The role of peer support specialist is one of the most promising in some of the new paradigms of treatment that are beginning to develop. Very slowly the idea that people in this role can supply something unique and important to the therapeutic process is becoming more and more accepted. The growing acceptance of the recovery model makes the role of someone who has “walked in their shoes” more important. It also shows that therapeutic connection is horizontal and not vertical. Therapy is not just a matter of doing what “people who know more than you” tell you to do. It is about you becoming the expert and making your own choices in life.
I have heard more and more reports of peer support specialists trying to form their own groups to both advocate and increase the standards and professionalism of those who have this role. For example, in Michigan Tom Burden and others have begun to develop a group which will hopefully not only impact their state but serve as a model for other states. I know people in other states are doing similiar things are doing similiar things and I hope to share some of them with you in future posts. If you would like to share something you are doing or that is being done in your state please contact me and let me know about it.
Thanks to all who are trying so hard to make a new reality for those with mental health issues in their lives and make this a better place for all of us.
The role of peer support specialist is one of the most promising in some of the new paradigms of treatment that are beginning to develop. Very slowly the idea that people in this role can supply something unique and important to the therapeutic process is becoming more and more accepted. The growing acceptance of the recovery model makes the role of someone who has “walked in their shoes” more important. It also shows that therapeutic connection is horizontal and not vertical. Therapy is not just a matter of doing what “people who know more than you” tell you to do. It is about you becoming the expert and making your own choices in life.
I have heard more and more reports of peer support specialists trying to form their own groups to both advocate and increase the standards and professionalism of those who have this role. For example, in Michigan Tom Burden and others have begun to develop a group which will hopefully not only impact their state but serve as a model for other states. I know people in other states are doing similiar things are doing similiar things and I hope to share some of them with you in future posts. If you would like to share something you are doing or that is being done in your state please contact me and let me know about it.
Thanks to all who are trying so hard to make a new reality for those with mental health issues in their lives and make this a better place for all of us.