescription access post-discharge
• Collaborate with inpatient/outpatient teams and PES staff to develop individualized transition plans
• Teach independent living skills such as budgeting, meal prep, transportation, and community engagement
• Attend team meetings, provide coverage for peers, and maintain accurate clinical and billing documentation
• Manage records, operate office equipment, and maintain inventory for support services

REQUIREMENTS

High school graduation or equivalent and two years’ experience in a behavioral health organization or consumer/peer run organization; or equivalent education/experience.

AND

Peer Counselor Certification (Department of Behavioral Health and Recovery) OR Community Health Worker Certification (Department of Health)

AND

Within 7 days of employment and depending on job requirements:

must apply for Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration/License with the State of WA (Dept of Health), and have obtained this credential within 60 days of hire (RCW18.19.210).

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

DEPARTMENT SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

• Must obtain an Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration with the State of Washington.
• Must obtain a Peer Support Specialist Certification issued by the Mental Health Division as specified in WAC 388-865-0107 within the first 6 months of employment.
• May need a Washington State Drivers License.
• May need to obtain and maintain a Food Handler’s Permit.

DESIRED SKILLS

• Exceptional communication skills, written, oral, and telephone.
• Experience interacting and communicating with a diverse population, using sensitivity, tact, and discretion.
• Demonstrated computer experience and proficiency, preferably in a Windows-based environment.
• Demonstrated history of commitment to continuously improving quality and service.
• Maintains the highest standards of confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical conduct.
• Demonstrates independent judgment and decision-making skills and appropriately prioritizes and handles multiple tasks.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$22.94 hourly

Pay Range Maximum:

$32.81 hourly

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-temporary-per-diem-and-less-than-half-time/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a temporary position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

SEIU Local 925 Nonsupervisory

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.