Peer Support Specialist, Fulltime, Second Shift

The main responsibilities of a Peer Support Specialist at UC Health include serving as a role model for individuals with mental health or substance use disorders, advocating for peers, providing information about recovery resources, and helping peers regain independence in their recovery process. This multifaceted role allows you to share your personal experiences while assisting others on their path to healing.

To be considered for the Peer Support Specialist role at UC Health, you must be a Certified Peer Recovery Supporter (PRS) with lived experience in recovery from mental health or substance use issues. In addition to certification, strong communication skills, empathy, and a commitment to advocating for peers are essential qualifications that will enable you to thrive in this supportive environment.

At UC Health, Peer Support Specialists work in a supportive and collaborative environment. You’ll be part of a dedicated team focusing on providing compassionate care and assistance to individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges. The workplace culture emphasizes inclusivity and encourages personal growth through interactions with peers and healthcare professionals alike.

Yes, UC Health offers training programs for Peer Support Specialists to ensure they are well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge. This training focuses on recovery principles, communication skills, and effective advocacy techniques, supporting your journey to become an exceptional Peer Support Specialist.

Working as a Peer Support Specialist at UC Health comes with numerous benefits, including competitive pay, comprehensive health benefits, and opportunities for professional development. Moreover, you'll experience the rewarding fulfillment of helping others in their recovery journeys while being part of a well-respected healthcare organization dedicated to patient care and community wellness.

When answering this question, highlight your lived experiences and how they have equipped you with unique insights and skills to support others. Share specific strategies you have used in your recovery and how they inform your approach to assisting your peers.

In your response, identify a few practical coping strategies such as mindfulness, journaling, or focusing on personal strengths. Speak about how you would encourage your peers to explore these strategies and find what works best for them.

Prepare an example of a situation where you used your advocacy skills effectively. Focus on the steps you took to understand the peer's needs and how you facilitated their access to necessary resources or support.

Emphasize the importance of empathy in building trust and creating a safe environment for peers. Discuss how demonstrating understanding can help peers feel validated in their experiences and empower them to pursue their recovery actively.

In your answer, discuss the significance of maintaining professional boundaries to foster a productive and respectful relationship. Share techniques you implement to ensure that you're offering support without compromising your own recovery process.

Address potential challenges such as managing your emotions while supporting others. Share how you would prepare to face these challenges by utilizing self-care strategies and seeking supportive supervision when needed.

Discuss your strategies for building rapport and establishing trust, as well as how to engage a resistant peer in dialogue. Explain the importance of patience and understanding in encouraging them to open up to potential support.

Highlight key aspects such as active listening, showing empathy, and offering non-judgmental feedback. Share how these elements contribute to fostering a supportive dialogue that empowers peers to share their concerns.

Articulate your vision for collaboration and support among team members. Discuss how your experiences and compassion can enhance the team's mission of providing excellent care while also fostering a positive, inclusive environment.

Share your aspirations to expand your knowledge of recovery practices, improve your advocacy skills, and develop stronger relationships within the team and with peers. Emphasize your commitment to personal and professional growth as part of UC Health.