Peer Recovery Specialist or CPRS - SMVF Grant

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Full Time Professional Amherst, VA, US

Salary Range: $29,250.00 To $45,338.00 Annually

Hours:

full-time (37.5 hours per week)

Location:

Lynchburg, VA, 24501

• Quality behavior health training with Central Virginia company in operation for 50+ years
• Retirement plan through Virginia State Retirement System (VRS)
• Generous paid vacation time

The Peer Recovery Specialist or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist functions as a role model and coach to those seeking personal wellness and long-term recovery by adhering to professional ethics, demonstrating competencies, using effective coping skills, serving as an advocate, using best practices and providing information and referral. This is an entry-level position and will be required to complete all required training and supervision hours to apply for certification within one year of hire date.

Services include one‑on‑one peer mentoring, peer‑led support groups, telephone outreach, assisting clients in accessing community resources, services and affiliation with recovery‑supported social activities. Some evening and weekend hours.

The ideal candidate for this position would have military experience and will work with service members, veterans, and their families (SMVF).

• High School Diploma / GED
• At least one continuous year of sustained recovery for persons having lived experience with mental illness or substance use.
• Prefer military experience.

Knowledge of the nature of the recovery process including the use of established standardized mental health, substance use, and co‑occurring processes;
Knowledge of basic problem solving strategies to support individuals in self‑directed recovery;
Basic knowledge of multiple pathways to recovery; signs and symptoms of mental health and/or substance use challenges and strategies to address these symptoms;
Ability to identify an individual’s need for resources, services, and other supports;
Ability to coordinate services with diverse public and private providers;
Ability to utilize personal experience to support others in recovery. Ability to work as a member of a team and maintain effective, professional working relationships with individuals within the agency as well as those in the community. Ability to work independently, performing the duties of the position under general supervision. Ability to engage in and sustain ongoing, professional relationships with individuals receiving services through appropriate boundary setting.

Knowledge surrounding the operation and care of computer equipment and cellular devices. Knowledge of basic computer skills and the ability to efficiently utilize internet search to identify resources relevant for peer support.

Ability to participate in and successfully pass behavioral intervention training; includes both verbal de‑escalation skills and physical skills techniques to be utilized with consumers as needed. Ability to drive and must possess a valid driver’s license. Willing and available to work modified schedules (weekends, holidays, etc.) as required.

We’re proud to offer some of the best benefits options in Central Virginia. Participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) is exclusively for public service workers in Virginia, while several options exist for life, health, dental, and vision insurance. Emphasis on work‑life balance means a generous annual leave policy ensuring time for wellness with separate time allocated for sick leave and additionally for paid holidays.

Stay active with Horizon’s annual wellness programs and various opportunities to interact with the community through the year. Horizon’s clinical sites are NHSC/HRSA‑approved for clinical student loan repayment, and qualify for both the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and the Behavioral Health State Loan Repayment (BHLRP) programs. If you are interested in continuing your education, working at Horizon qualifies you to receive discounts at some local universities.

Horizon Behavioral Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).