Wisconsin Peer Specialist Certification Exam Comprehensive Study Guide

Transcription

1 Page1 Keeping Pure to Peer Wisconsin Peer Specialist Certification Exam Comprehensive Study Guide Fifth Edition February 2013 Developed by the Wisconsin Association of Peer Specialists, Inc. 926 South 16 th Avenue Wausau, WI

2 Page2 COMPREHENSIVE STUDY GUIDE FOR THE WISCONSIN PEER SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION EXAM TABLE OF CONTENTS Wisconsin Peer Specialist Certification Exam 3 Map of Testing Sites. 4 Introduction to the Study Guide.. 5 Wisconsin Peer Specialist Training Core Competencies 7 Wisconsin Peer Specialist Code of Conduct.. 10 General Wisconsin Adult Mental Health Certified Peer Specialist Position Description.. 12 Wisconsin Peer Specialist Exam Domains and Objectives/Sample Questions 15 Study Guide Answer Key 34 For More Assistance/Study Groups.. 35 THIS STUDY GUIDE HAS BEEN REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY THE WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SERVICE; BUREAU OF PREVENTION, TREATMENT AND RECOVERY; WISCONSIN RECOVERY COORDINATOR, LALENA LAMPE.

3 Page3 WISCONSIN PEER SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION EXAM Regardless of your current profession or employment, please remember that you are taking the Wisconsin Peer Specialist Certification Exam from the perspective of a Certified Peer Specialist, incorporating the competencies, domains, Code of Conduct and WI General Job Description into practice. Your answers to exam questions should be based on the following documents (and not on training course specifics): the Wisconsin Core Training Competencies (as applied to your course training materials), the Wisconsin Peer Specialist Code of Conduct (vs. agency rules and regulations) and the general Wisconsin Adult Mental Health Certified Peer Specialist position description (vs. agency job descriptions). The Wisconsin Peer Specialist Certification test is designed to evaluate your understanding and knowledge of the duties, responsibilities and roles of a Certified Peer Specialist in Wisconsin. The exam application packet and guidelines can be downloaded at the UW-Milwaukee website: To request reasonable accommodation for the exam contact Alice Pauser, Wisconsin Peer Specialist Program Coordinator at or , Ext. 224 or alicep@accesstoind.org Complete applications, required documentation and payment must be received (not postmarked) by the deadlines that are listed on the UW-Milwaukee and WI CPS website. These deadlines are also regularly updated on the Wisconsin Association of Peer Specialists, Inc. website: Do not FAX or your application, it must be United States Postal Service postmarked. It is recommended that you read your packet thoroughly. It contains important information that will be included in the examination. The passing score on the exam is 85%. You will receive a letter containing your test score. Upon successful completion of the required components, Certification document will be issued to you by the State of Wisconsin, within 30 days of passing the exam. All exams are given on line at the Independent Living Centers in Wisconsin (WILC) unless notified otherwise. You will be notified by from UW-Milwaukee as to your test site, date/time one week; prior to the exam. PLEASE DO NOT CALL UW-MILWAUKEE or the Independent Living Centers. Contact Alice Pauser, Wisconsin Peer Specialists Coordinator, at Ext. 224 or if you need assistance. To locate the center nearest you, see the map on the next page. Please notify UW-Milwaukee of any changes to your , regular mailing address or telephone number.

4 Page4 Wisconsin Coalition of Independent Living Centers North Country Independent Living 69 N 28th St Suite 28 Superior WI (V/TTY) (fax) (toll-free) Midstate Independent Living Consultants 3262 Church St. Ste 1 Stevens Point WI (V/TTY) (fax) (toll-free) Options for Independent Living 555 Country Club Road P.O. Box Green Bay, WI (V) (TTY) (fax) (toll-free) Center for Independent Living Western WI 2920 Schneider Ave E Menomonie, WI (V/TTY) (Fax) (toll-free) Independent Living Resources 4439 Mormon Coulee Road LaCrosse, WI (V) (TTY) (FAX) (toll-free) Wisconsin Coalition of Independent Living Centers 3810 Milwaukee St. Madison, WI (Cell) Access to Independence 3810 Milwaukee St. Madison, WI (V) (TTY) (FAX) (V) (toll-free) IndependenceFirst 540 S. 1 st Street Milwaukee, WI (V/TTY) (FAX) (toll-free) Society s Assets 5200 Washington Ave. Suite 225 Racine, WI (V/TTY) (FAX) (toll-free)

