Peer Support Advocate | SUD Clinic - Fargo, North Dakota

Role Overview

Sanford Health is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Peer Support Advocate to join our Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Clinic team in Fargo, North Dakota. As a Peer Support Advocate, you will play a crucial role in providing support and guidance to individuals navigating their recovery journey from mental illness or substance abuse. Your lived experience will be invaluable in fostering a client-centered approach, empowering patients to take ownership of their recovery and achieve lasting wellness.

This non-clinical role involves collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, behavioral health counselors, and support staff. You will work across the healthcare continuum to ensure safety, best practices, and high-quality standards of care are maintained. Your primary focus will be on coordinating recovery and self-management support for our patient population dealing with addictions, helping them through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

A Day in the Life

As a Peer Support Advocate, your day-to-day tasks will be varied and impactful. You'll spend time connecting with patients through telephone calls or in-person recovery coaching sessions, offering encouragement, sharing your personal experiences, and providing practical advice. You will regularly check in with patients to monitor their progress and provide ongoing support.

A significant aspect of your role will be connecting patients with essential social services available in the community. This may involve assisting them with housing, employment, transportation, or other resources that can support their recovery. You'll also empower patients to identify and articulate their personal goals and objectives, advocating for them within the care system and other relevant settings.

Throughout your day, you'll adhere to HIPAA compliance, maintaining patient confidentiality and privacy. You'll articulate the recovery process to patients, helping them develop self-directed plans for their wellness. Your ability to differentiate between counseling and peer support, and between treatment and recovery goals, will be essential in providing effective and appropriate guidance.

Why Fargo, North Dakota?

Fargo offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, making it an attractive place to live and work. With a thriving job market, affordable cost of living, and a strong sense of community, Fargo provides a welcoming environment for individuals and families alike.

The city boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and music venues. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of parks, trails, and recreational opportunities available throughout the year. Fargo's central location also provides easy access to other major cities and attractions in the region.

Sanford Health is deeply committed to the Fargo community, actively supporting local initiatives and organizations. Working in Fargo allows you to be part of a team that is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the community we serve.

Career Path

Sanford Health is committed to the growth and development of our employees. As a Peer Support Advocate, you'll have access to a variety of professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career. This role can be a stepping stone to positions such as:

• Senior Peer Support Advocate
• Behavioral Health Technician
• Case Manager
• Substance Abuse Counselor
• Program Coordinator

Sanford Health also offers leadership development programs for employees who are interested in pursuing management roles. We encourage our employees to take advantage of these opportunities to reach their full potential.

Salary & Benefits

Sanford Health offers a competitive salary and benefits package to attract and retain top talent. The starting rate for this position ranges from $16.50 to $26.50 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. In addition to competitive pay, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Paid time off (PTO) and vacation days
• Retirement plan with employer matching
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Professional development opportunities
• Continuing education and training
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance
• Wellness programs
• Employee discounts
• Tuition reimbursement
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
• Employee referral program

We are committed to providing our employees with a supportive and rewarding work environment.

Sanford Health Culture

At Sanford Health, we are guided by our core values of integrity, respect, innovation, teamwork, and excellence. We are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care to our patients and residents. We believe in fostering a culture of teamwork and collaboration, where employees are empowered to make a difference.

We are also committed to diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees and patients. We believe that our differences make us stronger, and we are dedicated to providing equal opportunities for all.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about helping others and have lived experience with mental illness or substance abuse, we encourage you to apply for the Peer Support Advocate position at Sanford Health. To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter through our online application system. Be sure to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications, and explain why you are interested in this role.

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request an accommodation for help with your online application, please call 1-877-673-0854 or send an email to talent@sanfordhealth.org.

FAQ

1. What are the minimum qualifications for this position? You must be at least 21 years of age, have a primary diagnosis of a mental illness, be a current or former consumer of mental health services, and have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
2. Is prior experience required? While prior experience in peer support is beneficial, it is not required. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about helping others and have lived experience with mental illness or substance abuse.
3. What kind of training will I receive? You will receive comprehensive training on peer support principles, recovery coaching techniques, and HIPAA compliance. You will also have ongoing opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
4. What is the work environment like? We foster a supportive and collaborative work environment where employees are valued and respected. You will be part of a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals who are dedicated to providing high-quality care to our patients.
5. What are the opportunities for advancement? Sanford Health is committed to the growth and development of our employees. As a Peer Support Advocate, you'll have access to a variety of professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
6. What is the dress code? Business casual attire is typically expected. More details will be provided during the onboarding process.
7. What is the typical work schedule? The position is full-time, with 40 scheduled weekly hours. The typical shift is during the day.
8. What is the team like? The department has a fantastic, dedicated multidisciplinary team!
9. Does Sanford Health offer relocation assistance? Relocation assistance eligibility varies depending on the role and distance. Inquire with the recruiter about your specific case.
10. What opportunities are there for volunteering or community involvement? Sanford Health actively participates in and supports numerous community initiatives, with many opportunities for employees to get involved. Check with the HR department for current programs.