by Jim Hajny, Executive Director

July 1, 2025

The certified behavioral health peer support specialist workforce has faced many challenges since its inception 8 years ago. We fought to establish ourselves in the behavioral health system, we have had to educate and inform the public, and we have had to grow the workforce. MPN has been training peer supporters since 2015 long before certification went into effect in 2018. The basis for the training then and now is the National Practice Standards from SAMHSA. We have trained more than one thousand peer supporters during the last ten years which has provided us with a unique perspective on the workforce. We are not new to the game as are some of the other trainers. Nor are we from out of state here to get wealthy, then disappear after we get a check. We want to see a strong behavioral health peer support workforce now and into the future. In order to do that there needs to be a platform for identifying and addressing the issues. Montana lacks that platform. One that is free from outside influence. At MPN, we have tried many times over the years to participate in such an effort only for it to get corrupted, forcing us to step away. In this article I have broken down the most notable challenges in the behavioral health peer support workforce and some possible solutions.

Recovery experience

This is probably not a fixable challenge. Yet, it needs to be mentioned. There is a large difference between say the role of a sponsor in a 12-step program and a CBHPSS. The move to professionalism requires training, ethics, confidentiality and overall wellness. Sponsorship does not. Yet, this is where many CBHPSS come from. In the role of a CBHPSS we can offer many tools for recovery, not just one. Drop-in centers for example have difficulty finding qualified staff to employ, either the candidate doesn’t have enough time in recovery or is too fixed on one pathway. An effective CBHPSS needs stability, this is difficult work at times. Far too many peer supporters do not have the healthy foundation of recovery.

Training competencies

There are a number of 40 hour training courses approved by the Montana Board of Behavioral Health. Most are lacking and one should question how they ever got approved. For example, one is completely virtual and has no instruction on working in Montana. Another one is only for substance use peer support, despite Montana having a behavioral health focus on both mental health and substance use. MPN has been training for peer supporters since 2015 following the national standards outlined by SAMHSA and is also approved through the Veterans Administration. The MT Board of Behavioral Health needs to regulate the training curriculum they have approved.

Lack of sustainable funding

Despite there being millions of dollars available for peer support services funding is an issue due to the limited nature of availability. There is an effort underway to expand provider types for peer support Medicaid funding so maybe this will change soon. Private insurance (BCBS of MT) is making no effort to include peer support in its billable service array. Even though Minnesota BCBS approved it in 2024. This is the one area that needs strong advocacy here in Montana. Another challenge in this area is where organizations who cannot bill for peer support seek other service roles such as community health workers, behavioral health techs, life coaches instead of CBHPSS. This limits the number of peer supporters statewide because they are being replaced by other roles that are fundable.

Non recovery culture

Many behavioral health organizations across the state still do not embrace peer support services or support a recovery culture. Without a positive, healing environment peer support staff will not survive. Organizations need to start within before adding individuals in recovery. A culture that supports health and wellness. Most organizations are overworking their staff and lack a focus on their well being. If peer support staff are added to a medication-based culture of treatment it rarely works. Treatment is not recovery. Recovery is a person’s whole life not a check list for a specific amount of time. Support is an action itself. Recovery requires action too. A handful of former CBHPSS have moved forward on their career path to become licensed counselors. This is the best way to change the culture within behavioral health organizations. Fill them with professionals in recovery.

Lack of mental health support

The workforce lacks CBHPSS who have a recovery journey in mental health. At one time there was a mentoring program at Montana State Hospital, but it was ended right about the time certification went into effect. MPN was part of shaping that program. Most of the peer supporters who come through MPN’s training have a background in substance use with criminal justice backgrounds. This is being promoted within the justice system but not within mental health. We need more balance and finding the right fit for a CBHPSS plays a crucial role. A peer supporters lived experience should match their organization.

These are just a few of the challenges facing the CBHPSS workforce. In addition to this article, visit our training platform for a full presentation on this topic. Where I go in depth on each of the challenges and possible solutions. My hope is that we can work cohesively to address these challenges and find positive solutions. My fear is that peer supporters are overtaken and become part of the broken behavioral health system we in the recovery movement are advocating to change.

