Peer Support Specialists strive to empower individuals to achieve their hopes, dreams, and goals, and connect them with their personal recovery journey. A Peer SupportSpecialist is a person who has walked the path of recovery from mental illness and is employed to assist others in their journeys of recovery.
Peer Support Specialist Duties and Responsibilities
In order to provide support to patients based on personal experience, a Peer Support Specialist performs many different tasks.
Support Patients
The Peer Support Specialist first and foremost uses their personal experiences to develop meaningful and trusting relationships with patients, acting as a mentor. As someone who successfully managed their own recovery, the Peer Support Specialist provides patients an example of what they can strive for in their recovery.
Build Community
The Peer Support Specialist works to build a community of both patients and staff that is supportive and conducive to patient growth and recovery. They assist in the creation and implementation of social activities and help create a positive environment for everyone.
Identify Resources for Patients
Peer Support Specialists link up with various community organizations and resources to provide additional support for patients, particularly as they transition from recovery back into the general community. This can include continued healthcare, housing, job assistance, and additional treatment services as well as support in the task of finding or re-integrating with friends, family, and outside communities.