Q&A: How peer support plays a key role in recovery
You might call them a peer support coach, peer support specialist or maybe even Certified Peer Support Professional (CPSP). But their title doesn’t matter as much as their purpose.
To learn more about the role of peers in addiction and mental health recovery, we sat down with three peers at Northeastern Center: Jennifer, Kelly and JD.
What is a peer support specialist?
JD: A peer is someone with lived experience, meaning we have lived with addiction or mental health challenges and are in active recovery. It helps us better connect with people and remove some of the stigma. They’re more likely to open up and talk – sometimes it just takes that person who’s been down the same road.
What does a peer do?
Kelly: Peers provide emotional support, practical assistance and system navigation. We can offer empathy and understanding based on our own experience in these situations. We’re an enhancement to the support team, which may also include therapists, doctors, case managers and loved ones.
How do you help someone navigate recovery?
Jennifer: People who haven’t been through it might give you a long list of options and 90% doesn’t apply. Peers can help explain different services, like detox or transitional living, based on an individual’s needs. We help map out the road to recovery and make it a more personalized experience for them.
What are the requirements to become a peer support specialist?
JD: Generally, you need to have lived experience and be in active recovery/sobriety for a minimum length of time. There are multiple options for certification with varying requirements.
What do you wish more people knew about addiction and recovery?
Jennfier: That there’s hope. There’s always hope. You may feel alone in your addiction, but you’re surrounded by people who understand.
How can someone get connected to a peer support specialist at Northeastern Center?
Kelly: The two easiest options are through our crisis services. You can call our Emergency Solutions team at 1-800-790-0118, or you can walk into the Community Health and Outreach Center at 1752 Wesley Road in Auburn. Both are open 24/7 with peer support specialists ready to help.
