Majosta Peer Recovery Support Specialist Training Program: Participant Workbook

Peer support is a behavioral health service available to individuals who are recovering from substance abuse or a co-occurring diagnosis. The services are delivered through individuals called Practitioners of Peer Support Services are called Peer and Recovery Support Specialists (PRSS). They are individuals who have suffered through similar experiences and have made good progress on their own personal journey in recovery. The intent of the service is to be a more personalized version of support than that of a 12-step program or natural support systems, where the PRSS shares skill learned along their journey while coaching and providing support. Peer support covers many aspects and depends upon the unique needs of the individual being served. Peer support services include, but are not limited to assistance with: Identifying needs of each individual, Developing recovery goals, Helping individuals to not feel alone, reducing feelings of isolation in their journey, Providing access and awareness to supports and resources available in the community, Exploring continued education and/or employment opportunities, Partnering with other healthcare practitioners, Overcoming service barriers, and Understanding, embracing, and positively adapting to behavioral health challenges using: Support groups, Coaching, Role modeling, and Mentoring. This training manual is equipped to educate participants on the role, requirements, and best practices of being a PRSS.