What is the main goal for Certified Peer Specialists when interacting with individuals?

The main goal for Certified Peer Specialists when interacting with individuals is to assist them in self-advocacy. This means that peer specialists provide support to individuals in articulating their own needs, preferences, and desires regarding their recovery journey. By empowering individuals to advocate for themselves, peer specialists help them gain confidence in their ability to make informed choices and take charge of their own lives.

This approach is rooted in the belief that individuals who have lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges can be instrumental in helping others navigate their own recovery processes. It promotes a sense of autonomy and self-direction, which is essential for personal growth and recovery.

The focus on self-advocacy distinguishes the role of Certified Peer Specialists from more traditional clinical roles, where the emphasis might be on diagnosis and treatment rather than facilitation of individual empowerment. This aligns with the principles of person-centered care, where the individual's voice is central to their recovery process.