Concluding the Peer Relationship (Core Competencies: 1.1; 1.7; 1.10; 2.7; 2.8; 3.2; 3.3; 3.5; 4.1; 4.4; 4.7; 4.12) Although concluding the peer relationship happens at the end of peer support services, the process begins long before a specific end date. To conclude the peer relationship in a positive and supportive manner, certified peer specialists should consider the following. • Agencies have guidelines for the duration of peer support services. The approximate duration of services is sometimes known from the start. For example, a person may be served for few months in a crisis stabilization program or around one week at a peer-run respite. It is important that a certified peer specialist clearly communicate guidelines about the duration of services. • If the guidelines are open-ended and flexible, duration of services is an important topic for exploration. The mutual nature of the peer relationship means that the peer's wishes and desires for continuing (or not continuing) in services is the priority. The certified peer specialist also gets to consider their own boundaries and capacity for continuing the relationship. • Many certified peer specialists are expected to define, monitor, and report service goals and progress as a part of funding requirements. This can present a challenge and an opportunity for advocating with the peer to continue services. • Sometimes an abrupt end to services can occur, such as a significant life event or change in priorities and time commitments. Because of the unique relationship created in peer support, saying goodbye can bring forth a range of experiences and emotions for the peer and the certified peer specialist. While every individual will have a unique experience, consider the following: • Certified peer specialist o It can be difficult to conclude a close, good working relationship. You witnessed the peer’s personal growth in an intimate way. The peer may have started or continued in their recovery with your support. You may have learned quite a bit about yourself personally and professionally. o Normal emotions include sadness, as well as excitement, hopefulness, and joyfulness. It is important to be self-aware of your emotions. o If concluding the relationship is based on a peer’s resurgence of struggles (example: hospitalization), this can be disheartening. Yet, it is important to remember that recovery is a non-linear, ongoing process.
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