UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital’s Psychiatric Emergency Services department (PES), located in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood, is open 24 hours a day for people of all ages. We offer a safe and secure treatment setting. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Nurses, BH Navigators, and Peer Specialists who are committed to providing the best emergency care for our patients.

Peer Specialists I are individuals with lived experience who provide non-clinical support as a fully integrated treatment team member and educator for staff.

Responsibilities:

Feedback and Communication

Provide feedback to clients, families, and clinical staff.

Recovery Management

Assist clients in recovery management, including goal setting, identifying barriers, and strategies. Help clients find and use community supports and resources.

Advocacy

Advocate for clients in meetings, voicing their viewpoints and goals.

Community Engagement

Accompany clients to community activities and provide follow-up services. Facilitate recovery and wellness groups; offer individual support.

Progress Monitoring

Monitor progress and provide feedback.

Crisis Support

Use crisis support to develop and implement action plans.

Documentation

Maintain required paperwork and documentation promptly.