What is one of the primary roles of a Certified Peer Specialist (CPS)?

The primary role of a Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) is to identify as someone who has lived experience with mental health and/or substance use recovery. This personal experience allows the CPS to connect with individuals who are navigating similar challenges, fostering a sense of understanding and empathy. By sharing their own journey, they can offer hope and inspiration to those they support, demonstrating that recovery is possible. This role emphasizes mutual support, validating the experiences of others, and empowering individuals to take charge of their recovery.

The other options do not represent the core function of a CPS. Providing technical support for mental health treatments focuses more on clinical or administrative roles rather than peer support. Conducting therapy sessions is typically outside the scope of practice for a peer specialist, as they are not licensed therapists. Supervising mental health technicians involves a leadership role that is distinct from the peer support model, which centers on shared experience rather than authority.