Benefits of working as a certified peer specialist: results from a statewide survey

Psychiatr Rehabil J. 2013 Sep;36(3):219-21. doi: 10.1037/prj0000016.

Abstract

Objective: Certified peer specialists (CPSs) are an emerging workforce across the United States and are a critical component of recovery-oriented mental health systems. This study examined possible benefits of working as a CPS.

Method: A statewide survey of trained CPSs in Pennsylvania was conducted in Winter/Spring 2010. A total of 271 CPSs responded to the online survey. Data from 154 working CPSs were analyzed.

Results: Forty-one respondents (28.7%) were not working prior to their CPS employment and 60% of all respondents reported a decrease in Social Security entitlements. Statistically significant reductions were reported in case management, crisis services, and inpatient hospitalizations. Finally, respondents overwhelmingly reported personal, recovery-oriented benefits, and felt that they have a positive impact on their agencies.

Conclusion and implications for practice: CPS initiatives appear to benefit the individual CPS worker and may result in societal cost savings. These results further expand the potential value of peer-support services.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Case Management
  • Certification*
  • Cost Savings
  • Employment / psychology*
  • Employment / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • Health Care Surveys / statistics & numerical data
  • Health Personnel*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / rehabilitation*
  • Mental Health Services / statistics & numerical data*
  • Middle Aged
  • Peer Group
  • Pennsylvania
  • Social Security / economics