Certified Youth Peer Specialist

Purpose of Position

The Certified Peer Specialist provides recovery-oriented support services to youth participating in the Juvenile Office’s Outpatient Clinical Program. Drawing from lived experience and formal peer certification, this role supports youth in building resilience, developing pro-social skills, and engaging in behavioral health treatment.

The Certified Peer Specialist facilitates group services and provides individual peer support, working collaboratively with the clinical team to promote positive youth development, reduce recidivism, and support long-term recovery and stability.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned. 

Peer Support Services

• Provide individual peer support services to youth, focusing on engagement, motivation, and skill development. 
• Utilize lived experience (as appropriate and within ethical guidelines) to build trust, model recovery, and instill hope. 
• Assist youth in identifying strengths, setting goals, and developing personalized recovery and success plans. 
• Support youth in navigating challenges related to behavioral health, substance use, family dynamics, and system involvement. 

Group Facilitation

• Facilitate and co-facilitate peer-led groups focused on topics such as: 
  • Recovery and relapse prevention 
  • Emotional regulation and coping skills 
  • Life skills and decision-making 
  • Healthy relationships and communication 
• Create a safe, inclusive, and engaging group environment that encourages youth voice and participation.  
• Collaborate with clinicians to ensure group content aligns with treatment goals and evidence-informed practices. 

Engagement and Mentorship

• Develop supportive, mentoring relationships with youth to encourage consistent program participation.  
• Provide encouragement and accountability to help youth follow through with treatment and court expectations. 
• Assist youth in building pro-social connections and community supports. 

Care Coordination and Team Collaboration

• Work closely with clinicians, probation officers, and program staff to support integrated care delivery. 
• Participate in treatment team meetings, providing insight into youth engagement and progress. 
• Assist in connecting youth to community-based recovery and support resources. 

Family and Community Support

• Support family engagement by reinforcing communication, understanding, and recovery principles.  
• Assist youth in transitioning to community-based supports, including peer networks and recovery resources.  

Documentation and Compliance

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of peer services in accordance with program and regulatory requirements. 
• Adhere to confidentiality standards (HIPAA) and ethical guidelines for peer support services. 
• Track service delivery, youth engagement, and outcomes as required. 

Professional Development

• Maintain active Certified Peer Specialist credential and complete required continuing education. 
• Participate in ongoing training related to trauma-informed care, adolescent development, and juvenile justice systems. 
• Engage in supervision and utilize feedback to strengthen service delivery.

Minimum Training and Experience Required to Perform Essential Job Functions     

Current certification as a Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) (Missouri credential preferred). 

Lived experience with recovery (mental health and/or substance use) required. 

Experience working with youth or young adults preferred.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage and motivate youth.

Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. 

Basic computer skills and ability to complete required documentation. 

Valid driver’s license preferred.