Department DescriptionThe Outpatient Competency Restoration Program (OCRP) provides timely and effective outpatient competency restoration services to individuals order to this program by the court. This program works closely with the Health Care Authority as well as DSHS Forensic Navigators and other community providers in an effort to support individuals in a community setting. This position provides direct clinical services to clients including working with client individually in the office and in the community as well as co-facilitating groups. The OCRP team is a great opportunity for recent graduates due to the small caseload size, collaborative treatment and interventions, and clinical supervision. Be part of one of the only OCRP programs in the State of Washington!Peer Counselors are individuals who have experienced mental illness themselves and are on their own recovery journey. They are well grounded in their own recovery and model competency in ongoing coping skills. They help clients identify goals that promote recovery and assist them in identifying services and activities to help reach these goals. Assist clients in obtaining, maintaining, and/or using appropriate mental health, general health, and other community resources relevant to their goals. Provide peer counseling, outreach, crisis intervention assistance, stabilization assistance; assist and support use of medical, community and natural supports, and facilitate psycho-education groups/classes. All services are provided under the supervision of a Mental Health Professional. Essential Functions Serves as a "recovery coach" to clients, collaborating with the client and their clinician to develop an effective Service Plan to support the client's goals and clinical Treatment Plan. Assists clinical staff in providing crisis and stabilization services to clients. Assures that clinical documentation, written and online, is completed in a timely, accurate manner. Completes progress notes on time for each service providing a clear, concise description of the client's progress towards recovery goals. Practices effective caseload management in ways that meets productivity expectations. Completes administrative documentation in a timely and accurate manner. Secondary Functions The following General Competency Expectations promote Trauma Informed Care by empowering others, helping to create an environment which is physically and psychologically safe, and by modeling and encouraging cultural sensitivity in the workplace. Trauma Informed Care principals can be addressed in any of the general competencies below. Participation in monthly OCRP staffing meetings with system partners and DSHS and in other meetings with HCA and DSHS programs as requested. Participate in Agency, County, and State staffing and clinical reviews as requested. Attend all Program and Agency mandated trainings and meetings. May perform special projects as needed. Job Scope Enhanced Peer Counselor works semi-independently under the supervision of a Mental Health Professional in a highly competent and professional manner. Work involves a significant variety of non-routine tasks of moderate complexity which are guided by formal policies and general procedures. Communication / Customer Contacts This position involves a high frequency of communication, in various forms, verbal and written, with clients, other staff, and community partners. Must communicate on a regular and timely basis with supervisors, other staff, consumers, their families and community supports, and with professionals outside the agency. Must also abide by all confidentiality laws and pertinent codes of conduct. Use the computer system to send and receive email, to write reports, to schedule and complete clinical transactions. Utilizes voice mail and email on a regular basis, and responds to those contacts in a timely manner. Knowledge and Skills Knowledge of mental disorders and substance abuse issues Effective counseling skills, Ability to assess and teach independent living skills, Good interpersonal communication skills and Basic computer skills Prefer knowledge of Pierce County public mental health system, criminal justice system, community resources, and recovery-based and trauma-informed models of care. Well-developed skills in managing time, priorities, and paperwork; excellent written and oral communication skills Must be able to work effectively in a team environment and the ability to collaborate effectively with external partners Understanding of the importance of clear, professional boundaries, and maintenance of such Cultural competency Education and/or Experience Requires a high school diploma/GED and two years' relevant experience. Prefer an AA in a social services related field. Other combinations of education and experience that provide the required familiarity and skills may be considered. Must be eligible for a Washington State Department of Health Agency Affiliated Counselor. Must be or commit to becoming certified as a Peer Counselor by the State Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery within one year of employment (see below).Peer Counselor RequirementsSelf-identify as a consumer who is receiving or has received mental health services. Demonstrate having been well-grounded in mental health recovery for at least one year. Pass a WA State criminal background check (no recent serious convictions). Complete specialized training approved by the State of WA and passing a written and oral State exam. The training and exam are free. Job ConditionsMust be able to drive a car; possess a good driving record; provide proof of auto insurance; be able to work both in and out of the office and go into clients' residences, which may require climbing stairs and walking on uneven terrain. Must be able to speak and hear at normal conversational levels. Must be able to pass the background check in order to be able to see clients in the Pierce County Jail.#LI-JG1

Position Type: Full-Time Regular
Full Time Employee: Yes
Primary Shift: Day
Work Schedule: Day shift

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