Created with Chat GPT and edited by Andi Daniel, Technology Coordinator

August 13, 2024

Whether you are a Certified Behavioral Health Peer Support Specialist, Family Peer Supporter, Recovery Coach or other peer support professional, continuing education is vital. Participating in professional development opportunities and skills trainings ensure that services remain effective, relevant, and capable of providing the highest quality support.

Enhancing Professional Skills and Competence

Continuing education is vital for developing and refining the skills necessary for effective peer support. While lived experience is invaluable, it alone may not be sufficient to navigate the complexities of peer support work. Formal training in communication skills, crisis intervention, ethics, and boundaries, for example, is essential to ensure that peer supporters can handle a variety of situations with professionalism and care.

One of the critical areas of focus in continuing education for peer supporters is trauma-informed care. Many individuals seeking peer support have experienced trauma, and it is essential for peer supporters to understand how to approach and support individuals with a trauma-informed perspective. This includes recognizing the signs of trauma, understanding its impact on behavior and emotions, and applying strategies that do not re-traumatize the individual or the peer supporter.

Additionally, continuing education helps peer supporters develop advanced skills in areas such as motivational interviewing, group facilitation, and conflict resolution. These skills are essential for fostering a supportive environment and empowering individuals to take an active role in their recovery journey.

Maintaining Ethical Standards

Ethics play a crucial role in peer support, and continuing education is key to ensuring that peer supporters adhere to the highest ethical standards. Peer supporters often work in situations where the lines between professional and personal relationships can become blurred. Continuing education provides guidance on maintaining appropriate boundaries, ensuring confidentiality, and managing dual relationships.

For instance, peer supporters may encounter situations where they know the person they are supporting from a previous relationship or community. Continuing education offers strategies for managing such situations ethically and professionally, ensuring that the support provided is always in the best interest of the individual seeking help.

As the field of peer support grows, so too does the need for clear and consistent ethical guidelines. Continuing education helps peer supporters stay informed about these evolving guidelines, ensuring that they are equipped to navigate complex ethical dilemmas.

Promoting Personal Growth and Well-being

Continuing education is not only about professional development but also about personal growth. Peer support work can be emotionally demanding, and it is essential for peer supporters to prioritize their own well-being. Engaging in continuing education can be a form of self-care, providing peer supporters with new perspectives, coping strategies, and a sense of accomplishment.

Learning new skills and gaining knowledge can boost confidence and self-efficacy, which are important for sustaining motivation and resilience in peer support work. Additionally, continuing education can help peer supporters recognize and manage burnout, compassion fatigue, and secondary trauma, which are common challenges in this field.

By investing in their own growth and well-being, peer supporters are better equipped to provide high-quality support to others. They can model healthy behaviors and self-care practices, demonstrating to those they support that recovery and well-being are lifelong processes that require ongoing effort and learning.

Building Credibility and Professionalism

As the field of peer support becomes more recognized and valued within the broader behavioral health and recovery communities, there is an increasing emphasis on professionalism and credibility. Continuing education is a critical component of building and maintaining this credibility. By engaging in ongoing training and certification, peer supporters can demonstrate their commitment to their role and their dedication to providing the best possible support.

For CBHPSS in Montana, continuing education is required. This not only ensures that peer supporters remain competent but also helps to standardize the quality of peer support services across different settings. As peer support becomes more integrated into formal healthcare and social service systems, continuing education is essential for ensuring that peer supporters can work effectively within these systems. This might involve learning about the legal and regulatory aspects of healthcare, understanding how to document and report on their work, or gaining familiarity with the interdisciplinary teams they may be part of.

Adapting to Changing Client Needs

The needs of individuals seeking peer support are diverse and constantly changing. Factors such as societal shifts, economic conditions, and global events can all impact the types of challenges people face and the support they require. Continuing education allows peer supporters to adapt to these changes by providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to address emerging issues.

For example, the COVID-19 pandemic brought about significant changes in the behavioral health landscape, with increased rates of anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. Peer supporters who engaged in continuing education were better prepared to address these challenges, whether through learning about virtual support methods or understanding the specific mental health impacts of the pandemic.

