KEEN Development

Can I receive help quickly?

Yes, immediately after completing onboarding and sign up you will receive supportive benefits.

Is there a free trial available?

Yes, we offer a free trial period of 14 days. During this period, you will have full access to all of our features and services.What is a Peer Support Specialist?

A Peer Support Specialist is someone who has lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges and provides support to others facing similar situations. They use their personal experience to offer guidance, empathy, and practical advice to help individuals achieve their recovery goals.

How does a Peer Support Specialist help?

Peer Support Specialists help by providing emotional support, sharing coping strategies, offering hope and encouragement, and connecting individuals with resources or services. They also act as role models of recovery, helping clients feel understood and less isolated.

What qualifications or training does a Peer Support Specialist need?

Peer Support Specialists typically complete a training program that includes core competencies such as active listening, crisis management, cultural competence, and professional boundaries. Many are certified through organizations such as the Mental Health America (MHA) or the International Association of Peer Supporters (iNAPS).

What is the difference between a Peer Support Specialist and a therapist or counselor?

While therapists and counselors provide clinical interventions, Peer Support Specialists provide non-clinical support based on shared lived experience. PSSs are not licensed to provide therapy, but they complement therapeutic services by offering personal support, encouragement, and guidance from the perspective of someone who has “been there.”

Can a Peer Support Specialist diagnose mental health conditions or substance use disorders?

No, Peer Support Specialists do not diagnose or treat medical conditions. They focus on providing emotional support and helping individuals navigate their recovery journey. Diagnosis and treatment are handled by licensed clinicians or medical professionals.

Is the support provided confidential?

Yes, Peer Support Specialists follow confidentiality guidelines similar to those of other mental health professionals. However, there may be exceptions in cases of imminent risk of harm, such as if an individual is at risk of self-harm or harming others. It’s important for the Peer Support Specialist to clarify these confidentiality boundaries with their clients.

Questions from Clients or Potential Participants

7. How do I get matched with a Peer Support Specialist?
   • You may be referred to a Peer Support Specialist through your mental health care provider, treatment center, support group, or community organization. Alternatively, some peer support services may allow you to request a specific specialist based on shared experiences or other preferences.
8. Will a Peer Support Specialist be able to help me with my specific situation?
   • A Peer Support Specialist brings their own lived experience to the table, so while they may not have had the exact same experience, they understand the challenges you’re facing and can offer support tailored to your individual needs.
9. How often will I meet with my Peer Support Specialist?
   • The frequency of meetings will depend on the service you’re receiving. Some Peer Support Specialists meet weekly, biweekly, or as needed. The relationship can be flexible and designed to meet the client’s goals.
10. What can I talk about with my Peer Support Specialist?
    • You can talk about anything related to your recovery or life experiences, including challenges, fears, goals, coping strategies, and more. Peer Support Specialists are there to listen, offer guidance, and help you work through obstacles.
11. Are Peer Support Services covered by insurance?
    • In some cases, insurance may cover Peer Support Services, particularly if they are part of a larger treatment program or integrated care plan. It’s important to check with your insurance provider or the organization offering peer support services for specific coverage details.
12. Is Peer Support only for people with mental health or substance use challenges?
    • While Peer Support is commonly associated with mental health and substance use recovery, the concept can also apply to individuals navigating other challenges such as chronic illness, trauma recovery, or even navigating life changes such as grief or loss.

Questions about the Role of the Peer Support Specialist

13. What is the role of a Peer Support Specialist in a treatment or recovery team?
    • The Peer Support Specialist’s role is to provide non-clinical support and share personal lived experience to inspire hope, offer encouragement, and help clients with practical recovery strategies. They often work alongside therapists, counselors, and other health professionals, but their focus is on empowerment, community building, and self-advocacy.
14. Can a Peer Support Specialist work with a person who is not currently in treatment?
    • Yes, Peer Support Specialists can work with individuals who are not currently in formal treatment. They can offer support in navigating recovery, accessing resources, and making positive changes, even if the individual is not ready for therapy or counseling.
15. How does a Peer Support Specialist handle difficult emotions or crises?
    • Peer Support Specialists are trained to provide emotional support in difficult moments and may help clients de-escalate situations or manage distress. However, they are not crisis workers; if a person is in immediate danger or experiencing a mental health crisis, they will typically refer to emergency services or a mental health professional.
16. Can a Peer Support Specialist form a long-term relationship with me?
    • Peer Support relationships can be ongoing as long as the individual benefits from the support. However, in some cases, the relationship may evolve or come to an end if the person has achieved their recovery goals or if the Peer Support Specialist needs to step back due to boundaries or ethical concerns.
17. How do I know if the Peer Support Specialist is the right fit for me?
    • Finding the right fit may take time. It’s important to feel comfortable with your Peer Support Specialist and be able to communicate openly with them. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to request a different specialist or explore other resources.

Questions about Peer Support Specialist Certification and Ethics

18. What does certification for a Peer Support Specialist entail?
    • Certification programs typically involve completing training that covers topics such as ethics, communication skills, crisis management, boundaries, confidentiality, and cultural competence. Certification is often awarded after completing a specified number of training hours and passing an exam.
19. What ethical guidelines do Peer Support Specialists follow?
    • Peer Support Specialists adhere to a code of ethics that includes maintaining confidentiality, setting professional boundaries, avoiding dual relationships (such as being a friend or family member), and always acting in the best interest of the individual receiving support.
20. How can I become a Peer Support Specialist?
    • To become a Peer Support Specialist, you generally need to complete training that meets certification requirements in your area. Each region may have different processes or programs, but most programs will require you to have lived experience with a mental health or substance use disorder, complete relevant coursework, and pass an exam to become certified.

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These FAQs cover the basics of what a Peer Support Specialist is, their role, and how they can assist individuals in recovery or with life challenges. The role of a Peer Support Specialist can vary depending on the setting, but the central focus is always to provide hope, support, and encouragement through shared lived experience.

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