Anew Behavioral Health·Akron, Ohio
Provide one-on-one and group peer support to individuals with substance use disorders using lived experience to encourage sobriety. Assist clients in developing recovery plans and connecting them with essential community resources like housing and healthcare.
The Peer Support Specialist for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) provides crucial support to individuals in recovery from substance use issues. Utilizing personal experience with addiction and recovery, the Peer Support Specialist offers guidance, encouragement, and empathy to clients, helping them achieve and maintain sobriety. The position involves providing peer support in individual and group settings, assisting with the development of recovery plans, and linking clients to additional resources as needed.
Provide one-on-one peer support to individuals with substance use disorders, utilizing lived experience to establish trust and encourage hope. Assist clients in identifying and setting recovery goals, offering emotional support, and helping them navigate challenges in their recovery process. Facilitate peer recovery groups or support meetings, encouraging clients to share experiences and support each other. Act as a role model for individuals in recovery, promoting healthy coping strategies, decision-making, and positive lifestyle changes. Help clients access necessary resources, such as housing, employment, healthcare, and social services, by linking them to appropriate community agencies and resources. Assist with the development of individualized recovery plans, ensuring clients understand the steps they need to take to maintain sobriety and well-being. Collaborate with clinical teams to ensure clients receive comprehensive care, including therapy, counseling, and medical treatment. Provide education about the recovery process, coping skills, relapse prevention, and maintaining sobriety. Encourage clients to actively participate in support groups, 12-step programs, and other recovery-focused activities. Support clients in identifying and managing triggers, high-risk situations, and cravings. Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential records of interactions with clients, documenting progress and any changes in treatment or recovery status. Participate in case meetings with clinical staff to ensure continuity of care and to update progress on recovery goals. Track and report on client outcomes, contributing to program evaluation and improvement. Work closely with the clinical team, including counselors, therapists, and case managers, to ensure clients receive comprehensive, holistic care. Participate in regular supervision meetings and team training to enhance skills and maintain compliance with program standards. Other duties as assigned.
The Peer Support Specialist does not supervise.
The Peer Support Specialist reports to the Operations Manager/Assigned Supervisor.
Lived experience in recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) or addiction is required. Peer Support Specialist certification (e.g., Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, CPRS, or similar) preferred or must be obtained within [X months] of hire. Knowledge of the 12-step program and other recovery methodologies. Strong interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills. Ability to maintain professional boundaries while offering empathy and support. Ability to work with diverse populations, including individuals with complex needs. Basic knowledge of community resources for individuals in recovery (housing, employment, legal, healthcare, etc.).
A High school diploma with experience noted below is required. An associate’s degree in a Healthcare related field is preferred.
Certification: None Required
Experience working in a behavioral health or substance use disorder treatment setting. Familiarity with trauma-informed care principles and practices. Experience facilitating group support or recovery meetings. Bilingual in [language] (if applicable).
Requires sitting for long periods of time, viewing computer monitors, and keyboarding and must be able to lift 20 pounds.
Must pass all Federal and State background checks. Other background checks will be conducted for licensures and certifications according to company policy.
Flexible schedule based on availability.
This position does not offer benefits.
Requires lived experience in recovery from substance use disorder and a high school diploma. Peer Support Specialist certification is preferred or must be obtained after hire.
Market context
Behavioral health roles in Ohio are typically in steady demand as employers seek clinicians who can support outpatient, community, and integrated care settings. These positions are competitive because they often require a master’s degree and a valid clinical license, and candidates should note that the requirements and benefits here are AI-summarized from the original job description to save research time. Before applying, confirm licensure fit and prepare examples of direct client care, crisis response, or care coordination.