5 Page5 The exam is computerized and given on the internet. You do not need to be a computer expert to take the exam. However, you MUST have an address to log-in at the assigned test site. If you do not have an address, you can obtain one free from Hotmail, Google or Yahoo. Not sure how to do this, call the Wisconsin Association of Peer Specialists at or Alice Pauser, Wisconsin Peer Specialist Coordinator at Extension 224. Reasonable accommodations due to disability can be arranged upon request by submitting a Reasonable Accommodations Request form to Alice Pauser. The form can be found at: or call Alice Pauser, Extension 224, to have a copy mailed to you. The Americans with Disabilities Act defines reasonable accommodations and is used to recognize requests. Reasonable accommodations include, but are not limited to: someone reading the exam to you to accommodate a visual or learning The dates for the exams and application deadlines will be announced in the following places: Wisconsin Association of Peer Specialists, Inc. website, Certification page at (Updated when WAPS receives updates from the WI Peer Specialist Program Coordinator) UW-Milwaukee Peer Specialist Certification Exam Web page: Wisconsin Certified Peer Specialist Employment Initiative Website: The exam is comprised of approximately 62 multiple choice questions. You will be given three (3) hours to complete the exam. The exam is proctored (supervised) by staff at the Independent Living Center or alternate test site if necessary. The proctor is there to assist you should you encounter any technical computer problems during the exam. You may not bring or use any notes, books or other resources while taking the exam. There is to be no paper, pencils or pens in the area where the exam is being given. You may not take any notes while taking the exam. If you are late by 15 minutes or more for the exam, you WILL NOT be allowed to take it and will need to reschedule your exam date. This means that a reschedule will cost you a $25.00 rescheduling fee.

6 Page6 INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY GUIDE This guide is intended to assist you in preparing to take the Wisconsin Peer Specialist Certification Exam. IT IS NOT THE EXAM ITSELF. HELPFUL HINTS TO STUDY FOR THE EXAM: Review all of materials from your training course. Try to tie those materials to the Core Competencies, the Code of Conduct and/or the WI General Adult Mental Health Peer Specialist position description. Attend a study group in your area or form a study group with others. The Wisconsin Association of Peer Specialists can provide a guided facilitation study group to 6 students or more at one location, please either call ( ) OR us (if you have 6 or more interested students in your area) at waops@live.com. There is a fee of $15.00/person for this service, lunch is included. You can also contact the Association through the website Contact Us page on our website at: Pay careful attention to the wording on the state documents, as this will, on the test, direct you to the correct choice of answer on the test. CAREFULLY REVIEW ALL OF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS: Wisconsin Peer Specialist Core Training Competencies Wisconsin Peer Specialist Code of Conduct Wisconsin General Adult Mental Health Certified Peer Specialist Position Description Wisconsin Peer Specialist Domains and Objectives Answer Key to sample questions in this manual, which are intended as practice for the test (THESE ARE NOT QUESTIONS ON THE EXAM, BUT MERELY EXAMPLES OF QUESTIONS THAT MIGHT BE POSED ON THE EXAM) can be found at the end of this Peer Specialist Certification Guide. REMEMBER THAT THE CERTIFICATION EXAM IS VERY COMPREHENSIVE AND THOROUGHLY TESTS YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE DUTIES, RESPONSIBILITIES AND ROLES OF A PEER SPECIALIST IN WISCONSIN, SO STUDY THOROUGHLY!

7 Page7 Wisconsin Peer Specialist Core Training Competencies There are four curriculums approved in Wisconsin for the training of Certified Peer Specialists. Those four trainings are: Consumer as Provider (CAP), Depression and Bi-Polar Support Alliance (DBSA), National Association of Peer Specialists (NAPS) and Recovery Innovations (RI-formerly known as META) In the following pages, you will become familiar with the competencies and be provided with a sample test question regarding the WI Core Competencies, Code of Conduct and WI General Peer Specialist Job Description. When a course DOES NOT teach the competency in its base curriculum, it will be noted in red. When taking the course in the state of Wisconsin, in most cases, modules will be added to cover missing competencies. If these competencies are not covered in trainings outside Wisconsin, it is the responsibility of the individual to seek training on them. Values and personal abilities, in most cases, are beliefs no curriculum can teach. Course discussions and assignments can shape or challenge students beliefs in those areas, which cannot be accurately reflected or measured by exam. The title of this section is competencies and not measures of content. VALUES: Believe in the importance of consumer-directed services Have an outlook on life that inspires hope Believe that growth and change are possible Have the capacity to care/empathy Have a non-judgmental attitude Value consumer choice Have respect for other cultures, sexual orientation, spiritual beliefs, and family culture Believe in empowerment Have respect for confidentiality and all other consumer rights PERSONAL ABILITIES: Is able to utilize own experience and translate this experience to others with mental illness and/or substance abuse issues Has self-awareness and is able to use self to inspire others Is able to make good decisions/be a good role model/exercise options Possesses problem-solving skills Can help people explore choices and consequences Has self knowledge about own recovery and sets personal boundaries Can support own recovery while helping someone else Is able to let people help themselves empower them

