Peer Support Specialist at Focused Addiction Recovery in Wallace, NC

At FAR, we offer comprehensive mental health and addiction treatment services in North Carolina. Our treatment center utilizes a variety of evidence-based and holistic therapy methods to help individuals overcome drug and alcohol addiction.

We believe in modern best practices and, therefore, employ people who want to be at the cutting edge of this industry. We believe everyone should have an equal opportunity to lead a successful and comfortable life, including both the patients we treat and the staff we employ. We believe in second chances and a caring approach to all we do.

If you are interested in a rewarding role in the substance use treatment industry, we would love to have you apply.

Position Title: Peer Support Specialist

Reports To: Qualified Professional / Director of Facilities

Position Overview:

The Peer Support Specialist (PSS) is a person with lived experience in addiction and recovery who provides structured peer support services to individuals receiving treatment at Focused Addiction Recovery (FAR). The PSS serves as a mentor, advocate, and recovery role model, helping clients build coping skills, navigate systems of care, and sustain long-term recovery. Services are delivered from a recovery-oriented, trauma-informed, and person-centered perspective and must align with agency policies, Medicaid standards, and HIPAA confidentiality requirements. The Peer Support Specialist operates within the North Carolina Peer Support scope of practice and under appropriate clinical supervision.

Job Functions:

· Provide one-on-one peer support services to clients in early recovery.

· Facilitate recovery-based group sessions and peer support meetings.

· Assist clients in developing individualized recovery and wellness plans.

· Model healthy coping skills, emotional regulation, and positive communication.

· Help clients identify triggers, relapse warning signs, and protective factors.

· Connect clients with community resources including housing, employment, education, and healthcare.

· Support clients during crisis situations while following agency protocols and notifying clinical staff as appropriate.

· Document services in accordance with agency policy, Medicaid standards, and required timelines.

· Collaborate with clinical staff, case managers, and leadership team to support coordinated care.

· Promote a culture of hope, accountability, empowerment, and recovery.

· Maintain professional boundaries and adhere to ethical standards.

· Participate in supervision, staff meetings, and required trainings.

· Maintain confidentiality and secure client information per HIPAA standards.

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Qualification Requirements:

· We are looking for a dynamic professional who meets the following prerequisites:

· Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) credential or state-recognized peer support certification required.

· Minimum of 1–2 years of sustained recovery.

· High School Diploma or GED required; Associate or Bachelor’s degree preferred.

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

· Ability to maintain professional boundaries and ethical conduct.

· Basic computer and documentation skills.

· Ability to pass background check and drug screening.

Competencies:

· To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

· Trauma-informed care principles.

· Motivational interviewing awareness and recovery coaching skills.

· Cultural humility and sensitivity.

· Ethical decision-making and professional boundaries.

· Confidentiality and HIPAA compliance.

· Crisis de-escalation and emotional support skills.

· Team collaboration and interdisciplinary communication.

· Ability to model recovery and instill hope.

Language Skills:

Ability to read and interpret agency policies and program materials. Ability to write service notes and basic reports. Ability to effectively communicate with individuals served, families, staff, and community partners. Effective English-speaking skill required.

Reasoning Ability:

Ability to identify barriers to recovery, problem-solve, and support individuals in identifying practical solutions aligned with recovery goals.

Computer Skills:

Knowledge of Electronic Medical Records, Internet software, email communication, and basic word processing systems.

Work Environment:

· Residential and/or outpatient treatment setting.

· May include evening or weekend hours.

· Active engagement with clients in group rooms, community outings, and program activities.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to perform essential job functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

· Ability to stand, walk, and engage in facility activities.

· Ability to respond appropriately during crisis situations.

· Occasional lifting and movement of up to 20 pounds.