Peer Support Specialist

Must be a current or past consumer of mental health or co-occurring behavioral health services.

2-3 years of success within a personal recovery model.

Minimum 1 year of experience in a Behavioral Health setting.

Any criminal history will be evaluated in relationship to job responsibilities and business necessity.  The information obtained in these reports will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

(available for benefits eligible positions only):

Health: Medical, Dental and Vision plans available for qualifying staff and family

Holiday, Vacation and Sick Leave

Education discount for staff and dependents (undergraduate only)

Retirement: Up to 10% matched contribution from UAMS

Basic Life Insurance up to $50,000

The Peer Support Specialist is housed within the Health and the Legal System (HEALS) Lab in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

Using their own unique life experiences, the Peer Support Specialist (PSS) in the HEALS lab will support and provide guidance to program participants on basic mental health practices, accessing needed services and community supports, and sustaining sobriety.

Under the guidance of licensed behavioral health providers, the Peer Support Specialist will function as a role model to HEALS’ program/research participants; exhibit competency in personal recovery and use of coping skills; serve as a behavioral health consumer advocate; and provide basic mental health practices for clients/participants.

The incumbent will represent UAMS and HEALS Lab in a positive and professional manner and adhere to all best practices, guidelines, policies and procedures as established.

Assist the individual in identifying personal and environmental obstacles to recovery, linking the individual to the recovery community, including inpatient substance abuse rehab services if needed, and serve as a personal guide and mentor in the management of personal and family recovery.

Work with clinical staff in developing and implementing post-discharge follow-up procedures to support participants following discharge.