Certified Intentional Peer Support Specialist (CIPSS) Statewide, Maine

The Morrison Center is seeking a Certified Intentional Peer Support Specialist (CIPSS) to join our team in Scarborough, Maine. The Certified Intentional Peer Support Specialist (CIPSS) is a member of the Adult Behavioral Health Home (BHH) team who utilizes their lived experience of recovery from mental health and/or substance use challenges to support individuals in achieving their wellness, recovery, and life goals. Through intentional peer support principles, the CIPSS fosters hope, empowerment, self-advocacy, community integration, and person-centered recovery planning.

Job Summary

The CIPSS works collaboratively with BHH care team members, community providers, and natural supports to assist members in navigating services, increasing self-management skills, and improving overall health and wellness outcomes. The CIPSS provides non-clinical peer support services and does not perform clinical assessments, diagnosis, counseling, or other licensed clinical functions.

Qualifications

• Current Maine Certified Intentional Peer Support Specialist (CIPSS) certification in good standing or ability to obtain within nine months of hire
• Lived experience with mental health and/or substance use recovery and willingness to utilize that experience appropriately in a professional setting
• Knowledge of recovery-oriented and person-centered practices
• Understanding of recovery principles, trauma-informed care, and resilience-based practices
• Ability to engage individuals experiencing mental health, substance use, and co-occurring challenges
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills
• Ability to establish professional boundaries while utilizing lived experience effectively
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
• Experience working in behavioral health, substance use treatment, community support, or healthcare settings
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations

Responsibilities and Scope

• Provide individual and group peer support services utilizing the principles of Intentional Peer Support (IPS).
• Share lived experience appropriately to inspire hope and promote recovery.
• Support members in identifying personal strengths, goals, and recovery pathways.
• Assist members in developing self-advocacy skills and increasing independence.
• Encourage engagement in behavioral health, primary care, and wellness services.
• Participate as an active member of the Behavioral Health Home interdisciplinary team.
• Assist members in accessing community resources including housing, employment, education, transportation, financial assistance, and social supports.
• Build trusting relationships with members who may be difficult to engage in services.
• Complete timely and accurate documentation in the electronic health record (EHR).
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, agency policies, and applicable state and federal regulations.

About The Morrison Center

The Morrison Center is a Maine-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children, adults, and families through a wide range of behavioral health, developmental, and community-based services. Through compassionate care and a person-centered approach, The Morrison Center helps individuals reach their goals and improve their quality of life.