Peer Counselor
AFH In Reach (AIR), Marc Healing Center (205-52700)
Non-Exempt
Union: Yes (except on-call staff)
Reports to: Program Manager
About the Role
The Peer Counselor provides recovery-focused peer support services under the supervision of the Program Manager. Services include assistance with stabilization, self-advocacy, development of natural supports, and strengthening community living skills to help individuals with behavioral health conditions achieve the highest level of independence and stability possible.

This role works closely with clients in community-based settings, including adult family homes and other residential facilities.
Key Responsibilities

• Provide peer support that validates clients' lived experiences and encourages active participation in recovery.
• Support clients in building confidence and voicing their perspectives to promote long-term success.
• Assist in treatment planning and help clients identify activities that contribute to recovery.
• Support implementation of services identified in treatment and crisis plans.
• Assist clients in identifying and accessing community and natural supports, including mental health and substance use treatment and peer groups.
• Provide reassurance and support to family members and natural supports.
• Engage in active listening and therapeutic peer engagement.
• Collaborate with team members to monitor symptoms and formulate recovery goals.
• Advocate for clients as appropriate.
• Utilize teachable moments to strengthen coping and daily living skills.
• Follow mandated reporting protocols.
• Complete accurate charting, coding, billing, and documentation within required timelines.
• Meet or exceed program key performance indicators.
• Participate in supervision and team meetings.
• Maintain required certifications and trainings.
• Safeguard protected health information in accordance with HIPAA and agency policies.
• Demonstrate cultural humility and commitment to Compass Health's Mission, Vision, Core Values, and Core Competencies.

Program-Specific Responsibilities

• Provide services based on treatment and crisis plans developed by the team.
• Deliver services in appropriate community locations, including adult family homes, skilled nursing facilities, and other residential or community-based settings.
• Meet with assigned clients weekly at minimum, unless otherwise authorized by supervisor.

What You Bring Education / Experience / Certifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; AA or BA preferred.
• Current credential as a Certified Peer Support Specialist or Certified Peer Support Specialist Trainee required.
• Lived experience with a behavioral health diagnosis required.
• Experience as a Peer Counselor preferred.
• Experience in home-based or facility-based settings preferred.
• Experience working with individuals with serious and persistent mental illness and/or substance use disorders preferred.
• Agency Affiliated Counselor application required upon hire if not already licensed/associate licensed through WA DOH.
• Valid Washington State Driver's License and appropriate insurance if applicable.
• Bilingual/bicultural applicants encouraged to apply.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Ability to work effectively with individuals with intensive and complex needs.
• Ability to engage in challenging situations while maintaining a solution-focused demeanor.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including professional documentation.
• Strong understanding of recovery principles.
• Knowledge of mental illness, substance use disorders, and community resources.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and partnership-building skills.
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment.
• General computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and electronic health records.
• Ability to pass pre-employment criminal background check (may include DSHS search).

What We Offer

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Paid holidays and personal choice holidays
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
• Professional development funds
• Education leave
• Supportive, mission-driven team environment

Physical Demands / Work Environment
This position primarily provides outreach in community settings, including homes, hospitals, medical facilities, schools, jails, and community organizations.

Duties require occasional lifting and/or moving up to 20 pounds and regular sitting, standing, walking, talking, and close vision. Noise levels are usually moderate.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Compass Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer, supporting equity regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or disability unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification.

Education

High School Diploma
Associate


Licenses & Certifications

Certified Peer Specialist
Agency Aff Coun-Registerd