PEER SUPPORT SPECIALIST

Paraprofessional level work in providing support, education, outreach, training and follow-up to overdose survivors in the County. Must have the ability to work as a team member and be able to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings. As an active member of the Post Overdose Response Team (PORT), this position reports to the Opioid Response Coordinator and the EMS Chief and integrates with EMS staff at opioid-based emergency scenes. Work is performed under the General supervision of the Opioid Response Coordinator. 

• Works closely with the Opioid Response Coordinator Community Partnership Paramedicine Program (CPPP) Technicians as an active member of the Post Overdose Response Team (PORT).
• Works with Albemarle District Jail to provide peer support care and reentry support for those recently released from incarceration.
• Connects with overdose survivors within 24 to 72 hours of the overdose incident, then for the 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day follow ups (along with other members of PORT).
• Integrates with credentialed EMS staff to deliver the best possible peer support outcome.
• Provides harm reduction education, outreach and naloxone administration training to individuals and groups.
• Promotes wellness management strategies, which include delivering therapeutic interventions (e.g., Wellness Recovery Action Planning and/or Illness Management and Recovery).
• Coordinates and facilitates harm reduction peer support group meetings twice a month and encourages clients and other individuals to attend training sessions and support group meetings. 
• Maintains a weekly record of clients connected to support and services; prepares and submits documentation to the Opioid Response Coordinator accurately and on time.
• Maintains professional boundaries while working with sensitive issues.
• Must be comfortable working with a diverse group of people.
• Addresses and discusses social and drug-related issues and experiences in a non-judgmental manner with individuals and groups.  
• Attends the Opioid Settlement Funds Advisory Committee Meetings and any other identified meetings and trainings.
• Works within the jail, prison and/or local hospital to provide peer support care.
• Models recovery values, attitudes, beliefs and personal action to encourage wellness and resilience. 
• Assist clients by finding resources, encouraging follow through with proposed resolutions, locating social activities, and providing other assistance as needed.
• Models effective coping and self-help techniques to individuals or groups of consumers.
• Actively participates in new or ongoing projects and programs as set forth under the Opioid MOA.

• Certification as Peer Support Specialist.
• Basic knowledge of personal safety standards, safety techniques and safety principles that guide home visits.
• Possession of excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Provides support to the Pasquotank County Recovery Court.
• Other assigned duties.

General knowledge of Public Heath principle, practices, and procedures.
General knowledge and skills in the use of education/training principles.
Skill in problem solving and decision making, and the ability to work independently.
Skill in the use of computers and applicable software.
Ability to comprehend and apply the Federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996, and the current Privacy and Security Amendments of the Act.
Ability to assess, plan, develop, implement, and evaluate using a variety of methodologies.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, clients, and the general public.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.