Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) - DeKalb Regional Crisis Center – Decatur, GAAt the DeKalb Regional Crisis Center, we provide critical crisis intervention, stabilization, and withdrawal management services to adults navigating mental health challenges and substance use disorders. Our center offers a full continuum of care, from walk-in evaluations and temporary observation to short-term stabilization stays that include crisis counseling and discharge planning. We're looking for Certified Peer Specialists (CPS/CARES) who are ready to bring their lived experience and training to help others in their recovery journey.
Your Role:
As a Certified Peer Specialist, you'll use your personal recovery experience to empower others as they navigate crisis situations. You'll be a beacon of hope and resilience, supporting clients as they begin the path toward stabilization and healing. You'll serve as an advocate, motivator, and resource navigator — showing that recovery is not only possible, it's real. Your story matters. Make it part of someone else's recovery.
Key Responsibilities:- Provide early engagement, orientation, and emotional support to clients during crisis intake
- Lead and co-facilitate recovery-focused groups, including topics like WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plans), discharge planning, and community resources
- Offer peer-driven counseling, skill-building, and problem-solving support
- Work closely with clinical teams, discharge planners, nurses, and other staff to ensure holistic, compassionate care
- Support individuals in developing self-directed recovery goals
- Assist with Georgia Supportive Housing Surveys and aftercare follow-upAccurately document client interactions and progress using electronic medical records
- Educate families and caregivers on recovery models and help advocate for client-centered care
- Uphold the CPS Code of Ethics and maintain a trauma-informed, recovery-oriented approach at all times
Requirements:- Georgia Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) or Certified Addiction Recovery Empowerment Specialist (CARES)
- At least 6 months of experience working or volunteering as a peer support specialist
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Basic computer and documentation skills
- Understanding of recovery principles, client engagement, and care coordination
- Preferred 2+ years of experience in a crisis or behavioral health setting
- Experience facilitating group sessions and building individualized recovery plans
Working Conditions:- Work is performed in a fast-paced crisis environment
- Must be able to complete CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute) training
- Regular standing, walking, and occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs) required
- May interact with individuals exhibiting high-risk or unpredictable behavior
What We're Looking For:
We value compassionate communicators, positive role models, and team players with strong interpersonal skills and a passion for recovery. You should be able to relate to people from diverse backgrounds, stay calm under pressure, and inspire hope through your example. Reliable transportation and a commitment to professionalism are essential.
Why Join Us?- Be part of a mission-driven team that saves lives and supports recovery
- Work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment
- Gain valuable experience in crisis and stabilization services
- Make a lasting impact through lived experience and peer support
Ready to help others find their way through crisis? Apply now to become a Certified Peer Specialist at DeKalb Regional Crisis Center.
Pre-employment drug screening and successful completion of a criminal history background check is required.
Claratel Behavioral Health participates in E-Verify (Company ID: 226305)
Claratel Behavioral Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Candidates who may require an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act or similar law to perform the essential functions of this job are encouraged to contact Human Resources at hrhelp@claratel.org.
