CRSS - Certified Recovery Support Specialist Advocacy and Self-Determination Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following BEST describes the primary role of a CRSS in promoting self-determination for a person in recovery?
- To create a detailed recovery plan for the individual and ensure they follow it.
- To make decisions on behalf of the individual when they are unsure of which path to take.
- To support the individual in identifying their own goals and making their own informed choices. (Correct answer)
- To connect the individual only with resources and pathways that the CRSS has personally found effective.
Correct answer: To support the individual in identifying their own goals and making their own informed choices.
The core of self-determination is supporting individuals to be the leaders of their own recovery. A CRSS acts as a guide and a source of support, empowering individuals to define their own goals and choose their own paths based on good information, rather than making decisions for them.
Question 2: A peer you are supporting is hesitant to speak up during a meeting with their clinical care team. As their CRSS, how can you BEST advocate for them while respecting their self-determination?
- Speak for the peer, explaining to the team what you believe they want and need.
- Insist that the peer speak for themselves, as it is a necessary part of recovery.
- Interrupt the clinical team and demand they give the peer more time to talk.
- Ask the peer if they would like you to help them express their thoughts or if they'd prefer to write them down to share. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Ask the peer if they would like you to help them express their thoughts or if they'd prefer to write them down to share.
This approach empowers the peer by offering support without taking away their voice. It gives them choices (self-determination) on how to proceed and models collaborative advocacy. Speaking for them disempowers them, and insisting they speak can be counterproductive.
Question 3: Self-advocacy is a critical skill for long-term recovery. A CRSS can effectively teach this skill by:
- Completing all necessary paperwork for the peer to model efficiency.
- Providing the peer with a list of demands to present to their landlord.
- Sharing personal stories of self-advocacy and encouraging the peer to practice in real-life situations. (Correct answer)
- Attending all appointments with the peer and answering all questions for them.
Correct answer: Sharing personal stories of self-advocacy and encouraging the peer to practice in real-life situations.
Modeling self-advocacy through appropriate self-disclosure is a key function of a CRSS. Sharing personal experiences can teach and inspire, and encouraging the peer to practice in settings like doctor visits or job applications helps them build the skill and confidence for themselves.
Question 4: According to the CRSS code of ethics, the principle of self-determination must be balanced with which other consideration?
- The CRSS's personal recovery pathway.
- The preferences of the individual's family.
- The needs of others and the safety of society. (Correct answer)
- The financial constraints of the supporting agency.
Correct answer: The needs of others and the safety of society.
The CRSS Code of Ethics specifies that while individual choice is a cornerstone, it must be balanced by the need for the safety and support of not only the individual but also of others and the greater society.
Question 5: A CRSS is helping an individual explore housing options. The individual is considering a choice that the CRSS believes may be unstable. What is the most appropriate action for the CRSS to take?
- Tell the individual they cannot choose that option and select a better one for them.
- Contact the housing provider and warn them about the individual.
- Encourage the individual to weigh the pros and cons of all options and help them find more information. (Correct answer)
- Refuse to assist the individual further until they make a more responsible choice.
Correct answer: Encourage the individual to weigh the pros and cons of all options and help them find more information.
The role of the CRSS is to support informed decision-making, not to make the decision. By helping the individual explore the potential consequences (pros and cons) of their choice and access good information, the CRSS honors their self-determination while still providing valuable support.
Question 6: Which of the following is an example of 'systems advocacy' that a CRSS might engage in?
- Helping a single peer fill out an application for benefits.
- Sharing their personal recovery story in a one-on-one meeting.
- Attending a community meeting to speak about the need for more recovery-friendly employment opportunities. (Correct answer)
- Driving an individual to a medical appointment.
Correct answer: Attending a community meeting to speak about the need for more recovery-friendly employment opportunities.
Systems advocacy involves working to create change at an organizational or community level that will benefit groups of people, not just one individual. Advocating for better employment opportunities is a classic example of working to improve the system for all people in recovery.
CRSS - Certified Recovery Support Specialist Advocacy and Self-Determination Questions and Answers
Which of the following BEST describes the primary role of a CRSS in promoting self-determination for a person in recovery?