Question

When becoming a certified peer recovery specialist why is it important to mentor and educate on support the development of effective communication skills, problem solving and conflict resolution skills? How could these skills help you in your profession

Answer 1

Before discussing the skills of a peer recovery specialist, let’s learn more about these specialists. A peer specialist refers to an individual who has had lived experience of having initiated his own recovery journey from mental illness or other substance use disorder. These specialists then assist other patients who are in earlier stages of mental recovery process.

One of the key skills that are requisite if you wish to become a peer recovery specialist is that of effective and impressive communication skills. Unless the recovery specialist possesses outstanding communication skills, he/she may have to work really hard to he even listened to by the consumers. Therefore, communication is the key to initiating a dialogue between a patient and a peer recovery specialist. Furthermore, your ability to solve problems and resolve conflicts can help ascertain the success of the entire rehabilitation program. A good healthcare provider or peer specialist will make sure that the patient feels comfortable and doesn’t hesitate while trying to reach out to his/her peer recovery specialists whenever he/she feels the need of someone being there. Developing these skills will not only help a peer recovery specialist in his/her profession but will also fasten the process of recovery and rehabilitation for the consumer.