Peer Support Specialist

**About Us**:
Peer Support Nova Scotia is a one-to-one peer support program, administered by Mental Health Innovations Inc. (N.S.), that provides non-judgmental emotional and social supports to persons receiving mental health and/or substance use care through Nova Scotia Health.

We're more than just a team - we're a community deeply dedicated to emotional and mental well-being. Our mission is to offer understanding and support, and we're looking for someone who shares our passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others.

**What We Offer**:
Comprehensive health care benefits

Generous paid time off

A caring and collaborative workplace culture

**Your New Role**:
We're seeking passionate individuals to join us in our mission to make a positive impact, especially in mental wellness, harm reduction and connecting to community support.

**Your Main Responsibilities**:
Work one-on-one with individuals to support them in the development and achievement of self-determination, personal empowerment, and their individual recovery goals.
- Inpatient Support: provide social and emotional support during admission
- Empathy and Understanding: Deliver support that respects the diversity and uniqueness of each individual’s situation, considering social, cultural, and geographic backgrounds.
- Transition Support: Assist in the transition from hospital to community, encouraging connections to community-based mental health and/or recovery services.
- Community Relations: Develop relationships with community organizations focused on mental health, harm reduction and peer support the matching of individuals with appropriate services.

**What Else?**
- Maintain up-to-date and clear record keeping and communication. Use strength-based, recovery supporting language in all notes and communications.
- Complete general administrative requirements in a timely manner and as requested. These admin requirements may be related to data gathering, recording of indicators, and/or other general organizational requirements.
- Manage day-to-day schedule.
- Attend and participate in meetings and conference calls, as required.

**What We’re Looking For**:

- A compassionate individual with a deep understanding of mental health and self-care principles.
- The ability to provide hope and support in acute care settings.
- Proficiency in digital communication tools for effective remote support.
- Excellent interpersonal skills for complex emotional environments.
- A self-motivated, responsible individual, comfortable with remote supervision.
- A commitment to continuous learning and growth.

**What You’ll Need**:

- Personal lived or living experience with mental health and/or substance use challenges.
- Have knowledge and experience with the process of recovery; have the ability to assess the possible risk of suicide or other thoughts of harm to self or others
- Two years’ experience as a peer supporter as well as strong experience forming cooperative relationships with clinicians, community organizations, and other stakeholders.
- Willingness to share this lived experience with peers/clients and other relevant parties, as appropriate.
- Access to daily use of a reliable vehicle is required, as public transportation does not meet the travel requirements of this role.
- Fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

**A note on Certifications**:
The Peer Support Canada Certification will be considered an asset. ASIST and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Certification will also be considered an asset.

**Anticipated Start Date**:Contract (Duration to be determined)

**Application Deadline**:Until Filled

**How to Apply**:
**Please submit your resume and a cover letter that speaks to your journey and why you feel drawn to this role. We’re excited to hear your story and how you believe you can contribute to our mission.**

**Equity Statement**:
**Benefits**:

- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Paid time off
- Vision care
- Flexible schedule
- Life insurance

**Schedule**:

- Monday to Friday
- Day shift
- Expected hours: 28 per week