8 Page8 Recognizes others strengths and challenges Is flexible, open minded and tolerant Is patient and resilient Is able to work collaboratively/participate on a team (CAP: ONLY IF INTERNSHIP) Openness to learning and continuing education Knowledge is gleaned from manuals and the actual training curriculums for Peer Specialists. Some knowledge is not taught by all approved training curriculums. This guide will note which courses DO NOT cover a particular knowledge area. If your training did not cover a knowledge area, you may wish to do some research and learn specifics to that area. KNOWLEDGE: In depth knowledge of recovery Ethics, boundaries and healthy relationships Owns strengths and weak spots General understanding of mental illness and substance abuse, and treatments/services/supports The role of spirituality in recovery The role of sexuality in recovery (not in CAP or NAPS base curriculums) Knowledge of the impact of trauma on recovery How to find information about a variety of community resources Consumer Rights-as defined in Wisconsin by a combination of patient rights, ADA standards and civil rights as afforded to all citizens (not in any of the 4 curriculums if taught outside WI) Confidentiality-HIPPA standards and client rights as determined by the WI Dept. of Health Services, Chapter 51 WI Statutes and WI Administrative Code DHF 94 and 92 (not in any of the 4 curriculums if taught outside WI) Cultural awareness-have a basic knowledge of diverse cultures and how they may impact individual values, choices and lifestyles. Stigma-knowledge of the impact of discrimination, marginalization and oppression that society places upon individuals with mental illnesses. Self Stigma is the defining of one s self by diagnosis, limitations and/or illness based perceptions. Role of Peer Support Specialist-as defined by the essential functions outlined in the General Wisconsin Adult Mental Health Peer Specialist Position Description (not in any of the 4 curriculums if taught outside WI) Safety (Personal and Practices)-knowledge of how to encourage safe environments, relationships and interactions for the Peer Specialist and others involved Person Centered Philosophy-knowledge of the Person Centered Planning Principals and the central role of the service participant

9 Page9 Skills are process and procedure, sometimes specific knowledge bases that Certified Peer Specialists use in their practice which facilitate more recovery- oriented services. SKILLS: Communication: ability to listen and to communicate clearly to others. Ability to communicate clearly in writing Ability to assess strengths and needs Ability to ask questions to get to know the person Ability to find resources Ability to identify people in crisis and make referrals Ability to advocate for others Ability to find information about mental health treatment options and alternatives Ability to use own history in useful way Ability to interact with people in a way that is trauma free Ability to recognize limitations and boundaries and ask for help/make referrals Ability to function as an employee (e.g. following personnel policies) Ability to advocate for others Note: Most, if not all, of the four (4) training programs add the Wisconsin specific information when the curriculum is taught IN WISCONSIN. Information that is listed as not being in the curriculums is based off the model s basic training manuals. (Curriculums were last review by WAPS in January 2012 and are currently being reviewed by the Peer Specialist Committee of the Recovery Implementation Task Force.) Funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, Medicaid Infrastructure Grant #93.768, Department of Health Services/Pathways to Independence

10 Page10 Wisconsin Certified Peer Specialist Code of Conduct For Mental Health and Mental Health/Substance Use Disorder Peer Delivered Services The following principles will guide Peer Specialists in their various role relationships and levels of responsibility in which they function professionally. 1. The primary responsibility of Peer Specialists is to help service recipients understand recovery and achieve their own recovery needs, wants, and goals. Peer Specialists will be guided by the principle of self-determination for each service recipient. 2. Peer Specialists will conduct themselves in a manner that fosters their own recovery and will maintain personal standards that are respectful to self and community. 3. Peer Specialists will be open to share with service recipients and coworkers their stories of hope and recovery and will likewise be able to identify and describe the supports that promote their recovery and resilience. 4. Peer Specialists have a duty to inform service recipients when first discussing confidentiality that contemplated or actual harm to self or others cannot be kept confidential. Peer Specialists have a duty to accurately inform service recipients regarding the degree to which information will be shared with other team members, based on their agency policy and job description. Peer Specialists have a duty to inform appropriate staff members immediately about any person s possible harm to self or others or abuse from caregivers. 5. Peer Specialists will never intimidate, threaten, harass, use undue influence, physical force or verbal abuse, or make unwarranted promises of benefits to the service recipients they support. 6. Peer Specialists will not practice, condone, facilitate or collaborate in any form of discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, race, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, marital status, political belief, disability, or any other preference or personal characteristic, condition or state. 7. Peer Specialists will advocate with service recipients so that individuals may make their own decisions in all matters when partnering with professionals. 8. Peer Specialists will never engage in any sexual/intimate activities with service recipients they support. While a service recipient is receiving services from a Peer Specialist, the Peer Specialist will not enter into a relationship or commitment that conflict with the support needs of the service recipient.

11 Page11 9. Peer Specialists shall only provide service and support within the hours, days and locations that are authorized by the agency with which they work. 10. Peer Specialists will keep current with emerging knowledge relevant to recovery, and openly share this knowledge with their coworkers and service recipients. Peer Specialists will refrain from sharing advice or opinions outside of their scope of practice with service recipients. 11. Peer Specialists will utilize supervision and abide by the standards for supervision established by their employer. The Peer Specialist will seek supervision to assist them in providing recovery oriented services to service recipients. 12. Peer Specialists will not accept gifts of money or items of significant value from those they serve. Peer Specialists do not loan or give money to service recipients. 13. Peer Specialists will not discuss their employment situation in a negative manner with any service recipient. 14. Peer Specialists will protect the welfare of all service recipients by ensuring that all their conduct will not constitute physical or psychological abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Peer Specialists will provide trauma informed care at all times. 15. Peer Specialists will, at all times, respect the rights, dignity, privacy and confidentiality of those they support. Funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, Medicaid Infrastructure Grant #93.768, Department of Health Services/Pathways to Independence

