Behavioral Health Peer Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of mental health, the need for Behavioral Health Peer Specialists is more critical than ever.

As understanding and awareness surrounding mental health issues grow, so does the demand for compassionate individuals who can provide support and guidance based on their own lived experiences.

But what exactly is expected from a Behavioral Health Peer Specialist?

Whether you are:

• An individual exploring this fulfilling career path,
• A hiring manager striving to identify the ideal candidate,
• Or merely interested in the intricacies of this role,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a comprehensive and customizable Behavioral Health Peer Specialist job description template, tailored for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Behavioral Health Peer Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Behavioral Health Peer Specialists use their lived experience of mental health recovery to provide support and assistance to individuals with similar struggles.

They play a crucial role in helping others navigate their own paths to recovery.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Providing emotional support and understanding to individuals facing mental health challenges
• Sharing personal experiences of recovery to inspire hope and provide practical guidance
• Assisting individuals in identifying their personal goals for recovery
• Helping individuals develop and implement a personalized recovery plan
• Linking individuals to community resources and services, such as housing, education, and employment
• Advocating for individuals’ rights and preferences in treatment planning meetings
• Facilitating group sessions or workshops on topics related to mental health and recovery
• Documenting interactions and progress notes in a confidential manner
• Working as part of a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive care
• Maintaining ongoing personal and professional development through training and education

 

Behavioral Health Peer Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a compassionate and experienced Behavioral Health Peer Specialist to join our team.

The ideal candidate will have personal experience with mental health or substance use recovery.

The role involves using this lived experience to provide support, encouragement, and resources to individuals who are currently facing similar challenges.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide emotional support and guidance to individuals undergoing mental health or substance use recovery
• Share personal recovery experiences and coping strategies in a supportive manner
• Assist in identifying recovery goals and developing individualized recovery plans
• Facilitate and co-facilitate support group meetings
• Provide education on mental health, substance use disorders, and the recovery process
• Connect individuals with community resources and services
• Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team to best support the individual’s recovery
• Maintain documentation of interactions and progress

 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required. Some college or further education in social work, psychology, or related field preferred
• Peer Specialist Certification or willingness to obtain
• Personal lived experience with mental health or substance use recovery
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Understanding and respect for the principles of recovery and the importance of peer support in the recovery process
• Ability to maintain professionalism and boundaries
• Experience facilitating groups preferred
• Basic computer skills for record-keeping and reporting

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Behavioral Health Peer Specialist
• Work Environment: This role is based in a clinical setting. Some travel may be required for community outreach or home visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Behavioral Health Program Director or Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications, personal recovery experience, and why you are interested in the role of a Peer Specialist to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Behavioral Health Peer Specialist Do?

Behavioral Health Peer Specialists, also known as Peer Support Specialists, are individuals who have personally experienced mental health or substance use challenges and recovery.

They are trained and certified to support others experiencing similar struggles.

Their primary role is to provide emotional support, share personal experiences and knowledge, and guide individuals through the recovery process.

They often work in mental health facilities, hospitals, or community centers.

Behavioral Health Peer Specialists use their personal experiences to build trusting relationships with clients, showing them that recovery is possible and inspiring hope.

They may assist clients in developing recovery plans, identifying coping strategies, and navigating the healthcare system.

They also often facilitate group meetings or workshops, where individuals can share their experiences, struggles, and achievements in a supportive environment.

Furthermore, Behavioral Health Peer Specialists play a vital role in advocating for the rights and needs of individuals with mental health or substance use challenges.

They work closely with healthcare professionals, ensuring that the client’s voice is heard and their needs are met.

 

Behavioral Health Peer Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Behavioral Health Peer Specialist should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Experience and understanding of behavioral health issues, recovery and the mental health system due to personal lived experience.
• Ability to empathize and build a rapport with individuals who are struggling with behavioral health issues.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively connect with a diverse group of individuals.
• Ability to provide peer support and mentorship, sharing personal experiences and insights about recovery in a helpful and supportive manner.
• Knowledge of local resources, services, and supports for individuals with behavioral health issues.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and respect for clients’ privacy and individual needs.
• Good problem-solving skills to help clients overcome challenges and barriers to recovery.
• Effective organizational and documentation skills for maintaining accurate records.

