Certified Peer Support Specialist

JOB TITLE: Certified Peer Support Specialist-Addictions

JOB SUMMARY: The Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) – Addictions is a person with lived experience in recovery from substance use who uses that experience to support others on their recovery journey. This role involves providing mentorship, advocacy, and support services to individuals struggling with addiction. The CPSS works as part of a multidisciplinary team to help clients achieve sustained recovery and improved quality of life.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide non-clinical, peer-based recovery support to individuals with substance use disorders.
• Serve as a positive role model for recovery by sharing firsthand experiences, strengths, and hope.
• Assist clients in identifying personal recovery goals and developing action plans.
• Offer one-on-one support, group facilitation, and peer mentoring.
• Help clients navigate the behavioral health system and connect with recovery resources.
• Encourage the use of community-based support systems (e.g., 12-step, SMART Recovery, faith-based).
• Support clients in crisis situations and assist with relapse prevention strategies.
• Collaborate with clinical staff, participate in case reviews, and care planning meetings.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in accordance with agency standards.
• Uphold ethical standards, boundaries, and confidentiality in all peer interactions.

SUPERVISED BY: Director, Addiction Services

EMPLOYEES SUPERVISED: None applicable.

Qualifications

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Effective communication and people skills.
• Compassionate, empathetic, and patient-centered approach to care.
• Ability to manage stressful situations and remain calm under pressure.
• Experience working in a treatment, recovery, or behavioral health setting.
• Knowledge of harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and recovery-oriented systems of care.
• Bilingual in Spanish preferred but not mandatory.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education – High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• Certified as a Peer Support Specialist in the state of Indiana.
• Experience – Personal experience with substance uses and at least 1-2 years of continuous recovery.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Occasional standing, walking, lifting, reaching, kneeling, bending, stooping, pushing, and pulling for extended periods of time.
• Occasional lifting and/or moving up to twenty-five pounds.
• Frequent sitting.
• Ability to communicate by speaking and hearing in person or on the phone.

Work Environment:

• May require travel between community locations and treatment facilities.
• May involve working evenings, weekends, or on-call shifts.
• Exposure to individuals in crisis or active substance use.