Continuing education can help peer supporters stay informed about new and emerging issues, such as the impact of social media on mental health, the rise in opioid use disorders, or the mental health needs of marginalized communities. By staying informed and adaptable, peer supporters can provide relevant and effective support, meeting individuals where they are and addressing the specific challenges they face.

Fostering a Culture of Lifelong Learning

Continuing education fosters a culture of lifelong learning within the peer support community. This culture is essential for both individual and collective growth. When peer supporters engage in ongoing learning, they contribute to a community that values knowledge, innovation, and continuous improvement.

A culture of lifelong learning also encourages peer supporters to share their knowledge and experiences with others, creating a supportive and collaborative environment. This might involve mentoring new peer supporters, participating in peer supervision groups, or contributing to the development of training programs. By actively engaging in continuing education, peer supporters can play a role in shaping the future of the field, ensuring that it remains vibrant, relevant, and responsive to the needs of those it serves.

A commitment to lifelong learning reflects the core principles of peer support itself—empowerment, recovery, and personal growth. Just as peer support encourages individuals to take an active role in their recovery, continuing education empowers peer supporters to take charge of their professional and personal development.

As the field of peer support continues to grow and evolve, the importance of continuing education will only increase. Peer supporters who commit to ongoing learning are not only investing in their own development but also in the well-being and recovery of those they support. In doing so, they uphold the values of peer support and contribute to a more compassionate, informed, and effective mental health and recovery community.

Are you looking for continuing educaiton opportunities? Check out our new learning platform!

by Mandy Waite, Assistant Director

November 7, 2023

Peer Support Specialists play a crucial role in the behavioral health field, offering empathetic understanding and lived experience to those in need. While their dedication is commendable, it's essential to recognize the immense value that career development can bring to their professional journey. Montana’s Peer Network continues to create opportunities for career development because we recognize the significance of investing in the growth and advancement of Peer Support Specialists, and how it not only benefits them personally but also contributes to the overall improvement of behavioral health services.

Empowerment and Self-Actualization

1. Enhancing Skill Set: Career development opportunities provide Peer Support Specialists with a platform to acquire new skills, further honing their abilities to connect with and support individuals on their recovery journeys.
2. Boosting Confidence: Gaining additional knowledge and skills instills confidence, enabling Peer Support Specialists to approach their roles with increased assurance and effectiveness.
3. Professional Identity: Ongoing career development helps Peer Support Specialists solidify their professional identity, recognizing the unique contributions they bring to the recovery and behavioral health landscapes.

Improved Client Care

1. Expanded Toolset: Through continuous learning and development, Peer Support Specialists are equipped with a broader range of strategies and interventions to offer tailored support to their peers.
2. Cultivating Cultural Humility: Professional growth opportunities facilitate a deeper understanding of cultural nuances and diverse perspectives, enabling Peer Support Specialists to better connect with individuals from varied backgrounds.
3. Staying Informed about Best Practices: Keeping abreast of the latest research and industry trends ensures that Peer Support Specialists are well-informed and able to implement evidence-based practices in their work.

Career Advancement and Opportunities

1. Vertical Growth: With access to career development resources, Peer Support Specialists can pursue higher-level positions, such as supervisory or managerial roles, allowing them to influence organizational strategies and policies.
2. Diversification of Roles: Through training and education, Peer Support Specialists can diversify their skill set, opening doors to new roles within the field, such as advocacy, education, or program development.
3. Increased Earning Potential: Professional development often correlates with increased earning potential, recognizing the value and expertise that Peer Support Specialists bring to their organizations.

Contribution to Organizational Success

1. Elevated Quality of Service: Well-trained and continuously developed Peer Support Specialists contribute to the overall quality of behavioral health services provided, enhancing the reputation and impact of their organizations.
2. Innovative Problem-Solving: Continued learning fosters a culture of innovation, enabling Peer Support Specialists to devise creative solutions to complex challenges within the behavioral health landscape.
3. Retention and Employee Satisfaction: Offering career development opportunities demonstrates an organizational commitment to the growth and well-being of Peer Support Specialists, leading to higher job satisfaction and retention rates.