12 Page12 General Wisconsin Adult Mental Health Peer Specialist Position Description (This Job/ Position Description is to give an idea of some of the functions a Certified Peer Specialist. Tailoring would be necessary to fit the unique mission.) Title of Position: Certified Peer Specialist (Paid Evidence Based Practice Position) Job Summary: The Wisconsin Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) engages and engages and encourages mental health peers in recovery, and the CPS provides peers with a sense of belonging, supportive relationships, and valued roles. The goal is to promote wellness, selfdirection and recovery focus, enhancing the skill and ability of peers to meet their chosen goals. The CPS works with peers as equals. In some programs, the CPS must be supervised by a qualified mental health professional. Peer support must be the core of every task performed by the CSP. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Providing Support The Certified Peer Specialist will: Identify as a person in mental health recovery. Be mindful of the ethics, boundary, power and control issues unique to the CPS role. Establish healing relationships with peers. Assist peers to understand the purpose of peer support and recovery models. Provide peers with substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHA s) definition of recovery and its components. Intentionally share his/her Recovery Story as appropriate to assist peers, providing hope and help in changing patterns and behaviors. Create an environment of respect for peers which honors the person for taking charge of their own lives. Mutually establish boundaries with the peers. Revisit boundaries on an ongoing basis. Be trauma informed and explore with peers their experiences and support these in individuals in getting appropriate resources to help. Have and use his or her own recovery/wellness plan which also includes proactive crisis plans. Be able to assist service recipients with constructing their own Wellness Recovery Action Plans (W.R.A.P., or another recovery plan.) Encourage peers to construct their own recovery/wellness plans which also include proactive crisis plans.

13 Page13 Support peers in crisis to explore options that may be beneficial to returning to emotional wellness. Provide culturally sensitive and age appropriate services specific to each peer. Provide an environment of recovery, wellness, and hope. Encourage peers to become self-directed, focus on their strengths, exercise use of natural supports, develop their own recovery goals and strengthen valued roles within their community. Use active listening skills. Together research and locate resources that are beneficial to peers needs and desires. Communicating with Supervisors and Interacting with Staff Certified Peer Specialists will: Understand and utilize the established supervisory hierarchy to communicate needs, ask questions (especially about ethics, boundaries, and confidentiality), mention concerns, etc. Understand his or her role and fully participate as an integral part of the professional recovery team. Provide education to staff on that recovery is achievable, and that peer support is an Evidence Based Practice. Accurately, respectfully, punctually complete all required documentation. Work with peers and staff to develop healing and trauma free relationships.. Report all peers threats to harm self or others immediately to the appropriate person. Demonstrating Confidentiality Peer Specialists Certified Peer Specialists will: Be familiar with Wisconsin documents relating to confidentiality. Be very knowledgeable of all confidentiality directives from his or her own agency. Maintain the utmost confidence concerning all verbal and written information whether obtained from peers or otherwise. Be knowledgeable of information is not be kept in confidence: threats to harm self or others, and know how to handle these situations. PREFERRED TRAINING/SKILLS: Computer skills (internet, , Word) Group facilitation or co-facilitation experience

14 Page14 Knowledge of a variety of methods of creating wellness/recovery plans, and a variety of methods of teaching others to create their own plan. Basic knowledge of how to assist peers with locating community resources (i.e. employment, housing, health, peer delivered services). Work or volunteer experience providing peer support. Funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, Medicaid Infrastructure Grant #93.768, Department of Health Services/Pathways to Independence

15 Page15 WISCONSIN PEER SPECIALIST EXAM DOMAINS AND OBJECTIVES The Peer Specialist will know and practice these Domains and Objectives. The Wisconsin Certification Exam for Peer Specialists is based in these Domains and Objectives and how they correlate with the Competencies, Wisconsin Peer Specialist Code of Conduct and the General Wisconsin Peer Specialist Job Description. The Domains and Objectives are the blue print for the Certification exam. Development of these Domains and Objectives were funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, Medicaid Infrastructure Grant #93.768, Department of Health Services/Pathways to Independence by the Peer Specialist Committee of the Wisconsin Recovery Implementation Task Force. This section has been formatted so that each Domain and Objective has several subsections: 1) A description of the Domain and Objective, 2) The Competencies, Code and Job Description section which relate to that particular domain and 3) practice test questions that relate to the specific domain and objective. Question answers have been formulated based on #2 and training course materials. When reading the practice test questions, pay close attention to the specific wording as regards the questions and the three (3) state approved documents, as this is where many people miss choosing the correct answer on the exam. Do not read any inferred information into the question and do not remove any wording as it is important to look at exactly what is stated in the question. The Peer-Support Specialist will.. 1. SELF-KNOWLEDGE AND THE ROLE OF THE PEER SPECIALIST Use his or her own experience to inspire the consumer while supporting his or her own recovery Engage the consumer in a trauma-free way Recognize the consumer s strengths and personal challenges and emphasize building on the positive. CORE COMPETENCIES: Values: Have an outlook on life that inspires hope. Have the capacity to care/empathy. Personal Abilities: Is able to utilize own experience and translate this experience to others with mental illness and/or substance abuse issues Has self awareness and is able to use self to inspire others Is able to make good decisions/ be a good role model/exercise options Has self knowledge about own recovery and sets personal boundaries

