Working in peer support, the ethical and legal considerations can seem daunting! Confidentiality, privacy laws, professional boundaries… It can all begin to feel like a little overwhelming. Don’t worry, we are here to simplify everything for you. In this article we will provide some practical guidance and break down some of the complex concepts into …
If you are getting ready to take peer support training, you might wonder what to expect and how to succeed in the classes. Depending on what state you are in, the length and pace of the training may be different. Even so, these tips will help get you prepared to make the most of your …
How To Prepare For Peer Support Training: An Inside Look Read More »
Becoming a peer support worker in New Mexico was honestly one of the best decisions in my life. It changed everything and sent me in a completely new direction. That being said, enough about me. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about becoming a peer support worker in The State of …
So maybe its like this: You hear of this new career as a peer support specialist. It sounds great because you can use your own life experience to help others who are going through similar struggles. Not only that, but it allows you to continue working on yourself at the same time!. But still, you …
Have you ever found yourself wondering how to find the balance between taking care of yourself and helping others? Or trying to make sure you are offering the best support while not crossing the line? You’re not alone. In fact, setting healthy and effective boundaries in peer support can be as confusing as it is …
How To Set Healthy Boundaries In Peer Support Settings Read More »
Have you ever wondered what makes peer support truly effective? Well, to be honest, it’s a bunch of different things. However, a strong foundation based on a set of peer support core competencies is definitely a key factor, so it’s a good place to start. But what are they? And how do you incorporate them …
The Complete Guide To Peer Support Core Competencies Read More »
Communication is key in any relationship. It has the power to lift someone up, and unfortunately the power to tear someone down. As peer support specialists, we can’t afford to be careless with our words. Our goal is to motivate and inspire. However, misunderstandings can sometimes get in the way. A simple strategy to avoid …
How To Use I Statements In Peer Support Settings Read More »
We have all been on the receiving end of feedback. But how often is it constructive? By that I mean, how often is it genuinely designed to build us up rather than bring us down? Constructive feedback, when delivered correctly, can be a powerful tool for growth, especially in the field of peer support. However, …
Proven Methods for Giving Constructive Feedback In Peer Support Read More »
There is a difference between listening and hearing. Listening takes place on a personal level and requires focused attention. Hearing on the other hand… Well, We can hear what someone is saying and it might go in one ear and out the other. In peer support, this is the one thing that you don’t want …
5 Active Listening Skills Every Peer Specialist Should Know Read More »
As peer support specialists, we are always on the lookout for new ways to enhance our skills. With the ocean of knowledge out there, you may be wondering where to start. One approach that has shown significant benefits is Motivational Interviewing or MI for short. This person-centered approach is designed to promote change by helping …
Motivational Interviewing In Peer Support: Your New Secret Weapon Read More »
Asking questions is how we learn about each other and discover new things. That being said, not all questions are created equal. Asking the right open-ended questions in peer support can unlock the door to understanding. Not only for you but for the individual you are supporting. Here’s the thing, you’re not just a peer …
Open-Ended Questions In Peer Support: An Indispensable Skill Read More »
Have you ever wondered what it truly means to embrace diversity and cultural competence in peer support? Well, your not alone. It is a complex topic and an important one as well. Cultural competency in peer support goes beyond just accepting differences. It’s about creating a nurturing environment where every individual feels seen, heard, and …
Cultural Competency In Peer Support: What You Need To Know Read More »
As peer support specialists, we are the bridge between professional healthcare and the lived experiences of those we serve. Our role is unique, and our impact is profound. But what makes us effective? What is the secret ingredient that allows us to connect and inspire? The answer lies in a concept that is as simple …
Authenticity: A Proven Strategy For Effective Peer Support Read More »
Have you ever felt like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders while supporting others? A career in peer support is rewarding, but it’s not without its challenges. The emotional toll, the constant giving of oneself, and the relentless demands can lead to a state of burnout. Which in turn, threatens both …
There are a bunch of different techniques and skills that we use as peer support specialists. Active listening, conflict resolution, empathy, are tools we learn and perfect with experience and time. However, there is one tool that cannot be taught. Your story. Our stories and personal experiences are what makes peer support… well, peer support. …
How To Tell Your Recovery Story As A Peer Specialist Read More »
To use an old cliché, learning new skills is like planting seeds in a garden. They take time, care, and nurturing to grow and develop. Peer support skills are no exception. While some may appear daunting at first, it is important to remember that all skills require practice and experience to truly master. And even …
The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Peer Support Skills Read More »
Over the course of my career in peer support, I have always been on the lookout for resources and ways to connect with other peer specialists. This was all done with the hopes of becoming the best peer support specialist I could be. Maybe that sounds cheesy, but it’s true. I searched for websites, forums, …
Welcome to MHAPSS: Mental Health and Addiction Peer Support Services Read More »
Copyright © 2023 MHAPSS | Privacy Policy
Download a free set of 14 group discussion topics and never run out of things to talk about! Each topic includes suggestions for taking the discussion a little deeper, as well as additional resources.
