Certified Peer Specialist

The Certified Peer Specialist is a grant-funded position that supports the mission of SELF, Inc. The Certified Peer Specialist will collaborate with outreach teams affiliated with Philadelphia’s Office of Homeless Services (OHS).

Shift: Typically, 7 AM to 3 PM or 4 PM to 12 AM.

Status: Full Time - Exempt.

Reports To: Mobile Assessor.

Direct Reports: No.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate with street outreach teams to identify households with whom to complete the CEA-BHRS housing assessments.
• Conduct assessments from Office of Homeless Services, Dept. of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services, street outreach teams, and/or other designated parties.
• Assist households with gathering necessary documentation for housing applications, which may include verifications of income, disability, and history of homelessness.
• Support households through the housing assessment and match processes by explaining next steps, assisting with scheduling interviews, etc.
• Enter demographic and assessment data into HMIS or other electronic systems.
• Strongly adhere to Trauma Informed Care and Assertive Engagement principles.
• Serve as lead on the assigned shift.
• Create and facilitate various activities that support recovery in the area of assignment.
• Understand and complete the required documentation.
• Learn and implement guidelines for recovery and resilience-oriented treatment.
• Recognize and report progress made toward meeting recovery objectives.
• Support consumers in creating a Wellness/Recovery Action Plan (WRAP).
• Utilize and teach problem-solving techniques to individuals and/or groups.
• interact sensitively and effectively with individuals in the area of assignment.
• Employ tact, diplomacy, and judgment in dealing with sensitive populations.
• Establish rapport and cooperative relationships with individuals possessing mental health problems.
• Prepare written reports.
• Present ideas effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Other related duties, as assigned.

Education and Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent with one (1) year of training and/or experience in homelessness, shelter management, clean/sober addiction, and outreach or substance abuse or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Current certification as a Certified Peer Specialist by the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania or an equivalent certifying body.
• Must be well organized, detail-oriented, task-driven, and able to work independently and set daily priorities.
• Must possess effective verbal and written communication skills and a strong willingness to assist whenever needed.
• Must have valid driver's licensing and motor vehicle records. A driver’s test, Criminal, Child Abuse, and FBI clearances will be required.
• Must have (or be willing to learn) basic computer skills for data collection and/or analysis.
• Must have (or be willing to learn) a familiarity with harm reduction strategies, data collection, data analysis, motivational.

EXPERIENCE:

• At least one year of experience working in programs with residential facilities/properties and providing services to individuals with challenges that include homelessness, substance abuse, mental health, or other barriers to self-sufficiency.