Peer recovery specialists, individuals with lived experience of mental health or substance use challenges, need to be trained to effectively support others in their recovery journey. But it’s more than that.
Proper training, combined with practical experience and supervision, ensures peers possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support others in a way that also supports their own recovery.
Why Training is Important
Knowledge of Recovery Principles
Becoming familiar with recovery models, stages of change, and various approaches to recovery allows peers to meet people where they are and better support people in finding their own path to wellness.
Peer Support Skills
It’s important to develop essential skills like active listening, empathy, motivational interviewing, and facilitating group discussions. Developing these skills helps peers build trusting relationships and empowers them to be a voice for change in their community.
Understanding of Mental Health and Substance Use
Training provides specialized knowledge about different mental health and substance use challenges, and the complexity of co-occurring conditions, enabling them to provide compassionate support and informed referrals.
Ethical Conduct and Boundaries
Having clarity about and adhering to ethical guidelines, including maintaining boundaries, respecting confidentiality, and avoiding dual relationships is critical to effective recovery support.
Navigating the System
Training helps peer specialists understand the complexities of the mental health and substance use service system, including how to access resources, advocating for clients, and coordinating care.
Continuing Education and Professional Development
Ongoing education and professional development are important in many fields. These sessions give opportunities to stay up-to-date with the latest research, best practices, and ethical standards in the field. Many professionals are required to take a regular number of CEUs each year to maintain their credentials.
Maintaining Personal Well-being
Self-care is important for peer specialists. Training helps them recognize the potential impact of their work and maintain their own recovery.