Y.A.P.A. Apartment Living Program Inc·Mohnton, Pennsylvania
The Certified Peer Specialist provides mentorship and support to individuals with behavioral health and substance use disorders using a person-centered approach. They facilitate skill-building groups, assist with vocational training, and collaborate with treatment teams to implement recovery plans.
To empower individuals with behavioral health conditions, substance use disorders, and/or developmental disabilities to achieve the lives of their choosing in the community.
Title: Certified Peer/Recovery Specialist I, II, III
Supervisor: Program Director
Summary of
The Certified Peer Specialist (CPS)/ Recovery Specialist (CRS) supports individuals within the program by partnering around challenges that can come with symptoms of Mental Health and/or substance use diagnosis.
Through utilization of the WRAP plan and a Person-Centered approach, the CPS/CRS will help empower the Member to identify and work towards their Blue-Sky goals.
By providing unconditional and nonjudgmental listening while also supporting the utilization of skills needed for the member to begin creating a higher quality of life, the CPS/CRS serves as a peer mentor to those they serve.
The CPS/CRS provides opportunities for individuals to direct their own recovery plan and support, build self-worth, wellness, empowerment, and self-advocacy.
The CPS/CRS will promote and contribute to the development of a healing culture of recovery and hope within the program and agency.
Participate in multidisciplinary treatment team and will support and implement interventions and directives as directed by the Team.
Always demonstrate compassion and concern when supporting a Member through embracing Project Transition/PCS Mental Health’s Mission and Core Values.
Approach Member engagement from a non-judgmental stance understanding that a Member’s behavior is driven by experience, which may include trauma.
Treat and speak to Members with supportive kindness even when a Member demonstrates intense behavioral or emotional actions. Staff will show Members dignity and respect for their values and lifestyles.
Seek out appropriate support, consultation with Clinician, NP, or Psychiatrist (if applicable), in conjunction with the Program Director or obtain supervision, when they are uncertain about how to respond or support a Member effectively.
Report back to the Treatment Team any observations of Member behavior that suggests Member may need additional treatment interventions and/or support.
Engage with all external parties/ individuals with professionalism and with a positive customer service approach, understanding that they are always representing the organization.
An understanding of an agreement to value the concepts of a Trauma Informed and Trauma Empowered workplace.
Physical
Requirements: This position requires the ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 20 lbs. An essential function of this role involves the application of physical restraint techniques in emergency situations to prevent immediate harm to the Members or others, requiring specific training in crisis de-escalation and proper restraint methods, along with detailed incident reporting as per facility policy and regulatory guidelines.
All Employees have access to our Employee Assistance Program
We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
Candidates must have a high school diploma and valid CPS/CRS certification, along with a clean driving record. A bachelor's degree is preferred, and the ability to perform physical restraint techniques is required.
Market context
In Pennsylvania, Certified Peer Specialist roles are commonly tied to behavioral health, recovery, and community support programs, where employers look for lived experience alongside formal certification. This role is competitive because candidates must meet both the state-approved Peer Specialist Certification requirement and the experience or education threshold, while also aligning with recovery-based eligibility criteria. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly confirm fit, then gather proof of certification, education, and work history before applying.
Clinician/Therapist
Clinician/Therapist
Certified Peer Specialist