CPSS Recovery Principles & Peer Support Practices 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following best describes the concept of 'self-determination' in peer support?
- The peer specialist makes decisions on behalf of the person in recovery
- The person in recovery directs their own recovery journey and choices (Correct answer)
- The treatment team determines the best recovery path for the individual
- Self-determination only applies to medication management decisions
Correct answer: The person in recovery directs their own recovery journey and choices
Self-determination means the person in recovery has the authority and agency to make their own choices about their recovery path.
Question 2: A peer specialist notices a peer they support has stopped attending their recovery group. What is the MOST appropriate first response?
- Report the absence to the peer's treatment team immediately
- Reach out to the peer with curiosity and non-judgment to check in (Correct answer)
- Inform family members so they can intervene
- Document the behavior and wait for the peer to return on their own
Correct answer: Reach out to the peer with curiosity and non-judgment to check in
A non-judgmental check-in honors the peer's autonomy while maintaining a supportive relationship.
Question 3: In North Carolina's peer support model, what does 'mutuality' in the peer relationship primarily mean?
- Both individuals must have identical diagnoses
- The peer specialist and peer share a reciprocal, two-way relationship based on shared lived experience (Correct answer)
- The peer specialist must disclose all personal details to the peer
- Both parties must attend the same support groups
Correct answer: The peer specialist and peer share a reciprocal, two-way relationship based on shared lived experience
Mutuality refers to the reciprocal nature of the relationship where both parties can learn and grow from each other.
Question 4: When is it appropriate for a peer specialist to share their own recovery story?
- Whenever the peer specialist feels comfortable doing so
- Only when the peer specialist's supervisor gives explicit permission
- When it is purposeful, relevant, and likely to benefit the person being supported (Correct answer)
- Only during formal intake assessments
Correct answer: When it is purposeful, relevant, and likely to benefit the person being supported
Intentional self-disclosure should be purposeful and serve the peer's recovery, not the peer specialist's need to share.
Question 5: Which recovery principle emphasizes that people can recover regardless of the severity of their mental health or substance use condition?
- Hope (Correct answer)
- Person-centered care
- Empowerment
- Holistic approach
Correct answer: Hope
Hope is the foundational principle that recovery is possible for anyone, regardless of diagnosis or history.
Question 6: A peer specialist disagrees with a treatment decision made for someone they support. What should the peer specialist do?
- Override the decision by advising the peer to ignore it
- Support the peer in advocating for themselves through appropriate channels (Correct answer)
- Stay silent to avoid conflict with the clinical team
- Immediately file a formal complaint on the peer's behalf
Correct answer: Support the peer in advocating for themselves through appropriate channels
Peer specialists empower individuals to self-advocate rather than advocating unilaterally or ignoring systemic concerns.
Question 7: Which of the following is an example of 'peer support' that aligns with NC CPSS principles?
- A licensed therapist providing cognitive behavioral therapy sessions
- A person with lived experience of recovery helping another person navigate crisis resources (Correct answer)
- A family member monitoring a loved one's medication schedule
- A case manager completing benefits paperwork for a client
Correct answer: A person with lived experience of recovery helping another person navigate crisis resources
Peer support is defined by the use of shared lived experience to support others in their recovery journey.
CPSS Recovery Principles & Peer Support Practices 2
Which of the following best describes the concept of 'self-determination' in peer support?