16 Page16 Is patient and resilient Knowledge: Skills: Owns personal strengths and weak spots Role of Peer Support Specialist-as defined by the essential functions outlined in the General Wisconsin Peer Specialist Job/Position Description Ability to assess strengths and needs Ability to ask questions and get to know the person Ability to use own history in a useful way Ability to foster a relationship and engage them in their recovery Ability to interact with people in a way that is trauma free CODE OF CONDUCT: Peer Specialists will conduct themselves in a manner that fosters their own recovery and will maintain personal standards that are respectful to self and community. Peer Specialists will be open to share with service recipients and coworkers their stories of hope and recovery and will likewise be able to identify and describe the supports that promote their recovery and resilience. Peer specialists will protect the welfare of all service recipients by ensuring that all their conduct will not constitute physical or psychological abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Peer Specialists will provide trauma informed care at all times. GENERAL WISCONSIN ADULT MENTAL HEALTH CERTIFIED PEER SPECIALIST POSITION DESCRIPTION: Identify as a person in mental health recovery Establish healing relationships with peers Intentionally share their Recovery Story as appropriate to assist peers, providing hope and help in changing patterns and behaviors. Be trauma informed, and explore with service peers their experiences and support these individuals in getting appropriate resources to help. Work or volunteer experience providing peer support. SAMPLE QUESTIONS FOR DOMAIN, SELF KNOWLEDGE AND THE ROLE OF THE PEER SPECIALIST: QUESTION 1: The role of the Certified Peer Specialist assisting a peer is to: a) Tell their mental illness story in detail b) Engage the peer utilizing trauma informed care principles c) Make sure the peer is compliant with their treatment plan d) Instruct in what steps to take in order to recover

17 Page17 QUESTION 2: A Certified Peer Specialist should: a) Tell the peer which medications he/she should take b) Share only their Dark Days stories with the peer c) Inspire hope for Recovery by utilizing their Recovery Story d) Insist that the peer attend church for spirituality QUESTION 3: One universal key component of empathy is: a) Feeling sorry for someone b) Identifying with the persons situation, behavior or emotions c) Telling the person that they should not feel as badly as they do d) Telling the person you have been through exactly the same situation QUESTION 4: Which of the following is a benefit of self-disclosure? a) Promoting a sense of personal power and acting as a living testimony against stigma b) Worrying your co-workers more about possible future relapses c) Illicit pity from others d) Experiencing discrimination QUESTION 5: A Certified Peer Specialist must model: a) Perfection b) Recovery from addiction c) Religious fervency d) Self-awareness QUESTION 6: Mary has a learning disability, and has difficulty reading and comprehending written information. As her Certified Peer Specialist, you should: a) Never acknowledge that reading is a challenge for her b) Help her discover alternative ways to learn and communicate c) Not discuss her challenges with her, as she might become discouraged d) Communicate with her mostly through writing so that her reading skills will improve QUESTION 7: John is having trouble completing his goals in a timely manner. As his Certified Peer Specialist, you: a) Set firm deadlines for him b) Help him explore and learn time management skills c) Express your frustration and impatience tactfully d) Refuse to tolerate this behavior and take away privileges as a consequence

18 Page18 QUESTION 8: You arrive for your appointment with Sheila, a peer you assist and support, and she is extremely upset and having trouble focusing on your visit. Your initial approach would be to: a) Tell her that you cannot work with her when she is this upset and reset her appointment. b) Call the Crisis line and request a mobile crisis team. c) Inquire of Sheila what has happened that has her feeling as she does. d) Immediately call your supervisor. 2. ETHICS AND BOUNDARIES Understand and maintain confidentiality. Understand and maintain appropriate boundaries. Recognize when to seek guidance or consultation. CORE COMPETENCIES: Values: Have respect for confidentiality and all other consumer rights Personal Abilities: Can support own recovery while helping someone else Knowledge: Skills: Ethics, boundaries and healthy relationships Confidentiality-HIPPA Standards and client rights as determined by the WI Dept. of Health Services, Chapter 51 WI Statues, and WI Administrative Code DHF 94 and 92 Ability to recognize limitations and boundaries and ask for help/make referrals CODE OF CONDUCT: Peer Specialists will conduct themselves in a manner that fosters their own recovery and will maintain personal standards that are respectful of self and community. The primary responsibility of Peer Specialists is to help service recipients understand recovery and achieve their own recovery needs, wants, and goals. Peer Specialists will be guided by the principle of self-determination for reach service recipient. Peer Specialists have a duty to inform service recipients when first discussing confidentiality that contemplated or actual harm to self or others cannot be kept confidential. Peer Specialists have a duty to accurately inform service recipients regarding the degree to which information will be shared with other team members, based on their agency policy and job description. Peer Specialists have a duty to inform

