Tag Archives: peer specialist

Living with Mental Wellness

Posted on January 7, 2016 by Susan Vaught

I have a group about living with mental illness on Wednesdays, and as a group, we decided to rename it to “Living with Mental Wellness.”  One of the things we discussed was taking the power away from our mental illnesses.  … Continue reading →

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Individual Autonomy and Peer Support

Posted on December 16, 2015 by Susan Vaught

    This is a note from a personal perspective:   I have studied the Peer Support Training Manual from front to back.  I know the evidence-based practices involved.  It is something that I must practice daily so to override … Continue reading →

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Ethics and Peer Support

Posted on July 23, 2015 by Susan Vaught

A Kentucky Peer Support Specialist is not a clinical professional. The specialist goes through certification to perform the job, but that certification alone does not replace the years of studying and experience of therapists and psychologists. Although we are not … Continue reading →

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The Role of a Recovery Story in Peer Support

Posted on June 18, 2015 by Susan Vaught

The sharing of one’s “Recovery Story” is the foundation upon what the rest of peer support is built.  A Recovery Story is the telling of the personal journey the Peer Support Specialist has been on in order to reach the … Continue reading →

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Compassion Fatigue

Posted on May 28, 2015 by Susan Vaught

As a Peer Support Specialist, I have to be very cautious about taking care of myself.  Yes, I am in recovery, but I am not cured. I still have what is considered a serious mental illness.  If I were to … Continue reading →

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Changing the expectations of those with mental illness

Posted on April 6, 2015 by Danielle McNeill

    It is important to ask the question, do we BELIEVE that the person we are working with can live a productive life?  At times it can be hard to do so.  The amount of trauma some individuals have … Continue reading →

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Effective Listening and Peer Support

Posted on March 27, 2015 by Susan Vaught

Effective Listening and Peer Support Services The Peer Support Specialist uses “Effective Listening” techniques when working with his or her peers (patients).  According to the Kentucky Peer Support training, the difference between listening and “effective” listening is that we know … Continue reading →

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