Peer Support Specialist

Recovery is a journey, and sometimes the most powerful support comes from someone who has walked a similar path.

As a Peer Support Specialist at Valleywise Health, you will use your lived experience, knowledge, and passion for helping others to inspire hope, build resilience, and support individuals living with serious mental illness on their recovery journey.

In this rewarding role, you will serve as a mentor, advocate, coach, and trusted partner, helping program participants develop the skills, confidence, and support systems needed to achieve meaningful, lasting recovery. Working as part of a multidisciplinary behavioral health team, you will help individuals find their voice, make informed choices, and connect with the resources that support their goals and independence.

Hourly Pay Range: $21.34 - $31.48

Why This Role Matters

At Valleywise Health, we believe recovery is possible for everyone. Peer Support Specialists play a unique role in helping individuals see what is possible, overcome challenges, and build fulfilling lives in their communities.

Your personal recovery experience and ability to connect authentically with others can make a life-changing difference for those seeking hope, stability, and empowerment.

What You'll Do

Empower Recovery

• Provide individual, family, and group peer support services.

• Share lived experience in a professional and recovery-focused manner to encourage hope and resilience.

• Support individuals in identifying personal goals and creating a path toward long-term recovery.

• Promote self-advocacy, self-determination, and informed decision-making.

Coach, Mentor & Advocate

• Serve as a positive role model and recovery mentor.

• Help participants navigate behavioral health and community support systems.

• Assist individuals and families in understanding available services and resources.

• Encourage engagement in treatment, recovery activities, employment, education, and community involvement.

Build Meaningful Connections

• Connect members with community resources, services, and natural support systems.

• Engage family members and support networks to strengthen recovery outcomes.

• Help individuals develop skills that support independent living and community participation.

• Provide services in community settings, homes, and workplaces based on participant needs.

Collaborate with the Care Team

• Partner with clinicians and multidisciplinary team members to support individualized recovery plans.

• Contribute valuable peer perspectives during care planning and service coordination.

• Support members in maximizing their choices, preferences, and participation in services.

Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required.

Experience:

• Prior personal or professional experience working with adults living with serious mental illness that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for this role.

Specialized Training:

• Current certification as a Peer Support Specialist through an ADHS/DBHS-approved Peer Support Employment Training Program.

Certification & Licensure Requirements:

• Valid Arizona driver's license in good standing.

• Must maintain Arizona-required minimum automobile insurance coverage.

• Must obtain an Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card within 90 days of employment.

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required within three (3) months of hire. American Heart Association (AHA) certification preferred.

• Must meet Valleywise Health Vehicle Use Policy (VUP) driving eligibility requirements.

• Must be at least 21 years of age or otherwise meet Arizona Administrative Code requirements.

What Makes You Successful

We're looking for compassionate individuals who are passionate about recovery, empowerment, and helping others achieve their goals.

The Ideal Candidate Will:

• Believe in recovery-oriented and person-centered care.

• Demonstrate empathy, compassion, and respect for diverse experiences.

• Build trusting relationships through authenticity and encouragement.

• Be comfortable working independently while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team.

• Advocate for participant choice, dignity, and self-determination.

• Thrive in community-based settings and adapt to changing participant needs.