19 Page19 appropriate staff members immediately about any person s possible harm to self or others or abuse from caregivers. Peer Specialists will never intimidate, threaten, harass, use undue influence, physical force or verbal abuse, or make unwarranted promises of benefits to the service recipients they support. Peer Specialists will never engage in any sexual/intimate activities with service recipients they support. While a service recipient is receiving services from a Peer Specialist, the Peer Specialist will not enter into a relationship or commitment that conflict with the support needs of the service recipient. Peer Specialists shall only provide service and support within the hours, days and locations that are authorized by the agency with which they work. Peer Specialists will not accept gifts of money or items of significant value from those they serve. Peer Specialists do not loan or give money to service recipients. GENERAL WISCONSIN ADULT MENTAL HEALTH DESCRIPTION: CERTIFIED PEER SPECIALIST POSITION Be mindful of the ethics, boundary, power and control issues unique to Peer Specialists Understand and utilize the established supervisory hierarchy to communicate needs, ask questions (especially about ethics, boundaries and confidentiality). Be familiar with Wisconsin documents relating to confidentiality. Be very knowledgeable of all directives from your own agency. Maintain the utmost confidentiality concerning all verbal and written information whether obtained from service recipients or otherwise. Be knowledgeable of information that should not be kept in confidence: threat of harm to self or others, and how to handle these situations. Safety (Personal and Practices) knowledge of how to encourage safe environments, relationships and interactions for the Peer Specialist and others involved SAMPLE QUESTIONS FOR DOMAIN, ETHICS & BOUNDARIES: QUESTION 9: Bruce, a Certified Peer Specialist, is receiving calls from Ann, a peer which he assists and supports, at 3:00 a.m. for the past week. Bruce should: a) Take the calls from Ann in case she is in crisis b) Ignore the calls and hope Ann will stop calling c) Talk to Ann about his work hours and when would be an appropriate time to call, reinforcing work and personal boundaries d) Express his anger to Ann about her phone calls QUESTION 10: According to the WI Certified Peer Specialist Core Competencies, a Certified Peer Specialist must NOT: a) Have in depth knowledge of recovery

20 Page20 b) Understand the impact of trauma in recovery c) Take the place of a clinical mental health professional d) Practice Person Centered Planning QUESTION 11: You have been working with Rita, a peer which you assist and support, to assist her in learn to budget and manage her finances to reach her goal of working toward financial independence and off the SSA Payee system. She shares that she has opened a checking account and was notified by her bank that she had overdrawn her account. She states that she immediately went down to the bank and corrected the overdraft. She requests that you not share the information with her team. As a Certified Peer Specialist you would: a) Immediately report this issue to her Case Manager b) Open a dialogue with Rita to explore how sharing her resiliency in dealing with this matter actually showed a growth in responsibility and movement toward her goal of financial independence and that this would be a positive experience to share with her team. c) Promise Rita that you will not discuss the matter with her team without a dialogue but include this matter in your progress notes. d) Tell Rita that keeping secrets like this is always a good thing to do when dealing with Service Providers. QUESTION 12: A peer, whom you assist and support as a Certified Peer Specialist, Ron, has requested that you work with a family member that is continually triggering him. As a Certified Peer Specialist, you would: a) Set up an appointment with Ron s family member and explore different communication styles that might benefit Ron and help the family member to avoid Ron s trigger. b) Make an appointment for Ron s family member with a clinician who is trained to provide clinical services to family members and/or relationship counseling. c) Explain to Ron that you cannot accommodate his request because your basic training did not cover the family education or relationships that would permit you to work with his family member, but that, if he is open to it, you would discuss this with your supervisor and see what services might be available in that area. d) Decline to work with the family member but offer no explanation to Ron. 3. CULTURAL AWARENESS Respect other cultures, races, religions and sexual orientations. CORE COMPETENCIES: Values:

21 Page21 Have a non-judgmental attitude Have respect for other cultures, sexual orientation, spiritual beliefs and family culture Personal abilities: Is flexible, open minded and tolerant Knowledge: Cultural Awareness-have a basic knowledge of diverse cultures and how they may impact individual values, choices and lifestyles. Ability to provide age appropriate services and supports CODE OF CONDUCT: Peer Specialists will conduct themselves in a manner that fosters their own recovery and will maintain personal standards that are respectful to self and community. Peer Specialists will not practice, condone, facilitate or collaborate in any form of discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, race, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, marital status, political belief, disability, or any other preference or personal characteristic, condition or state. GENERAL WISCONSIN DESCRIPTION: ADULT MENTAL HEALTH CERTFIEID PEER SPECIALIST POSITION Provide culturally sensitive and age specific services. Continue to increase knowledge in this area. SAMPLE QUESTIONS FOR DOMAIN, CULTURAL AWARENESS: QUESTION 13: As a Certified Peer Specialist, you are assigned to assist and support a peer from a culture that differs from your own. You should: a) Decline the assignment because you have nothing in common with her b) Meet the service recipient like you usually would and refuse to talk about culturally diverse issues c) Focus on recovery because culture has nothing to do with mental illness d) Be aware that there are cultural differences and be prepared to address them when they come up. QUESTION 14: Steve, a peer you assist and support, shares with you that he has only been showering once a week lately. You: a) Share with him that you, long ago, came to believe that Cleanliness is next to godliness b) Call him daily to remind him to shower c) Tell him how disappointed and appalled you are d) Respond non-judgmentally and help him to explore the importance of personal hygiene

