Incorporating Peer Support Into Substance Use Disorder Treatment Part 1: An Introduction to Peer Support Services

Course overview

Series Overview: This course is part of a two-course series on Peer Support in Substance Use Disorder Treatment Services Peer support services can enrich substance use disorder (SUD) treatment when used in tandem with traditional substance use intervention and recovery programs. This series uses the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's TIP 64 Incorporating Peer Support into Substance Use Disorder Treatment Services to present information regarding the key features, functions, and uses of peer support services. Providers working with individuals and families affected by SUDs can use this information to expand their knowledge base about the integration of these services and apply best practice approaches to SUDs care. The courses in this Peer Support in Substance Use Disorder Treatment Services series are: An Introduction to Peer Support Services Peer Specialists in Practice Peer support services enhance traditional substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and services by connecting people who are experiencing problematic substance use to others who have lived experience with problematic substance use and recovery. Peer support services have experienced rapid growth and improve treatment outcomes; however, many providers are unfamiliar with and unknowledgeable about this effective intervention. This two-part course series is designed for social workers, psychologists, counselors, and marriage and family therapists in care continuums who work with those affected by SUDs. It examines the key aspects and functions of peer support services and educates providers about peer support workers' services and skills. This learning material, which uses the executive summary and Chapters 1-3 from TIP 64 Incorporating Peer Support into Substance Use Disorder Treatment Services, introduces key concepts related to peer support services, distinguishes the role of peer workers on a care team, describes core functions of peer workers, and explains challenges of being a peer worker. It also illuminates key learning points with case examples.