 

Behavioral Health Peer Specialist Experience Requirements

To become a Behavioral Health Peer Specialist, individuals usually need to have lived through their own experiences with mental health or substance use recovery.

This personal experience is crucial as it allows them to connect and empathize with the individuals they support.

While specific requirements may vary from one agency to another, all peer specialists should have completed a state-approved training and certification program for peer support.

These programs can provide both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in peer counseling and advocacy.

Entry-level Behavioral Health Peer Specialists may have 1 to 2 years of experience in roles such as mental health counseling, social work, or substance use counseling.

This experience often comes from internships or part-time roles in community or healthcare settings.

More experienced peer specialists, typically those with over 3 years of experience, might have worked in more complex roles in mental health or substance use recovery support.

They may have developed specialized skills in areas like crisis intervention, group facilitation, or case management.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have gained leadership experience, managing peer support programs or supervising other peer specialists.

They may be ready for more senior roles within behavioral health agencies or healthcare organizations.

 

Behavioral Health Peer Specialist Education and Training Requirements

A Behavioral Health Peer Specialist typically requires a high school diploma or a General Education Development (GED) equivalent as a minimum educational qualification.

However, many employers prefer candidates who have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field.

In addition to formal education, the candidate must also complete a state-approved certification program for Peer Specialists.

This program focuses on teaching the principles of recovery, the process of change, and the skills required to support others on their recovery journey.

Following the completion of the certification program, the candidate needs to pass a state exam to obtain a license to practice as a Behavioral Health Peer Specialist.

The license must be renewed periodically, which often requires continuing education credits.

Therefore, ongoing learning and development are key aspects of this profession.

Work experience or personal experience with behavioral health issues, addiction, or recovery can also be very advantageous in this role.

Advanced training in areas such as trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and cultural competency can further enhance a candidate’s skills and effectiveness in this role.

 

Behavioral Health Peer Specialist Salary Expectations

A Behavioral Health Peer Specialist can expect to earn an average salary of $38,500 (USD) per year.

The exact earnings can fluctuate depending on factors such as years of experience in the field, level of certification, and the state in which they are employed.

 

Behavioral Health Peer Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Behavioral Health Peer Specialist need?

Behavioral Health Peer Specialists should possess strong communication and active listening skills as they will need to engage empathetically with clients.

They should also have a good understanding of mental health disorders and treatments.

Furthermore, they need to have problem-solving abilities, and personal resilience, given their own lived experiences with mental health.

 

What are the qualifications required to become a Behavioral Health Peer Specialist?

Generally, a Behavioral Health Peer Specialist should have lived experience with a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both.

They should also have completed a relevant training program and obtained certification as a Peer Specialist.

Some states require a high school diploma or equivalent for this role.

 

What should you look for in a Behavioral Health Peer Specialist resume?

A Behavioral Health Peer Specialist’s resume should highlight their personal experience with mental health or substance use recovery, which is crucial for this role.

It should also detail any professional training or certification they have received in peer support.

Skills such as empathy, active listening, and effective communication should also be evident.

 

What qualities make a good Behavioral Health Peer Specialist?

A good Behavioral Health Peer Specialist should be empathetic, patient, and understanding, able to provide support and guidance without judgment.

They should have good interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport with clients.

Good problem-solving skills are also beneficial, as they’ll often need to help clients navigate challenges related to their mental health or substance use recovery.

 

What is the role of a Behavioral Health Peer Specialist in a care team?

Behavioral Health Peer Specialists play a unique role in care teams by using their lived experience to connect with clients on a personal level.

They provide emotional support, share knowledge and coping strategies, and help clients navigate the mental health or substance use recovery process.

They also work collaboratively with other team members, including therapists, social workers, and medical professionals, to coordinate care for their clients.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the complex and rewarding role of a behavioral health peer specialist.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about offering advice.

It’s about shaping healthier futures, one conversation at a time.

With our handy behavioral health peer specialist job description template and authentic examples, you’re primed to take the next step.

But why not go further?

Explore more with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to creating detailed job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every conversation contributes to a bigger change.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become a Behavioral Health Peer Specialist (Complete Guide)

The Robot Job Rally: Careers That AI is Co-opting

Career Buzzwords: The Most Sought-After Jobs of the Year

Weird Workforce: The Most Unusual Jobs in Existence

Taking Chances for a Living: Inside the World of High-Stakes Jobs