Job Description

Position Overview

The  TRP / Peer Support Specialist provides recovery-oriented, peer-based support services to individuals experiencing mental health and/or substance use challenges. Using lived experience, the Peer Support Specialist helps individuals build hope, resilience, and self-determination while supporting engagement in services that promote long-term stability.

This role works collaboratively with clinical staff, crisis response teams, and community partners to deliver trauma-informed, culturally responsive care that reduces unnecessary hospitalizations, emergency department utilization, and justice system involvement.

Primary Responsibilities

Peer Support & Recovery Services

• Provide peer-based support services utilizing lived experience to foster trust, hope, and empowerment
• Support individuals in identifying recovery goals and developing individualized recovery plans
• Promote engagement in outpatient, community-based, and recovery-support services

Crisis & Community Support

• Provide peer support to individuals experiencing behavioral health or substance use crises, including mobile and community-based services as assigned
• Assist in de-escalation, safety planning, and stabilization efforts under program guidelines
• Collaborate with crisis teams, clinical staff, hospitals, law enforcement, and community organizations to ensure appropriate linkage and follow-up

Care Coordination & Advocacy

• Assist individuals in navigating systems of care, including behavioral health, medical, and community resources
• Provide advocacy to ensure individuals’ voices, preferences, and needs are respected
• Support individuals in overcoming barriers to care, including transportation coordination as permitted by program policy

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate, timely, and objective documentation of services provided in accordance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements
• Adhere to ethical peer support practices, confidentiality standards, and Kentucky Peer Support regulations
• Participate in supervision, team meetings, and required trainings

Professional Development

• Engage in ongoing training to strengthen skills in peer support, trauma-informed care, and crisis intervention
• Support continuous quality improvement initiatives and program development efforts

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Must complete a  Kentucky-approved Peer Support Specialist (PSS) Certification and pass the certification exam within  six (6) months of hire , in accordance with 908 KAR 2:220
• Lived experience in recovery from mental health and/or substance use challenges
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including alternate hours as the program may require
• Ability to pass required background checks and screenings
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of automobile insurance

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in community-based behavioral health, crisis services, or TRP programs
• Familiarity with trauma-informed and recovery-oriented systems of care
• Experience collaborating with multidisciplinary teams

Work Environment & Expectations

• Community-based and mobile service delivery may be required
• Physical ability to transport or accompany individuals to appointments as permitted
• Compliance with health and safety requirements, including proof of a recent TB test (per policy)

Benefits

Be part of a supportive, mission-driven team that values growth and feedback.

• Employer-paid health insurance (after probation) 
• Optional vision and dental insurance (employee-paid) 
• Paid time off (PTO) + 11 paid federal holidays (PTO accrual begins after probation)
• Professional development support 
• Opportunities for advancement within HBH

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