Career Development Opportunities for Peer Support Specialists:

1. Certification and Training Programs:
   • Peer Support Specialists can participate in specialized programs that provide advanced training in areas such as suicide intervention (ASSIST), crisis intervention (CIT), or recovery planning (WRAP).
2. Continuing Education Courses:
   • Access to workshops, seminars, and training courses covering a range of topics relevant to recovery, behavioral health, and peer support. Montana’s Peer Network offers our PS102 Training modules for free, consisting of 9 standalone trainings, some in person and some virtual, including Trauma Informed Peer Support, Cultural Mindfulness, BHPSS Ethics, and Transcending Suicide.
3. Supervision and Mentorship Programs:
   • Pairing experienced Peer Support Specialists with newcomers in a mentorship or supervisory capacity allows for knowledge transfer, skill development, and guidance in navigating complex cases. Montana’s Peer Network has had a mentorship program for the last 3 years that has been focused on mentoring Peer Support Specialists throughout the state, as we move into this next year, we will also be focusing on mentoring organizations to help them create a culture that Peer Supporters will thrive in.
4. Conferences and Workshops:
   • Attending industry conferences and workshops provides opportunities to network with peers, learn about cutting-edge practices, and gain exposure to new research and interventions in the field. Montana’s Peer Network hosts our annual Recovery Conference in September and members get in free. We have multiple workshops, great networking opportunities, and we have a great time celebrating recovery. We may have something new in the works for this spring, so stay tuned for that.
5. Leadership and Management Training:
   • Programs that focus on leadership, management, and organizational development can prepare Peer Support Specialists for supervisory or managerial roles within their organizations. Montana’s Peer Network offers Peer Support Program Essentials and Provider / Employer training. Though they aren’t designed as management training per se, the trainings provide vital information on the foundational elements of successful Peer Support Programs.
6. Advanced Specializations:
   • Opportunities to specialize in areas like Family Peer Support, Youth Peer Support, or Forensic Peer Support allow Peer Support Specialists to serve specific populations with greater expertise. Though we don’t have specialty certifications at this time, Montana’s Peer Network is on the front lines advocating and building new trainings.
7. Advocacy and Policy Engagement:
   • Training and support for Peer Support Specialists interested in advocating for policy changes or participating in behavioral health advocacy efforts at local, regional, or national levels. Montana’s Peer Network is an advocacy organization, and we continue to support others that seek advocacy opportunities.
8. Publication Opportunities:
   • Involvement in writing articles, blogs, or being on podcasts related to recovery, behavioral health, and peer support can provide a platform for professional growth and recognition. Montana’s Peer Network publishes weekly blogs, and our Recovery Talks podcast is available on many platforms including SoundCloud, iTunes, Spotify, and now YouTube. If you’re interested in writing an article or being a guest on our podcast, please reach out!
9. Networking and Professional Associations:
   • Joining professional organizations and attending networking events can facilitate connections with colleagues, potential mentors, and leaders in the behavioral health and recovery communities. Montana’s Peer Network is currently collecting data on what Peer Supporters want in a state Peer Support Association. Missoula has done amazing at setting up networking events, through collaboration between United Way, SUD Connect, and community Peer Supporters, they host a luncheon every other month specifically for Peer Supporters to network and support each other. We would love to see similar events set up in communities across the state. Please reach out if you are interested in starting something like this in your community and we can get you in touch with those in Missoula that got this started.
10. Self-Care and Wellness Practices:
    • Training on self-care techniques and wellness practices is essential for Peer Support Specialists to maintain their own recovery and well-being, allowing them to continue providing effective support to others. Montana’s Peer Network understands the value of self-care and we specifically promote it in all of our trainings.
11. Online Communities and Forums:
    • Engaging in online forums and communities focused on recovery, behavioral health, and peer support can provide a platform for learning, sharing experiences, and accessing resources from a global community of peers. Throughout the years, Montana’s Peer Network has hosted many virtual networking events in an effort to create community across our large state. There are also a variety of other online community forums for peer support specialists.

These career development opportunities serve as a comprehensive guide to help Peer Support Specialists advance their skills, knowledge, and impact within the recovery community and behavioral health field. As you can see, Montana’s Peer Network is dedicated to creating opportunities for career development because we recognize the significance of investing in the growth and advancement of Peer Support Specialists.