Job Title : Peer Recovery Specialist

Location: New Castle, DE 19720
On-site | 2nd Shift 
Is driving/travel required for this position: Yes 

Duration: max 1 year
Department: Department of Health and Human Services – Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse
Reports To: Administrative Supervisor

Job Summary: 

The Peer Recovery Specialist provides support services to individuals experiencing mental illness, addiction, or co-occurring conditions by drawing on their own lived experience in recovery. This role offers guidance, hope, and encouragement to individuals as they develop skills for independent and productive living in the community. The specialist assists consumers as they transition between levels of care and contributes to the delivery of comprehensive patient care services that uphold the mission and integrity of the Department of Health and Human Services – Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide peer support to individuals experiencing challenges related to mental illness, addiction, and recovery.

• Use personal lived experience to model recovery, instill hope, and educate consumers.

• Assist clients in developing life skills, coping strategies, and community-based resources to enhance independence and stability.

• Support clients transitioning between various levels of care (e.g., inpatient to outpatient).

• Participate in treatment planning, support groups, and recovery-focused activities as needed.

• Maintain accurate documentation of services delivered in accordance with departmental policies.

• Collaborate with clinical teams, case managers, and community partners to support client recovery goals.

• Uphold ethical standards, maintain confidentiality, and follow established recovery and peer support guidelines.

• Attend required trainings, supervision sessions, and team meetings.

Minimum Qualifications (at least one required)

1. High School Diploma or GED

2. Valid Driver’s License

3. Direct personal experience with mental illness and/or addiction and recovery, with willingness to self-disclose lived experience for education, role modeling, and offering hope to others.

4. Completion of Delaware Certified Peer Recovery Specialist Training (or willingness to obtain).

5. Experience in a peer support role, providing guidance based on lived experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of community-based mental health and substance use resources.

• Strong communication, empathy, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.

• Experience supporting individuals transitioning across care settings.

Skills & Competencies

• Peer support and mentoring

• Active listening and communication

• Crisis de-escalation awareness

• Documentation and reporting

• Cultural sensitivity and trauma-informed care

• Problem-solving and resource navigation