In Texas a certified Recovery Support Peer Specialist (RSPS) is a person who uses lived experience in recovery from a substance use disorder*, in addition to skills learned in formal training, to deliver strengths-based, person-centered services to promote a recipient’s recovery and resiliency.
All peer specialist services are recovery-oriented, person-centered, relationship-focused, and trauma-informed.
Peer specialist services may include:
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Recovery and wellness support – includes providing information on and support with planning for recovery
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Mentoring – includes serving as a role model and providing assistance in finding needed community resources and services
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Advocacy – includes providing support in stressful or urgent situations and helping to ensure that the recipient’s rights are respected
Services may be provided individually or in a group
Peer support is always voluntary!
*Substance use disorder–A recurrent use of alcohol or drugs that causes clinically and functionally significant impairment, such as health problems, disability, and failure to meet major responsibilities at work, school, or home.