DSHS Maple Lane Peer Support Specialist

Full Job Description

BHHA Maple Lane Peer Support Specialist / Behavioral Health Specialist 3

Join our team as a Peer Support Specialist (Behavioral Health Specialist 3) at our newest behavioral health treatment campus, Maple Lane, near Centralia, WA.

In this role, the Peer Support Specialist (BHS3) will serve as a key member of the Baker Unit team at the Maple Lane Campus, part of the Behavioral Health and Treatment Center (BHTC) under the Behavioral Health and Habilitation Administration (BHHA). This position provides both individual support and group facilitation on a regular basis, a core responsibility that sets it apart from other BHS staff.

Behavioral Health Treatment Center Maple Lane offers innovative treatment for residents who are civilly committed, in need of competency restoration, or adjudicated not guilty by reason of mental diagnosis. Each residential unit helps shape the future of behavioral health, aligning with Washington State’s vision of community-based care. Treating residents in smaller facilities, we help them stay closer to home, family, and support systems, fostering stronger community connections.

Note: Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.

Some of what you will do:

• Guide residents in following facility policies, daily expectations, and unit rules.
• Encourage resident engagement in treatment, recreation, vocational tasks, and goal-oriented activities.
• Interact with residents using clear communication while providing daily monitoring and supportive problem-solving.
• Assist with small-group sessions, informal counseling, and treatment-related discussions under clinical supervision.
• Maintain safety and security through regular checks, observation of interactions, and proper procedures for movement and visitation.
• Respond appropriately to psychiatric, behavioral, or medical emergencies using approved de-escalation techniques.
• Complete accurate and timely documentation, participate in meetings, and provide thorough shift updates to staff.
• Support daily living needs by escorting residents, preparing meals, managing supplies, and helping maintain an orderly environment.

Who should apply:

A Bachelor's degree preferably involving major study in sociology, psychology or other social science.
And
Two years of professional counseling or casework experience.

Or

One year as a Behavioral Health Specialist 2.

Or

Equivalent education/relevant experience.

Interested or have questions?

Apply today or contact vincent.hamilton@dshs.wa.gov and reference #01220.The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work.

It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS.

We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.

Additional Information

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted.

Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job.

This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license.

Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protect­ed veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information.

Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810.

Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

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