22 Page22 QUESTION 15: If a provider breaches confidentiality, which of the following may occur: a) The provider may be charged with a misdemeanor b) The provider s job may be at risk and they may be fined c) The service recipient may be put at risk or harm d) All of the above QUESTION 16: A Certified Peer Specialist: a) Always peers they support and assist three or more options for service providers b) Adheres to one and only one philosophy on recovery c) Realizes that there is more than one path to recovery d) Practices only evidence-based practices recommended by SAMHSA and the American Psychiatric Association QUESTION 17: Marilyn refuses to attend the Recovery Center where another service recipient, Tasha, whose ethnicity is Muslim, goes because she has heard that they are all terrorists and she is afraid that Tasha might harm her because she is Christian. As a Certified Peer Specialist you would: a) Tell Marilyn that she should not attend the Recovery Center on days that Tasha is at the Center. b) Explore with Marilyn the cultural difference between them. c) Take Marilyn to McDonald s instead. d) All of the above. QUESTION 18: David, a Certified Peer Specialist in Dual Recovery, is having trouble making his appointments with the peers he assists and supports and completing his paperwork due to his disorder. David would: a) Tell his supervisor he has the flu and needs to take time off. b) Continue to work and do the best he can. c) Open a dialogue with his supervisor and request a reasonable accommodation of leave until he can manage his disorder. d) Quit. 4. ADVOCACY AND ABILITY TO LOCATE INFORMATION Have fundamental knowledge of the mental health and substance abuse system in Wisconsin. Have fundamental knowledge of mental health conditions, treatments, services, supports and consumer rights with an emphasis on age-appropriate services.

23 Page23 Know how to find information about entitlements, community resources, the mental health and substance abuse systems, mental health conditions, treatments, services, supports and consumer rights. Advocate for the service recipient. Educate the service recipient to be a self-advocate. CORE COMPETENCIES: Personal Abilities: Openness to learning and continuing education Knowledge: Skills: How to find information about a variety of community resources (addresses making referrals) Consumer rights-as defined in Wisconsin by a combination of patient rights, ADA standards and civil rights as afforded to all citizens Ability to find resources Ability to identify people in crisis and make referrals Ability to find information about mental health treatment options and alternatives Ability to advocate for others CODE OF CONDUCT: Peer Specialists will advocate with service recipients so that individuals may make their own decisions in all matters when partnering with professionals Peer Specialist will, at all times, respect the rights, dignity, privacy and confidentiality of those they support. GENERAL WISCONSIN ADULT MENTAL HEALTH CERTIFIED PEER SPECIALIST POSITION DESCRIPTION: Create an environment of respect for peers which honors the persons for taking charge of their own lives Encourage peers to become self-directed, focus on their strengths, exercise use of natural supports, develop their own recovery goals and strengthen valued roles within their community Together research and locate resources that are beneficial to peers needs and desires Understand and be able to explain the rights of the peers SAMPLE QUESTIONS FOR DOMAIN, ADVOCACY AND THE ABILITY TO LOCATE INFORMATION:

24 Page24 QUESTION 19: Sam, a Certified Peer Specialist, is dually diagnosed and a strong member of a 12 Step Support Group and thoroughly believes abstinence is the only answer for addiction. He is assisting and supporting Tim, who refuses to remain abstinent but has reduced his substance usage. Sam should: a) Point out to Tim that abstinence is the only solution to addiction b) Open a dialogue with his supervisor to better understand the concept of harm reduction c) Empty all of Tim s alcohol bottles d) Ask Tim s 12 Step sponsor to talk to him QUESTION 20: What is the program of mental health/substance use disorder services in Wisconsin that include Certified Peer Specialist services by statute? a) Community Recovery Services b) Comprehensive Community Services c) Community Support Program d) Family Care e) A & B QUESTION 21: The text that is used to determine psychiatric diagnosis is known as the: a) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual IV-TR b) Physician s Desk Reference c) Grey s Anatomy d) The Clinician s Desk Reference 5. TEAMWORK Work collaboratively and participate on a team. Listen and communicate clearly. Observe and recognize when to report behavioral changes. CORE COMPETENCIES: Personal Abilities: Skills: Is able to work collaboratively/participate on a team Communication: ability to listen and to communicate clearly to others. Ability to communicate clearly in writing. Ability to be a successful employee (e.g. following personnel policies)

