Sharing Information (Core Competencies: 1.4; 1.10; 2.7; 2.8; 3.5; 3.6; 4.2; 4.4; 4.9; 4.10; 4.16) Sharing information is an important part of the peer support process. Peers may have limited information about pathways to recovery, recovery resources, and ways to navigate complex systems. Knowing when and how to share information is an important certified peer specialist skill. Principles of effective information sharing Peers are the experts on themselves . Peers bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and wisdom. A certified peer specialist takes time to find out what the peer already knows because sharing information that a peer already possesses may be perceived as redundant or unhelpful. Affirmation can be used to highlight the peer’s existing knowledge and wisdom. A certified peer specialist is curious. Sharing information is a collaborative search to understand the peer’s challenges, strengths, and information needs. To ensure that information is helpful, a certified peer specialist asks the peer what information might be valuable. In other words, curiosity drives the effort to understand the peer’s information needs. Approaching with curiosity and asking the peer what they find valuable are two examples of the skill of exploration. Understanding what is important to the peer minimizes any biases about what the certified peer specialist believes is important. A certified peer specialist uses open questions to draw out the peer’s information needs and uses reflective listening to ensure accurate understanding. Information is shared in a way that enhances peer autonomy. Information should be shared in a neutral and respectful manner. It is up to the peer to decide how the information may be relevant to their situation. Information from a certified peer specialist is offered in the spirit of acceptance that the peer has the right to use (or not use) the information as the peer sees fit. In other words, information is only shared after first obtaining the peer’s interest or permission. Obtaining permission before sharing information enhances peer autonomy and the right to self-determination. Power differentials are recognized and acknowledged. Certified peer specialists understand that they are in a position of power over the person they are supporting due to their professional standing and experience. They strive to ensure that they do not use their position of power to exert undue influence on the peer, to provide advice disguised as information, or to censor information that may be relevant. Additionally, a certified peer specialist must always acknowledge the power dynamics of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, ability, etc., that shows up in the peer relationship.
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