Peer Respite Worker: 24/7 Crisis Support & Recovery

Community Access; New York (NY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Community Access in New York City operates the Intensive Crisis Residence (ICR) to provide a home-like, 24-hour peer-supported setting for people in acute psychiatric crisis. The Peer Respite Worker mentors guests, supports crisis management, and helps them regain skills to re-enter the community with stability and hope.

Ideal candidates bring lived experience with mental health systems, strong communication, and a commitment to recovery.

Qualifications

• Have lived experience with the mental health system and willingness to share personal experience appropriately and respectfully.
• Ability to be mindfully present and have a respect for, and a high level of comfort around people experiencing psychiatric crisis.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including empathic listening, responding.
• Commitment to recovery oriented practice and ability to utilize critical thinking, problem-solving and de-escalation skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop mentoring and supportive relationships with ICR guests to promote connection and hope.
• Engage guests in individual and group peer support to build crisis-management skills.
• Collaborate with the ICR team to maintain a welcoming home-like atmosphere.
• Document progress and support plans, ensuring confidentiality and safety.

Skills

Bilingual Spanish

Empathic listening

Crisis intervention

Education

High school diploma or GED

NYS Peer Certification (Provisional)

Core peer specialist training program

Job description

Community Access in New York City operates the Intensive Crisis Residence (ICR) to provide a home-like, 24-hour peer-supported setting for people in acute psychiatric crisis. The Peer Respite Worker mentors guests, supports crisis management, and helps them regain skills to re-enter the community with stability and hope.

Ideal candidates bring lived experience with mental health systems, strong communication, and a commitment to recovery.