Peer Navigator-East of the River

Peer navigator

Location

• East of the River Health Center –
• Washington,
• DC
• Organization:
• Unity
• Health
• Care
• Employment
• Type: Full-Time

About unity health care

Unity Health Care is the largest network of community health centers in Washington, D.C., dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive, and patient-centered healthcare services to underserved communities throughout the District. Through integrated medical, behavioral health, and supportive services, Unity Health Care is committed to improving health outcomes, advancing health equity, and reducing barriers to care.

Unity's Substance Use Services team provides trauma-informed, recovery-oriented care to individuals affected by substance use disorders. We believe that lived experience is a powerful tool for engagement, recovery, and healing, and we value peer support as a critical component of comprehensive healthcare.

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Senior Director of Behavioral Health, the Peer Navigator serves as an integral member of Unity Health Care’s Substance Use Services team. Utilizing personal lived experience with addiction and recovery, the Peer Navigator builds therapeutic relationships with patients experiencing substance use disorders and supports them throughout their recovery journey.

This role uses a strengths-based, patient-centered approach to increase engagement in treatment, enhance motivation for change, reduce barriers to care, and connect patients with community resources that support long-term recovery and wellness. Services are primarily provided within Unity Health Care clinic settings, with community outreach conducted as needed for high-risk patients and those with ongoing social service needs.

• Key responsibilities
• Identify patients at risk for substance use disorders through validated screening tools
• Use non-judgmental, recovery-oriented communication to explore substance use history, treatment experiences, and recovery goals
• Assess readiness for change and utilize motivational interviewing techniques to support behavior change and engagement in care
• Assist patients in establishing personal recovery, wellness, and health-related goals