Understanding Certified Peer Recovery Specialists: The Essence is Connection

ABSTRACT

As peer recovery specialists become more essential members of the continuum of care for people who use substances, gaps exist in our understanding of peers. This study tried to understand what attracted people to become Certified Peer Recovery Specialists, how they transitioned to embrace the approach, and how they stayed true to the model as it may not align with their personal recovery pathway. This qualitative study consisted of in-depth interviews with Certified Peer Recovery Specialists (n = 18) and thematic analysis of those interviews. One overarching theme was the importance of connection in all aspects of peer work. Regardless of their initial reactions, all participants reported buying into the multiple pathways and person-centered approach by the completion of the certification process. Peers also described an appreciation for the structures of support provided by agencies such as supervision to maintain fidelity to the model.

KEYWORDS:

• connection
• lived experience
• peers
• recovery
• substance use

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Additional information

Funding

This manuscript was supported by the Office of the Provost at Ramapo College of New Jersey through Faculty Development Funding.