Abstract
The positive impacts of peer to peer interaction during mental health service interventions is well-known in the field. The value of lived experience, especially where linguistic or cultural backgrounds are also relatable, is well-documented in the process of recovery. Until landmark legislation in 2020, California, the most populous and diverse state in the USA, did not have hiring opportunities for peers in the mental health system except as volunteers. Advocacy groups persisted in acknowledging the value of peers in mental health interventions through lobbying, focus groups, and data supporting the effectiveness of peer interventions. Over the past decade, persistent attempts to create equity and career advancement for peers in the mental health system had not been successful. Breakthrough legislation in 2022 created competencies for peer certification as well as reimbursement avenues for services provided. The legislation, SB803, brought peer providers into full employment status within mental health organizations and opened opportunities for a career ladder as well. The poster includes prior efforts and successes in other states, then primarily the landmark inclusions of the legislation: definitions, competencies, intended opportunities and mandates for organizations to establish peer positions within their service structure. Implementation will create more diverse organizations and will offer an expansion of valuable mental health resources in the community served.
Presenters
Dale MuellerFull Professor, College of Health, Human Services and Nursing, California State University Dominguez Hills, California, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
KEYWORDS
Diversity, Inclusion, Employment, Policy, Organizations
