Larry East
Charlotte,NC
Summary
Professional support specialist with strong background in mental health advocacy and peer support. Proven ability to build trusting relationships and facilitate impactful group and individual sessions. Known for effective teamwork, adaptability, and commitment to achieving positive outcomes. Skilled in active listening and conflict resolution.
Dependable Peer Support Specialist with background in providing peer support and guidance to individuals navigating mental health challenges. Successfully facilitated group sessions and one-on-one support, fostering safe and supportive environment. Demonstrated active listening and empathy, ensuring individuals feel heard and supported.
Professional with strong background in peer support, equipped to make meaningful impact. Skilled in active listening, crisis intervention, and empathetic communication. Reliable team player who adapts to changing needs and consistently achieves results. Known for fostering collaborative environment and supporting individuals in their recovery journey.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Peer Support Specialist
Phoenix Counseling Center
Gastonia, North Carolina
01.2025 - Current
- Provided compassionate support to individuals navigating mental health challenges.
- Facilitated peer-led support groups to enhance community engagement and recovery.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop personalized care plans.
- Educated clients on coping strategies and available resources for mental wellness.
- Monitored client progress, offering feedback and encouragement to promote growth.
- Implemented evidence-based practices to improve group dynamics and effectiveness.
- Advocated for clients' needs within healthcare systems to ensure comprehensive care access.
- Developed individualized support plans to address unique client needs and goals.
- Provided crisis intervention and conflict resolution to ensure client safety and well-being.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate comprehensive care for clients.
- Educated clients on coping mechanisms and resources available within the community.
- Mentored new peer support specialists, fostering skill development and confidence in their roles.
- Evaluated client progress, adjusting support strategies based on feedback and outcomes.
- Advocated for client needs within treatment settings, enhancing access to vital services.
- Assisted clients in setting realistic goals and provided support during their journey towards achieving them.
- Enhanced client recovery by providing emotional support and practical guidance.
Certified Peer Recovery Specialist
Brain Injury Association of North Carolina
01.2021 - Current
- Provides peer support services for individuals affected by brain injury
- Facilitates group sessions focused on recovery, coping strategies, and emotional regulation
- Assists clients with navigating resources, including medical, social, and housing services
- Collaborates with medical professionals, counselors, and social workers to provide comprehensive care
JOBS & HOPE WV – Transition Agent
Mountain State Educational Service Cooperative
Dunbar, WV
01.2020 - 2023
- Assisted participants with obtaining competitive employment and creating sustainable careers
- Performed administrative duties such as tracking job referrals and placements
- Maintained knowledge of available support services and coordinated referrals
- Established relationships with treatment and recovery programs and drug courts
- Developed and implemented educational programs to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
- Collaborated with educators to assess needs and tailor resources for diverse learning environments.
- Facilitated training sessions for staff on best practices in instructional methodologies and technology integration.
- Streamlined communication processes between stakeholders to improve response times and support services.
Phase 2 Coordinator/Outreach Peer Leader
Recovery Point WV
Bluefield, West Virginia
01.2015 - 01.2020
- Monitored participants in the recovery program
- Assisted participants with transitional living, setting up bank accounts, obtaining employment, and providing transportation for court appointments
- Formulated weekly training procedures for peer mentors to facilitate recovery dynamics classes
- Managed Chess App for resident data and complied with WVARR standards
- Completed bi-weekly payroll for 13 employees.
Owner/Operator, Auto Mechanic
Courthouse Automotive
Princeton, West Virginia
01.2002 - 01.2014
- Managed business operations, including employee payroll and scheduling
- Handled accounts payable/receivable
- Conducted computerized front-end alignments, diagnostics, and general mechanic work
- Developed strategic business plans to optimize operations and increase profitability.
- Led team in implementing innovative marketing strategies, enhancing brand visibility.
- Streamlined inventory management processes, improving efficiency and reducing costs.
- Cultivated relationships with suppliers, negotiating favorable terms and ensuring quality standards.
Emergency Medical Dispatcher
Mercer County E911
Princeton, West Virginia
01.2000 - 01.2002
- Handled emergency and non-emergency calls, determined response priorities, and dispatched appropriate units
- Utilized advanced communication systems to relay critical information to first responders.
- Analyzed incoming calls for urgency and appropriate resource allocation.
- Mentored junior dispatchers on protocols and effective communication techniques.
Paramedic - Shift Commander - Instructor
Bluefield / Princeton, WV Rescue Squads
Bluefield , West Virginia
01.1995 - 01.2001
- Administered drugs and performed intravenous procedures in pre-hospital settings
- Prioritized medical cases and acted as incident commander in high-stress situations
- Instructed courses in Basic Trauma Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, and more
- Administered emergency medical care to patients in critical conditions during transport.
- Collaborated with first responders to assess and manage patient needs on-site.
- Coordinated with hospitals to ensure timely patient handoff for advanced treatment.
Education
Associate of Arts - Paramedicine
Bluefield State College
Bluefield, WV01.1995
Narcan Train the Trainer -
Marshall University
Huntington, WV01.2022
Skills
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
- Monitoring
- Complex Problem Solving
- Coordination
- Written/Oral Communication
- Customer Service
- Quality Assurance
- Compassionate
- Proficient in Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams
- Peer support ethics
- Recovery guidance
- Substance abuse awareness
- Boundary setting
- Rapport building
- Self-care management
- Problem-solving skills
- Relationship building skills
- Mental health advocacy
- Stress reduction techniques
- Motivational interviewing
- Arranging transportation
- Mental health services
- Leadership skills
- Wellness recovery action plan
- Empathy development
- Relapse prevention
- Effective collaboration and interaction
- Appointment scheduling
- Recovery planning
- Resource navigation
Accomplishments
- Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets.
- Supervised team of 25 staff members.
Certification
- Working Smart Certification - October 2024
- Creating Your Be-Print Certification - July 30, 2024
- Peer Recovery Support Specialist
- Peer Recovery Ethics - McShin Recovery Resource Foundation (2023)
- Recovery Dynamics - Kelly Foundation (2021)
Timeline
Peer Support Specialist
Phoenix Counseling Center
01.2025 - Current
Certified Peer Recovery Specialist
Brain Injury Association of North Carolina
01.2021 - Current
JOBS & HOPE WV – Transition Agent
Mountain State Educational Service Cooperative
01.2020 - 2023
Phase 2 Coordinator/Outreach Peer Leader
Recovery Point WV
01.2015 - 01.2020
Owner/Operator, Auto Mechanic
Courthouse Automotive
01.2002 - 01.2014
Emergency Medical Dispatcher
Mercer County E911
01.2000 - 01.2002
Paramedic - Shift Commander - Instructor
Bluefield / Princeton, WV Rescue Squads
01.1995 - 01.2001
Associate of Arts - Paramedicine
Bluefield State College
Narcan Train the Trainer -
Marshall University