Chelsea Mathes
Bloomington
Summary
Peer Recovery Specialist passionate about helping individuals recognize their strengths, overcome barriers, and build meaningful recovery plans. Seeking to use personal recovery experience and evidence‑based peer support strategies to inspire hope and promote resilience within diverse communities
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Peer Support Specialist Intern
Gateway Foundation Rehab Centers
Bloomington
02.2026 - Current
- Provided one-on-one support to individuals navigating addiction challenges.
- Assisted patients in developing coping strategies and personal recovery plans.
- Assisted patients with developing healthy coping skills to manage stressors.
- Collaborated with treatment teams to ensure holistic care and support.
- Educated patients about available resources and community services for recovery.
- Actively listened and responded empathetically when interacting with patients.
- Instilled hope by promoting positive self-disclosure and actively listening to patient needs.
- Shared details regarding recovery and wellness principles focused on helping others struggling to stay focused on personal recovery journeys.
- Conducted assessments to identify needs, strengths, and resources of patients.
- Documented patient progress and updates for case management purposes.
- Maintained accurate records of patient progress through use of electronic medical record system.
- Adhered to applicable laws, regulations, policies, procedures, standards, and guidelines.
- Researched relevant topics related to mental health services or treatments.
- Planned, coordinated, and facilitated alumni events that brought together current and former patients to promote sober social connection, community support, and hope‑centered recovery.
Personal Assistant
Department of Rehabilitation Services
Pekin
05.2024 - Current
- Delivered comprehensive personal care and assistance with medical procedures for an individual with complex health needs.
- Coordinated care and resources between healthcare providers, family, and support services to ensure continuity of care.
- Advocated for client needs by communicating with agencies (e.g., DRS) to secure benefits and services.
- Maintained accurate documentation of health updates, schedules, and compliance requirements.
- Provides companionship, reassurance, and emotional stability during health challenges.
- Responds to medical emergencies and ensures safety.
Household Manager
Remote
08.2010 - Current
- Managed household operations, including scheduling, budgeting, and procurement of supplies to maintain a safe and organized environment.
- Provided person-centered care, assisting with daily living activities and basic health procedures to promote independence.
- Coordinated medical appointments, therapy sessions, and community resources to support health and recovery goals.
- Advocated for individual needs by communicating with healthcare providers, agencies, and support services.
- Maintained accurate documentation of schedules, health updates, and compliance requirements.
- Applied empathy and active listening to build trust and provide emotional support during challenging situations.
- Responded effectively to crises and implemented safety protocols to ensure well-being.
- Educated family members on care procedures and encouraged self-advocacy and recovery-oriented practices.
Education
Certificate - Certified Recovery Support Specialist
Heartland Community College
Bloomington, IL12-2025
Certificate - Mental Health First Aid- Adult
National Council for Mental Wellbeing
Bloomington, IL12-2025
Certificate - WRAP seminar II
Advocates for Human Potential
Bloomington, IL12-2025
Certificate - QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program
QPR Institute
Bloomington, IL08-2025
High School -
Prairie Central High School
Fairbury, IL05-2008
Skills
- Peer support
- Empathy
- Active listening
- Mental Health Awareness
- Advocacy
- Communication
- Conflict Resolution
- Emotional Intelligence
- Critical thinking
- Documentation management
Timeline
Peer Support Specialist Intern
Gateway Foundation Rehab Centers
02.2026 - Current
Personal Assistant
Department of Rehabilitation Services
05.2024 - Current
Household Manager
08.2010 - Current
Certificate - Certified Recovery Support Specialist
Heartland Community College
Certificate - Mental Health First Aid- Adult
National Council for Mental Wellbeing
Certificate - WRAP seminar II
Advocates for Human Potential
Certificate - QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program
QPR Institute
High School -
Prairie Central High School