PACT Peer Specialist

PACT PEER SPECIALIST

LWC is seeking a Peer Specialist to work as a member of the PACT Team. The Peer Specialist shares their knowledge and insight, and personal and practical experience, as a recipient of mental health services to benefit of the PACT team and clients. PACT is a program that provides an array of treatment, rehabilitation and support services, Evidence Based Practices and a multidisciplinary team approach for adults with severe and persistent mental illness. The Peer Specialist provides expertise about the recovery process and symptom management required by clients to have a satisfying life; collaborates to promote a team culture that recognizes, understands, and respects each client’s point of view, experiences, and preferences; is responsible to maximize client choice, self-determination and decision-making in the planning, delivery, and evaluation of treatment rehabilitation and support services; provides peer counseling and consultation to individual clients, families, and PACT team staff; acts as a liaison with community resources; carries out rehabilitation and support function; assists in treatment, substance abuse services, education, support, and crisis intervention to with clients, as well as families.

Preferred Qualifications:

The peer specialist may have a college degree in a human services field, or in another area, have a high school diploma, or have at least two years of paid or volunteer work experience with adults with severe and persistent mental illnesses. Must have good oral and written communication skills. The peer specialist, who is or has been a recipient of mental health services for severe and persistent mental illness, should have self-knowledge to manage their mental illness and be active in recovery. Must have a strong commitment to the right and the ability of each person with a severe mental illness to live in normal community residences; work in market jobs; and have access to helpful, adequate, competent, and continuous supports and services. It is essential the peer specialist have skills and competence to establish supportive trusting relationships with persons with severe and persistent mental illnesses and respect for clients’ rights and personal preferences in treatment is essential. Must be eligible to obtain an Agency Affiliated Counselor credential in accordance to WAC 246-810-015 within 30 days of hire, and be willing to obtain recognition by the division of behavioral health and recovery (DBHR) as a “peer counselor” as defined in WAC 388-877-0200 within one year following employment. Must have a valid driver’s license or effectively use transportation to travel independently in the program’s service area.

Why Work for Lake Whatcom Center?

LWC is a DSHS licensed not-for-profit organization providing an array of residential and community mental health services to adults with severe and persistent mental illness. We pride ourselves on understanding our clients’ needs and their ability to meet their goal of Recovery. We are a fast-growing service and committed to creating a supportive and positive environment for all our employees.

LWC offers competitive salaries along with a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical
• Dental
• Competitive vacation and
• Generous sick leave
• Holiday premium pay
• Floating holidays, and
• Annual base pay increases

LWC is a tobacco-free and scent-free workplace. LWC is an Equal Opportunity employer, we are committed to an Affirmative Action Program and enhancing the diversity of our staff. We strongly encourage applicants to apply without regard to race, color, national origin, gender identity, age, religion, creed, marital status, ancestral heritage, sexual orientation, Vietnam Era Veteran status, or the presences on any physical, mental and/or sensory disability. If accommodations are needed for participating in the application or interview process, please feel free to let us know.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Bellingham, WA 98225: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Education:

• Associate (Required)

Experience:

• Mental health counseling: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)
• Certified Recovery Specialist (Preferred)

Work Location: One location