Recovery-Focused Peer Support Specialist

State of Washington Dept. of Social and Health Services; Lakewood (WA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

5% premium pay on-site days

Orca Card transportation

Job summary

State of Washington Dept. of Social and Health Services seeks a Peer Support Specialist (BHS3) for the Fort Steilacoom Competency Restoration Program in Lakewood.

The role collaborates with forensic teams to support residents through recovery, illness management, and life skills development. The position emphasizes lived experience with mental health and competency services, advocacy, and active treatment planning, with on-site work at the Lakewood facility and potential premium pay for on-site

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in sociology, psychology, or related social science field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least two years of professional counseling or casework experience OR one year as a Behavioral Health Specialist 2 OR six+ years combined education/experience.
• Lived-experience with behavioral health and willingness to share insights to support patients.

Responsibilities

• Provide patients with expertise about recovery, symptom management, and pursuing a meaningful life.
• Assist patients with creating and maintaining Wellness Recovery Action Plans.
• Advocate for patient rights, self-determination, and informed decision making in treatment planning and support services.
• Offer guidance from a patient perspective on symptoms, medications, treatment options, and recovery experiences.
• Increase awareness of self-help and consumer advocacy resources for recovery.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Critical thinking

Group facilitation

De-escalation techniques

Trauma‑informed care

Behavioral health experience

Crisis intervention

Education

Bachelor’s degree in sociology/psychology or related field

Equivalent education/experience totaling 6+ years

Job description

State of Washington Dept. of Social and Health Services seeks a Peer Support Specialist (BHS3) for the Fort Steilacoom Competency Restoration Program in Lakewood.

The role collaborates with forensic teams to support residents through recovery, illness management, and life skills development. The position emphasizes lived experience with mental health and competency services, advocacy, and active treatment planning, with on-site work at the Lakewood facility and potential premium pay for on-site