The Digital Peer Support Specialist Role in Health and Wellness-Presentation and Q&A

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Karen Fortuna, an expert in digital peer support, presents a webinar on the role of digital peer support specialists in health and wellness. The webinar is hosted by SMI Advisor, an initiative focused on implementing evidence-based care for individuals with serious mental illness. Dr. Fortuna discusses the use of technology, such as apps and texting, to provide peer support services to those with mental health or substance use challenges. She highlights the importance of meeting individuals where they are and allowing them to choose the method of communication that works best for them. Dr. Fortuna also addresses the need for training and support for peer support specialists who are utilizing technology in their practice. She presents research on the effectiveness of digital peer support interventions in improving outcomes such as empowerment, hope, and recovery. Dr. Fortuna provides insights into the development of a digital peer support app called PeerTech and discusses the use of technology in supporting individuals with serious mental illness to address the issue of early mortality. She emphasizes the importance of a community-engaged approach and the integration of peer support and self-management services to achieve positive outcomes. Overall, the webinar highlights the potential of digital peer support in expanding access to care and improving outcomes for individuals with serious mental illness.

Keywords

digital peer support

webinar

technology

peer support specialists

mental health

substance use challenges

research

empowerment

PeerTech

serious mental illness