Recovery-Focused Peer Support Specialist

Independent Living Inc; City of Middletown (NY); On-site; USD 28,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid holidays from first day

Paid lunch break

Paid time off

401(k) with company match

Health, Dental and Vision insurance

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

Life/AD&D and disability insurance

Voluntary insurances incl. CriticalIll

Job summary

Independent Living Inc. seeks a Peer Diversion Specialist in Middletown, NY. This full-time, non-exempt role focuses on outreach, advocacy, and recovery-oriented peer support for individuals facing mental health challenges and housing instability.

You will collaborate with hospitals, crisis teams, and community partners to reduce crises and promote independence. A compassionate, experienced peer advocate will thrive in this team-driven environment.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Lived experience with mental health recovery or related challenges and a desire to support others.
• Compassionate, empathetic, recovery-oriented approach to peer support.
• Ability to build trust with diverse individuals.
• Strong communication, advocacy, and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of behavioral health systems and community resources; willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Connect with individuals experiencing mental health challenges or housing instability to offer encouragement and advocacy.
• Provide peer support to prevent crises and unnecessary hospitalizations.
• Coordinate with hospitals, mobile crisis teams, and community organizations to arrange services.
• Conduct follow-up outreach and help develop wellness and recovery plans.
• Assist individuals in creating advance directives and preferred care goals.
• Mentor individuals to protect rights and improve self-advocacy.
• Identify community needs and share insights for program improvement.
• Maintain accurate documentation and participate in trainings and meetings.

Skills

Lived experience with mental health

Compassionate, empathetic approach

Strong communication & advocacy

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Bachelor’s degree in human services

CRPA credential (plus)

Job description

Independent Living Inc. seeks a Peer Diversion Specialist in Middletown, NY. This full-time, non-exempt role focuses on outreach, advocacy, and recovery-oriented peer support for individuals facing mental health challenges and housing instability.

You will collaborate with hospitals, crisis teams, and community partners to reduce crises and promote independence. A compassionate, experienced peer advocate will thrive in this team-driven environment.