Crisis-Response Peer Support Specialist

McKinley Community Services, Inc.; Chicago, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

McKinley Community Services, Inc. is seeking a Peer Support Specialist to provide emotional support, advocacy, and role-modeling for individuals in crisis. You will promote engagement with community supports and help clients navigate behavioral health systems.

The role requires working on-site and includes coordinating with the crisis continuum of care team to empower recovery and self-advocacy while connecting clients to resources and services in the community.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; CRSS certification within 1 year preferred.
• Minimum 2–4 years in nonprofit, community mental health, human services, or related field.
• Must be 21+ and hold a valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Provide emotional support and advocacy for clients in crisis.
• Assist clients with symptom management and recovery through wellness modeling.
• Promote engagement with community supports and self-advocacy.
• Serve as a bridge between clients and clinical staff; collaborate with crisis team.

Skills

Community resources expertise

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Team collaboration

High-stress handling

Organization

Documentation

Emotional resilience

Education

High School Diploma or GED

CRSS certification within 1 year

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

McKinley Community Services, Inc. is seeking a Peer Support Specialist to provide emotional support, advocacy, and role-modeling for individuals in crisis. You will promote engagement with community supports and help clients navigate behavioral health systems.

The role requires working on-site and includes coordinating with the crisis continuum of care team to empower recovery and self-advocacy while connecting clients to resources and services in the community.