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Robin; I have been working with a number of states on their Peer Certification Programs. It is surprising to see the wide variation between the states involved. Another national group that has certifications is the USPRA-US Psychiatric Rehabilitation Assoc. I would like to hear from you on your experiece in these areas. Regards; Jim Blaha jjbgeneva@aol.com
Jim:
Geuss what? I was hoping to get a reply from someone that has experience with peer counseling programs. You are the first one to respond and your experience is outstanding.
Although I did some volunteer "peer counseling" about fifteen years ago, the program in which I was involved was rudimentary. I also worked for three months in a state mental hospital as a "student therapist." Some of the things I did anticipated peer counseling. [None of professionals knew that I was actively psychotic at the time, but the individual I was counseling figured it out almost immediately. This was important to the relationship we developed and what came out of it.] But, the short answer to your question is that I have had very little experience with peer counseling as it is practiced today.
I have two friends who are certified peer couselors here in New Jersey. They love what they are doing becuase they like working with people and are making a very significant contribution to the welfare of the individuals they counsel. I believe that they are also making an important contribution to our society as a whole. As consumers, they bring something to the table that non-consumers cannot. They've been there and done that. The two are also pleased to have steady employment and benefits. To my knowledge, neither has complained about their salary.
The fact that you have worked with a number of states on their Peer Certification Programs gives you a rare perspective on the whole concept and the systems being built to deliver the service, and probably it's effectiveness as well.
It would be terrific if you were to share, in one or more blogs, some of what you know about peer counseling. I know I would be very grateful.
Robin
Robin; I see you are on the N.J. NAMI board. They tell you what is going on in you state for training & certification of "peer specialists" Nami national can also provide info. Two web sites & organizations I recommend: www.usrpa.org & www.DBSAlliance.org. Let me know how you make out. Regards; Jim
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Dear Robin: Your question raises a difficult ethical dilemma. I have seen similar instances like that one several times. While living in a suburb of Vancouver some years ago, consumers were offered different jobs at even half minimum wage. Incidentally when I wrote about my community here on Vancouver Island being completely sympathetic in the workplace toward mental health consumers, I was in fact speaking of just a few companies. Back to the question. Here in British Columbia the PWD (Persons With Disabilities) monthly welfare guaranteed income is $906.00/ CAN. The government will allow you to make $500.00 as well before the garnish your gov. cheque. There is a volunteer peer - support program here but the real issue is are the mentally ill human beings ? Or are we second-class creatures. In my opinion, if someone has the skills and does the job, he/she has the right to the same wage as anybody else.
Yours,
Don Fraser