Affiliations: School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University,
ON, Canada | Hamilton Program for Schizophrenia, Canada | Private Practice, Canada | Ontario Peer Development Initiative, ON, Canada
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Sandra Moll, PhD (Cand), OT Reg
(Ont.), School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, 1400 Main St.
W., Hamilton, ON, L8S 1C7, Canada. Tel.: +1 905 525 9140 ext. 23523; Fax: +1
905 524 0069; E-mail: molls@mcmaster.ca
Abstract: Background: Peer support is gaining recognition as a valuable
component of mental health service delivery, and a meaningful employment
opportunity for mental health consumers. Despite the potential benefits of peer
support, there continues to be many barriers to the development and funding of
peer positions. Method: The overall purpose of this multi-site project
was to build capacity for employment of trained peer providers in local,
community-based mental health programs. A collective case study approach was
adopted to explore how peer support was integrated into traditional mental
health services. In-depth interviews were conducted with both new and
established peer providers and their managers in six different programs. Findings: Analysis of interview transcripts led to identification of key work
transitions for peer support workers, from defining and establishing roles, to
negotiating the learning curve, and dealing with the challenges associated with
their unique role as both consumer and provider. Conclusion: Effective
integration of peer support requires consideration of the work role, unique
needs of the worker, and the overall workplace environment. Integrating peer
support providers is a process that evolves over time and does not end once
someone is hired.
Keywords: Mental illness, employment, peer support, case study
