Peer Support as a Profession-Presentation Slides

Presentation Slides

Pdf Summary

This document discusses the topic of peer support as a profession in the field of mental health. Peer support is defined as a system of giving and receiving help based on principles of respect and shared responsibility. Peer support is not based on psychiatric models and diagnostic criteria, but rather on understanding and empathy through shared experiences of emotional and psychological pain. The role of a peer support worker includes activities such as advocacy, linking individuals to resources, sharing personal experiences, community and relationship building, group facilitation, skill building, mentoring, and goal setting.<br /><br />The document emphasizes the importance of peer support remaining a non-clinical service focused on the commonality of being a peer. It discusses the differences in perspectives between peer specialists and clinical staff, highlighting the need for choice and self-determination in the recovery process.<br /><br />The document also mentions the progress made in providing peer support in public behavioral health, with approximately 24,000 peer specialists certified in 41 states and the District of Columbia. However, little progress has been made in providing peer support in the private sector due to variability in certification standards between states. The need for national certification standards is emphasized to ensure quality services across state lines.<br /><br />Peer support has been found to be beneficial in following personal journeys to recovery, engaging individuals who are reluctant to receive services, promoting self-management of health, and reducing re-hospitalization rates and emergency department usage. The document also mentions the success of the Bridger Model, which introduces individuals to peer support during inpatient stays and continues support in the community after discharge.<br /><br />Overall, the document highlights the evolving nature of peer support as a profession and the important role it plays in behavioral health.

Keywords

Peer support profession

Mental health

Respect and shared responsibility

Non-clinical service

Peer specialists

Recovery process

Public behavioral health

National certification standards

Self-management of health

Bridger Model