25 Page25 CODE OF CONDUCT: Peer Specialists have a duty to inform appropriate staff members immediately about any person s possible harm to self or others or abuse from caregivers The Peer Specialist will utilize supervision and abide by the standards of supervision established by their employer. The Peer Specialist will seek supervision to assist them in providing recovery oriented services to service recipients. Peer Specialists will not discuss their employment situation in a negative manner with any service recipient. GENERAL WISCONSIN ADULT MENTAL HEALTH CERTIFIED PEER SPECIALIST JOB POSITION DESCRIPTION: Create an environment of respect for peers which honors the persons taking charge of their own lives Understands and utilize the established supervisory hierarchy to communicate needs, ask questions (especially about ethics, boundaries, and confidentiality) Provide education to staff on recovery is achievable and that peer support is an Evidence Based Practice Accurately, respectfully, punctually complete all required documentation Work with peers and staff to develop healing and trauma free relationships. Report all peers threats of harm self or others immediately to the appropriate person Computer skills (internet, , Word) SAMPLE QUESTIONS FOR DOMAIN, TEAMWORK: QUESTION 22: As Certified Peer Specialist, you are in a staff meeting and you feel that the comments the staff are making about the service recipients are insulting. As a member of the team you should: a) Refuse to participate and leave the meeting b) Openly express how the comments affect you as a mental health/substance use disorder peer and use this as a teachable moment c) Report them to their supervisor d) Go along with it to fit in

26 Page26 QUESTION 23: Georgia is complaining to you, as her Certified Peer Specialist, that her boss treated her unfairly and she wants to quit. You would: a) Help her define the main problem and help Georgia through the problem solving process b) Relate a specific incident in your current position as a Certified Peer Specialist where your supervisor treated you unfairly and show her how you resolved the issue c) Help her find another job d) None of the above. 6. CONSUMER CHOICE AND EMPOWERMENT Understand and practice person-centered planning that values informed choice by the service recipient. Believe in empowerment and that growth, change, and overcoming stigma are possible. Teach conflict resolution and problem-solving skills as a means to empowerment. CORE COMPETENCIES: Values: Believe in the importance of consumer-directed services Believe that growth and change are possible Value consumer choice Believe in empowerment Personal Abilities: Possesses problem-solving skills Can help people explore choices and consequences Is able to let people help themselves empower them Recognizes others strengths and challenges Knowledge: Stigma- knowledge of the impact of discrimination, marginalization and oppression that society places upon individuals with mental illnesses. Self-stigma is the defining of one s self by diagnosis, limitations and/or illness based perceptions. Person-Centered Planning knowledge of the Person Centered Planning Principles and the central role of the service participant CODE OF CONDUCT: Peer Specialists will be guided by the principle of self-determination for each service recipient

27 Page27 Peer Specialists will never intimidate, threaten, harass, use undue influence, physical force or verbal abuse, or make unwarranted promises of benefits to the service recipients they support. GENERAL WISCONSIN ADULT MENTAL HEALTH CERTFIED PEER SPECIALIST POSITION DESCRIPTION Create an environment of respect for peers which honors the persons for taking charge of their own lives Encourage peers to construct their own recovery/wellness plans which also include proactive crisis plans Support peers in crisis to explore options that may be beneficial to returning to emotional wellness Encourage peers to become self-directed, focus on their strengths, exercise us of natural supports, develop their own recovery goals and strengthen valued roles within their community Knowledge of a variety of methods of creating wellness/recovery plans, and a variety of methods of teaching others to create their own plan Use active listening skills Group facilitation experience SAMPLE QUESTIONS FOR DOMAIN, CONSUMER CHOICE AND EMPOWERMENT: QUESTION 24: You are assisting and supporting Andy who would like to leave the group home and live in his own apartment. You should: a) Give Andy the newspaper and help him look for apartments b) Assist Andy in developing a step-by-step plan and budget c) Tell him he is not ready to leave the group home d) Invite him to stay with you to see how he like apartment living Question 25: It is important that services be directed by the peer because: a) Professional providers are generally out of touch with the true needs of service recipients b) The peer will be empowered through the process c) Peers, once educated, always know better than their doctors d) Social workers are often too busy to adequately direct services for each client

28 Page28 QUESTION 26: Sandy, a peer you assist and support, sees Dr. Thompson, a psychiatrist. She feels that he doesn t listen to her about the side effects of her medication. You should: a) Call the psychiatrist and advocate for Sandy b) Tell Sandy that the psychiatrist knows best about her medication c) Assist and support Sandy in preparing for her appointment to discuss her medication challenges with her doctor, through different strategies, and if she request, offer to accompany her to her appointment for support d) Find Sandy a new psychiatrist. QUESTION 27: During a team meeting, Sarah s case manager states that Sarah has requested to see a different psychiatrist, and asks for feedback from the team. You: a) Recommend your own doctor to Sarah b) Insist that Sarah continue with her current psychiatrist c) Encourage the team to meet with Sandy to assist and support her finding another psychiatrist from which to choose d) Explain to the team that Sarah s judgment is too impaired at this time to understand how good her current doctor is QUESTION 28: Which of the following is not a part of empowerment? a) Realizing that you have options and choices b) Being able to self-advocate c) Learning what resources are available to help you achieve your goals d) Deciding you don t need anyone else s help QUESTION 29: A Certified Peer Specialist must be able to: a) Administer and report medication compliance b) Exercise options and make good decisions in his/her own recovery c) Drive a handicap accessible van to provide a recipient with transportation d) Teach meditation as coping skill QUESTION 30: Steps of problem-solving include which of the following? a) Stating the problem clearly b) Discussing short and long-term costs and benefits of possible solutions c) Taking action by selecting one or more ideas from the brainstorming list d) All of the above