Peer Support Specialist - Ascent - First Episode Psychosis

Peer Support Specialist – Ascent Program

Job Location:

Intensive Services Campus - Greeley, CO 80631

Salary Range: $17.60 - $24.59 Hourly

Employment Type:

Full-Time

Posting Closes: 06.30.2026

Education Requirements:

High School Diploma/GED

This position includes eligibility for a monthly performance bonus.

The Ascent Program at North Range Behavioral Health provides early, specialized support for teens and young adults who experience unusual thoughts or behaviors, including hearing or seeing things others do not, often referred to as First Episode Psychosis (FEP). Early identification and intervention increase the likelihood of recovery and reduce the need for hospitalization. The program is designed to meet individuals early in their journey and support them in building meaningful, self‑directed lives.

Clients are supported by a collaborative, community‑based team that includes a therapist, case manager, peer support specialist, and weekly psychiatric oversight. The peer support specialist brings lived experience to the team, offering authentic connection, hope, and encouragement through a peer‑to‑peer relationship that helps clients feel understood, empowered, and engaged in services. The role emphasizes skill‑building and resiliency, helping clients develop tools for illness management while working toward the life they want to live.

• Provide direct services to clients with the guidance of an Administrative or Clinical Supervisor.
• Use lived experience, empathy, and recovery‑oriented practices to model hope, resilience, and effective coping strategies, supporting clients through coaching, role modeling, and appropriate self‑disclosure.
• Partner closely with therapists and the clinical team to coordinate services, respond to client needs, and support treatment goals while helping prevent crises, deterioration, or hospitalization.
• Help clients access benefits, community resources, and supportive services by coordinating care with internal programs and external partners.
• Support clients in identifying barriers to recovery or resiliency, recognizing warning signs, and building health habits that promote wellness and reduce the risk of relapse or crisis.
• Coach clients in practical life and behavioral skills, assist with problem‑solving, and support activities of daily living, while offering a compassionate, listening ear.
• Promote medication awareness and effective communication with medical and mental health providers; assist clients in developing wellness, recovery, or crisis plans (e.g., SAMHSA tools, Psychiatric Advance Directives).
• Provide encouragement and support to clients and, when appropriate, their families or support systems.
• Advocate for clients across settings such as schools, nursing facilities, healthcare systems, and family environments.
• Lead or support social, recreational, peer support, or consumer‑run groups that foster connection and community.
• Maintain timely, accurate documentation, including progress notes and electronic health records, ensuring services are ethically delivered and appropriately billed.

• Brings empathy, lived experience, and passion for supporting others.
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience, with the ability to read, write, and communicate effectively.
• Lived or relational experience similar to the population served, including experience with mental health challenges, substance use, co-occurring conditions, or child family systems.
• Actively engaged in a personal recovery or resiliency plan for at least one year.
• Strong motivation to support and inspire others in their recovery journey.
• Demonstrated respect for individual strengths, independence, and self‑determination.
• Valid Colorado driver’s license with an insurable driving record.

• Generous PTO and paid holidays
• Multiple medical, dental, and vision plans at no cost to employees
• Health Reimbursement Account
• Retirement plan with employer contributions
• Loan forgiveness opportunities
• Employee referral bonuses
• Professional development opportunities

North Range Behavioral Health is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and supportive workplace for all. We welcome applicants of every background, including race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, and all other legally protected characteristics. We believe a diverse team strengthens our ability to serve our community.