Principles of Strengths-Based Recovery (Core Competencies: 1.1; 1.3; 1.7; 1.8; 1.9; 1.10; 1.11; 2.5; 2.7; 2.8; 2.10; 3.3; 4.1; 4.9; 4.10) The traditional mental health and substance use services system is highly influenced by the medical model. The medical model focuses on diagnosis and treatment in order to maintain an individual’s stability. The approach examines an individual’s deficits, assesses symptoms, makes a diagnosis, and treats symptoms. It is a disease-centered approach. In recent years, a movement has emerged to challenge the medical model approach to care. The new approach focuses on person-centered care with an emphasis on an individual’s strengths and the possibilities of recovery. This approach allows treatment providers and certified peer specialists to acknowledge that people are not their symptoms and that everyone has a unique set of strengths and abilities that can foster recovery, health, and wellness. The certified peer specialist profession is firmly rooted in the person-centered, strengths-based, and recovery-oriented approach to care. The following recovery principles guide the process of providing effective peer support. • The focus is on the person’s strengths—not pathology, symptoms, weaknesses, problems, or deficits. The certified peer specialist and peer work together to identify strengths for the peer to work towards achieving their hopes and dreams. • Community engagement and relationships are viewed as a source of support, not as obstacles to a person’s recovery. The certified peer specialist believes that healing happens in relationships. People benefit when connected to natural supports and resources in their community. Cultures and communities are rich with resources and supports that benefit people seeking meaningful living, recovery, and connection. Acknowledging the embedded support systems in communities helps certified peer specialists engage peers in a way that honors their unique cultures. • Support is based on the principle of a person’s self-determination. Nothing should be done without the peer’s input and approval. A certified peer specialist believes in the right of every person to make their own informed decisions about how to navigate their lives. The freedom to take risks and self-direct a person’s own life is a cornerstone of peer support. • The peer relationship is unique and essential. The certified peer specialist is able to be there with the person they are supporting when life becomes difficult, or they express they are in crisis. Having a trusted professional and supportive
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