What is a Peer Recovery Support Specialist?

Our Peer Recovery Support Specialists are people with lived experience who have been through situations similar to those they support. They have been successful in recovery and have firsthand knowledge of the healing process.  While a peer support specialist does not substitute or replace treatment with a healthcare provider when it is needed, they can provide a unique layer of support.

Call to meet with a Recovery Coach.

​928.337.4000

What does a Peer Recovery Support Specialist do?

Recovery is a process that may include many types of support, including clinical treatment with a healthcare provider, social support, medication, peer support and self-help groups, and faith-based strategies.

Peer support specialists help with this process and provide other services, including reducing stigma, improving a person’s quality of life in recovery, and reducing the need for certain health services. 
The role or work of a peer support specialist may include:

• ​Cultivating relationships built on trust, respect, empathy, mutual experience, and choice
• Offering support through validation, encouragement, empowerment, and highlighting strengths 
• Sharing their personal experience (when appropriate) to inspire hope
• Recognizing a person's personal beliefs, cultural values, previous experiences, and individual needs
• Providing education about recovery, advocating for oneself, and how to navigate treatment or the healthcare system
• Educating the public or lawmakers
• Assisting during crises by discussing warning signs, healthy coping, and sharing resources
• Overseeing the work of other peer support specialists
• Peer support services are often successful in addition to other professional mental health or medical services.