What defines Peer-based Recovery Support?
Peer-Based Recovery Support (PBRS) roles such as a Recovery Coaches (CAPRC) or Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS) are state-certified credentials. These certifications empower individuals with lived experience to seek employment aimed at providing hope, mentorship, and linkage with services to those experiencing severe alcohol and other drug and/or mental health issues.
The Community Health Worker (CHW) credential affords individuals who may have a desire to serve this population, despite direct-lived experience, an avenue to provide similar services. Often CHWs bring the experiences and impacts of those in support roles, i.e. family members or close allies of those who would qualify for assistance.
Peer-Based Recovery Support Services are always based on a self-directed approach to establishing a personal recovery identity. Peers come alongside those struggling and propose: ‘What would recovery look like for you?’ and ‘How can we support you in that journey?’
A peer’s role in supporting the recovery initiation process often includes a connection to formal services, assistance navigating the local recovery landscape, and exploring recovery mutual aid options. Further support may include problem-solving to remove barriers and companionship aimed at building recovery capital. Recovery capital refers to the personal, social, community, and cultural assets that can be utilized to facilitate the improvements in health and wellbeing necessary to both initiate and sustain long-term recovery.
Occasionally, peers will continue to work with clients for extended periods. The peer/client relationship is one of mutual respect and station. Peers aim at empowering continued personal growth in the pillars of health, home, community, and purpose. The transitions from formal supports, such as case managers, to informal supports, such as pastors, sponsors, and healthy friends, often mark progress in recovery and are strong determinants of future resilience.
A peer’s efficacy relies heavily on developing a deep knowledge of the recovery landscape in his or her service area and establishing relationships within that system, allowing them to advocate for others effectively. Peers are often active recovery community advocates, skilled at articulating the realities of ‘lived experience’ through timely and appropriate recounts of their personal stories. This evolution toward balance and inclusion provides tangible evidence that recovering people are a culture to be valued.
Peer Support Partners and Support Agencies
Indiana Association of Peer Recovery Support Services
Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addictions
Indiana Addictions Issues Coalition