Peer Support Specialist - Women's Residential (Sat & Sun: 8am-4pm)

As a Peer Support Specialist at our women’s residential facility in Seaford, Delaware, you will play a vital role in assisting residents with their recovery processes. Your main responsibilities will include conducting support meetings, linking clients to necessary services, monitoring behaviors and schedules, and responding to emergencies. Additionally, you will provide recovery education in a non-judgmental manner, ensuring culturally appropriate support that respects each resident's individuality.

To be considered for the Peer Support Specialist role at our women's residential facility, candidates must have a minimum of two years of proven work experience in behavioral health, substance use disorder treatment, or a related field. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential, along with a caring and compassionate demeanor. Relevant training or certifications as a Peer Support Specialist are preferred, and a valid driver's license is required.

The part-time Peer Support Specialist position at our women’s residential facility is currently scheduled for weekends, specifically on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00am to 4:00pm. This allows you to provide crucial support during peak times for our residents while maintaining a balanced work-life schedule.

During weekends, the Peer Support Specialist significantly contributes to resident care by facilitating support meetings, coordinating medical appointments, and providing instant assistance during emergencies. Your role will be pivotal in fostering a safe environment where residents can thrive and continue on their recovery journey, making you a key player in the overall support system.

The Peer Support Specialist position at our women's residential facility comes with numerous benefits, including a comprehensive health care plan (medical, dental, and vision), a retirement plan (401k and ROTH 401k), paid time off, and 11 paid holidays annually. Additionally, you will have access to training and development opportunities as well as wellness resources to support your personal and professional growth.

As a Peer Support Specialist, essential qualities include compassion, active listening skills, and the ability to remain non-judgmental. Highlighting your experience in building rapport and trust with individuals in recovery can greatly support your response in the interview.

In handling conflicts or crises, it’s vital to maintain calm and focus on de-escalation techniques. Demonstrating your understanding of crisis intervention strategies and your ability to work collaboratively with other professionals can showcase your readiness for the role.

Sharing a specific scenario where you provided emotional support or resource linkage during a difficult time can illustrate your capability. Discuss the methods you employed and the positive outcome, reflecting your dedication and impact on the client's recovery.

Understanding trauma-informed care is essential for a Peer Support Specialist. Discuss the core principles such as safety, trustworthiness, peer support, and empowerment to show your commitment to providing sensitive and effective support to residents.

Promoting a positive recovery environment involves fostering a sense of community, encouraging open communication, and celebrating residents' successes. Discuss how you can facilitate group activities or meetings that uplift individuals and enhance their recovery experience.

Teaching coping skills involves using techniques such as role-playing, mindfulness exercises, and providing practical tools. Share your strategies and how they have successfully assisted residents in developing skills for managing their recovery journey.

Discuss your commitment to professional development through attending training, workshops, and reading relevant literature on peer support and recovery practices. This showcases your desire to continuously improve your skills and knowledge.

In such cases, it's important to respect their autonomy while also expressing understanding. Discuss your approach to gently encouraging them to reconsider while assuring them that support is always available when they are ready.

Collaboration with other professionals is crucial in recovery. Highlight your experience working alongside therapists, medical professionals, and families to develop a comprehensive care plan that truly addresses the needs of residents.

Your motivation for wanting to work in a women's residential facility can reflect your passion for supporting women in recovery, advocating for their needs, and creating a nurturing environment. Be genuine about your mission to make a positive impact.