Certified Peer Support Services (PSS)
A Peer Support Specialist (PSS) works as a member on your Recovery Team to address feelings of stigma, social isolation, personal loss and other mental health barriers by modeling wellness and demonstrating personal responsibility, self-advocacy and hopefulness throughout the recovery journey. Services provided by PSS are self-directed and person-centered with a focus on recovery for each participant.
By sharing perspectives of their lived mental health experiences, a Peer Support Specialist builds a relationship and focuses on the strengths and potential of each person along your path of recovery.
PSS services can be provided wherever life happens—in the home, in the community or at our office. Services are a Medicaid billable. Our PSS team members are State Certified Peer Specialists.
Peer Support Recovery Plans may include the following person-centered/self-directed activities:
Education and skill-building:
- Wellness planning
- Crisis planning
- Advanced Psychiatric Directives
- Self-advocacy skills including connecting to professional services when appropriate
PSS help recipients to do the following:
- Identify their strengths and to use their strengths to reach their treatment goals
- Identify and overcome barriers to participation in community resources
Connect with resources, including:
- Visiting community resources to assist them in becoming familiar with potential opportunities
- Teaching and modeling the skills needed to successfully utilize community resources
Building relationships and encouraging community-based activities, such as:
- Work
- Relationships
- Physical activity
- Self-directed hobbies
Referrals and program questions can be directed to Amanda Okech at aokech@northlandcounseling.org or 218-326-5114
