Certified Peer Support Specialist with extensive experience at Northern Lakes CMH, specializing in emotional awareness and communication. Expertise in building relationships and teaching coping strategies, enabling clients to access essential community resources. Focus on fostering independence and resilience in recovery journeys.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Certified Peer Support Specialist
Northern Lakes CMH
Traverse City, MI
07.2023 - 07.2025
Provided emotional support through listening actively and validating feelings expressed by clients during sessions.
Provided one-on-one peer support services to individuals with mental health conditions in a clinical setting.
Assisted clients in developing coping skills and strategies to manage daily stressors.
Educated clients about different resources available within the community that could help them reach their goals.
Offered guidance on how to access housing, employment opportunities, educational programs. within the community.
Maintained accurate records of client progress and interactions according to agency policy.
Advocated on behalf of clients when needed by communicating with external providers regarding insurance coverage or other administrative matters.
Volunteer
NAMI - National Alliance On Mental Illness
Traverse City, MI
09.2020 - Current
Currently facilitate the weekly Connection support group of Peers.
Have taught an eight week Peer-to-Peer informational class online using Zoom three times.
Completed required training to qualify for positions.
Shared details regarding recovery and wellness principles focused on helping others struggling to stay focused on personal recovery journeys.
Instilled hope by promoting positive self-disclosure and actively listening to client needs.
Assisted Peers through dynamic relationships built on trust and utilized effective listening and interpersonal skills.
Program Assistant
GTI Grand Traverse Industries
Traverse City, MI
08.2022 - 06.2023
Supported client interests and welfare by encouraging participation in events geared toward appropriate physical activity and social interactions.
Driving daily transport picking up and dropping off clients using company minivans.
Organized and accompanied clients on outings into the community to promote inclusion and socialization within society.
Guided clients through volunteer opportunities when available.
Prepared and assisted clients with enrichment activities and crafts while modifying activities to match client capabilities.
Monitored clients to identify and address specific care needs.
Improved client outlook and daily living through compassionate care.
Intern
GTI - Grand Traverse Industries
Traverse City, MI
08.2022 - 08.2022
Completed two-week internship at GTI - Grand Traverse Industries through Michigan Rehabilitation Services.
Gained hands-on experience in workforce settings with individuals with special needs.
Received offer for permanent position at GTI - Grand Traverse Industries upon internship completion, which was accepted.
Home Health Care Provider
Family Member
Traverse City, MI
06.2014 - 03.2020
Maintained clean and well-organized environment.
Encouraged mother with personal care needs to foster independence.
Researched and integrated resources to enhance better mental health.
Scheduled appointments, ran errands and drove to social engagements.
Education
Peer Support Specialist Certification - Peer Support
MDHHS Certified Peer Support Specialist
Michigan
11-2023
Associate of Science - Nursing
Pima Community College
Tucson, AZ
12-1996
Skills
Team collaboration
Emotional awareness
Listening skills
Empathy, diplomacy
Effective communicator
Relationship building
Teaching
Organizing
Attention to detail
Willingness to learn
References
Brenda Leitow (231) 384-5682
Timeline
Certified Peer Support Specialist
Northern Lakes CMH
07.2023 - 07.2025
Program Assistant
GTI Grand Traverse Industries
08.2022 - 06.2023
Intern
GTI - Grand Traverse Industries
08.2022 - 08.2022
Volunteer
NAMI - National Alliance On Mental Illness
09.2020 - Current
Home Health Care Provider
Family Member
06.2014 - 03.2020
Peer Support Specialist Certification - Peer Support