National Practice Guidelines for Peer Support Specialists and Supervisors

Area of Science:

• Mental Health
• Social Work
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Growing concerns identified regarding supervision conflicting with peer support values.
• Existing guidelines lacked specific direction for supervisors.
• Need for specialized guidance in nonclinical peer support roles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To revise the National Practice Guidelines for Peer Supporters.
• To incorporate specific guidance for supervisors of peer support workers.
• To ensure supervision aligns with core peer support values.

Main Methods:

• Formation of a dedicated work group by the National Association of Peer Supporters (N.A.P.S.).
• Revision of the 2013 National Practice Guidelines for Peer Supporters.
• Inclusion of specific sections for supervisors.

Main Results:

• Publication of the National Practice Guidelines for Peer Specialists and Supervisors.
• Guidelines provide expertise and practical advice for supervisors.
• Focus on understanding mutual support and managing role complexities.

Conclusions:

• Revised guidelines address critical needs in peer support supervision.
• Enhanced guidance supports supervisors in diverse healthcare settings.
• Promotes consistent application of peer support values in practice.