Peer Support Specialist (CSU)

Job Summary

This position supports clients during their stay at the Resource and Crisis Center by providing compassionate care, de-escalation, and coordination of services.

The role includes developing discharge and safety plans, offering follow-up support, and connecting clients to community resources. The specialist collaborates with the interdisciplinary team, maintains accurate documentation, and upholds confidentiality and professional standards.

Essential Functions

• Engage and collaborate with clients presenting for care at the Resource and Crisis Center
• Provide continuity of care throughout the client’s stay, including discharge planning and post-discharge follow-up
• Encourage client participation in the care process, communicating clearly about available options and aligning with client preferences whenever possible
• Function as an integral member of the interdisciplinary care team to maximize client outcomes
• Welcome clients to the Crisis Center, establishing a safe and supportive environment
• De-escalate crises while interacting with clients with dignity and respect
• Provide referrals and connect clients to preferred community services
• Collaborate with clients to create and implement safety plans
• Assist clients in accessing services and navigating barriers post-discharge
• Share lived experience when appropriate to support client engagement
• Assist clients in understanding and managing their symptoms
• Support connections to self-help groups when appropriate
• Maintain strict confidentiality at all times
• Participate in clinical supervision, staff meetings, and crisis debriefings
• Advocate for client needs, rights, and preferences
• Complete all required electronic and paper documentation accurately and timely
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Job Requirements & Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or GED required
• Associate degree or higher preferred

Certifications & Training

• MDHHS Certified Peer Support Specialist required

Experience

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in mental health, substance use treatment, or crisis services in a hospital or community setting
• Familiarity with community resources for mental health and substance use treatment

Skills & Competencies

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Effective problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Accurate documentation and record-keeping

Knowledge Requirements

• HIPAA compliance
• Microsoft 365
• Recipient Rights
• Mental Health Code
• Medicaid Manual
• Regulatory compliance standards

Core Competencies

• Integrity / Building Trust: Demonstrates ethical behavior and alignment with organizational values
• Customer Focus: Prioritizes client needs and builds strong relationships
• Continuous Learning: Actively seeks opportunities for growth and applies new knowledge
• Work Standards: Maintains accountability and high performance expectations
• Communication: Clearly conveys information in a way that engages and informs others

Additional Information

• Work is performed primarily in a crisis center environment
• Must be available for meetings or events outside standard business hours, as needed
• Must be able to meet the physical requirements of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation

Equal Opportunity Statement

Oakland Community Health Network is committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply.